Category: Ice Hockey

New York Rangers winger Artemi Panarin is currently the biggest name on the trade market. He’s been informed by the Rangers’ front office that they have no intention of re-signing him, and have given permission to him and his agent to seek out a team or teams they are comfortable with trading him to in order to facilitate a deal from there.

Panarin is 34 years old; his seven-year, $11.6 million contract carries a full no-move clause and will expire on July 1. He’s scored 57 points (19-38=57) in 52 games in 2025-26, and he’s on pace to tally his ninth consecutive season of scoring north of a point-per-game, indicating he has several productive seasons left in the tank.

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The Rangers have announced that they will scratch Panarin until at least the Feb. 4 Olympic roster freeze, alleviating the risk of injury. He’s only missed nine games in the last four seasons.

The Anaheim Ducks are reported to have “looked around” at the possibility of acquiring Panarin. On Thursday, multiple NHL insiders reported that Panarin and his agent, Paul Theofanous, are seeking out at least a four-year extension at a $10-12 million AAV with his new team as part of the potential trade, and they’ve reached out to Anaheim as a desired destination.

TSN and The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun reported on TSN’s “Early Trading” that Panarin’s representation has reached out to all three California teams, showing interest, but the Ducks are “out.”

“The Panarin camp has reached out to all three California teams (Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks),” LeBrun said. “With the Ducks, there’s the Joel Quenneville connection from their time together in Chicago. But, I’m told the Ducks are out right now, and I’m told the reason is the extension doesn’t make sense for them.

“They’ve got a lot of young core guys to sign here in the next year or two, and spending four years and $10-11 million, whatever you think the extension will end up at, doesn’t really make sense for Anaheim. So, I have Anaheim out.”

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman spoke on Panarin and the Ducks on Sportsnet’s “The Fan Hockey Show,” stating the Ducks would have rather traded for him without an extension in place.

“Panarin would like to have an extension as part of this. They’ve (Panarin and his agent) reached out to the Ducks. I think he was pretty interested. But I’ve heard Anaheim is not likely because the Ducks’ preference is not to do an extension right away,” Friedman said. “That they would like to see how the fit goes, potentially. That means it’s likely not going to happen there. That’s what I’ve heard as of last night (Jan. 28). And just a reminder, all of these things can kind of change.”

LeBrun reiterated his own report and echoed Friedman on TSN’s “Insider Trading” as well. As it stands, the Ducks are reported to be unwilling to extend Panarin, given the core talent they’ll have to resign in the summer of 2026 and beyond.

“(The trade) most likely involves teams that aren’t scared to sign a 34-year-old player to a four-year extension to perhaps a double-digit AAV,” LeBrun said on where the most likely landing spot is for Panarin. “That’s what we think the extension will be if this gets done. I’m told if the extension is paramount, the Ducks are out right now. They don’t want to sign that money to a veteran player when they’ve got young pieces to sign.”

The Ducks have over $27.2 million in current cap space and are projected to have over $39.2 million in cap space come July 1. Jacob Trouba, Ross Johnston, Radko Gudas, Ryan Poehling, Jansen Harkins, Petr Mrazek, and Jeffrey Viel will all become unrestricted free agents if they’re unsigned by July 1.

The most significant items on the agenda will be the next contracts of pending restricted free agents Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier, along with Ian Moore, Pavel Mintyukov, and Olen Zellweger, who will be restricted free agents along the blueline. Those contracts could eat up a sizable chunk of that projected cap space, reportedly enough to detract Ducks’ general manager Pat Verbeek from acquiring Panarin.

Among the most-mentioned teams involved in the Panarin trade rumors at the moment are the Washington Capitals, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks, and Carolina Hurricanes.

Verbeek has reportedly struggled to acquire a star or marquee talent on the free agent or trade markets during his time as Ducks GM. He was reportedly interested in Alex DeBrincat before he was traded to the Detroit Red Wings in the summer of 2023. On July 1, 2024, he reportedly offered then free agents Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault each more term and AAV than the contracts they eventually signed with the Nashville Predators.

It’s worth noting that an available star player (Panarin) now reportedly would prefer to play for Anaheim for the next four-plus seasons, and the Ducks are reportedly the ones uninterested. The New York Rangers are reportedly asking for a similar return that the New York Islanders received for center Brock Nelson at the 2025 trade deadline. Nelson was traded to the Colorado Avalanche for Calum Ritchie (an A-/B+ prospect) and a first-round pick. 

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The Winnipeg Jets have faced criticism in recent years for struggling to create opportunities for their young prospects, and that issue has resurfaced with one former first-round pick now openly expressing frustration with the organization.

Selected 20th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, Finnish defenseman Ville Heinola was once considered one of the Jets’ most promising prospects. However, as he approaches his 25th birthday in March, Heinola has yet to establish himself at the NHL level. He has appeared in just 53 NHL games, recording one goal and 11 assists for 12 points.

This season, Heinola has spent the majority of his time with the Manitoba Moose of the AHL, where he has posted 18 points in 38 games. Despite several injury-related openings on the Jets’ blue line at different points during the season, Heinola has not received an NHL call-up.

Heinola recently spoke candidly about his situation in an interview with Finnish outlet Ilta-Sanomat, voicing frustration over what he believes has been a lack of opportunity.

“What annoys me the most is that I don't think I've ever had a decent chance in the NHL after my first year,” Heinola said. “I feel like I'm stuck here.”

The defenseman made it clear that remaining in the AHL is not his long-term goal, even though he believes his relationship with the organization remains professional.

Ville Heinola was the first to find the back of the net for the Moose last night. Who will it be tonight?

First Goal Predictor delivered by SKIP is open! Play now to be entered to win a $250 giftcard from @SkipTheDishes

Place your guess ➡️ https://t.co/A6BNvctPGYpic.twitter.com/WyohRqG5xg

— Manitoba Moose (@ManitobaMoose) April 3, 2024

“There's no other way to do this than to play so well that they have no choice but to promote me to the NHL,” Heinola explained. “I think I've been on good terms with everyone. I haven't heard anyone say anything bad about me.”

Heinola added that both he and his agent have consistently tried to work cooperatively with the Jets, but the situation has grown more frustrating as other players receive opportunities ahead of him.

“My game has been going well lately, but there are guys from next door who are making it to the NHL,” Heinola said. “So far, however, I haven't been ready to give up on the NHL dream. I feel and know that I can play there.”

Heinola’s name has surfaced in trade discussions in the past, though no deal has materialized. Earlier this season, the Jets placed him on waivers, a move that did not result in another team claiming him.

Walker Duehr tied the game late, and #NHLJets 2019 first-round pick Ville Heinola scored the lone goal in the fourth round of the shootout to secure a 3-2 win for the #MBMoose.#NHLJetsNationpic.twitter.com/8AKbwtzczy

— Evan Waldner (@evanwaldner31) January 11, 2026

“Still, it was a big disappointment that no club picked me up,” Heinola said. “And if that opportunity hasn't come here, why couldn't the club have let me go somewhere else, where I might have had a chance?”

The repeated setbacks have taken a mental toll on the young defenseman, who acknowledged that recent months have been especially challenging.

“This has been by far the most mentally difficult period of my career,” Heinola said.

As the season continues, it remains unclear what the future holds for Heinola. Whether he remains with the Jets, is moved via trade, or eventually finds a fresh start elsewhere is still to be determined. What is clear, however, is that Jets management now finds itself dealing with a once-promising prospect who is growing increasingly frustrated and disgruntled. 

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The Detroit Red Wings are dealing with an injury to their second-best defenseman, Simon Edvinsson, who was hurt earlier this month during Detroit's 2-1 overtime victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

The Red Wings have since announced that not only is he not going to play until at least after the Olympic breaks in late February, but that he's now been placed on Injured Reserve. 

Additionally, head coach Todd McLellan said the flu is making its way through the dressing room.

In Edvinsson's absence, the Red Wings have sought reinforcements from the Grand Rapids Griffins. 

Earlier on Thursday, the club announced that defenseman Justin Holl and forward Sheldon Dries have been summoned from Grand Rapids.

UPDATE: The #RedWings have recalled Justin Holl and Sheldon Dries from the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins.

Additionally, Simon Edvinsson has been placed on Injured Reserve. pic.twitter.com/sbYd26Dsoq

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) January 29, 2026

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Holl, who is skating in the final season of his three-year deal, has yet to appear in an NHL game with the Red Wings this season. He has tallied two goals and eight assists in 31 games with the Griffins thus far.

Dries, a Macomb, Mich., native and former Western Michigan University Bronco, has also yet to skate with Detroit this season. He has recorded 14 goals and 14 assists in 32 games with the Griffins.

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Flyers' spiral continues to grow in concern with 10th loss over last 12 games originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

What more can the Flyers say?

They seem to have very few answers for this troubling — perhaps defining — stretch of their 2025-26 season. They stumbled to the Bruins, 6-3, Thursday night at TD Garden.

Travis Konecny, Nikita Grebenkin and Matvei Michkov provided the team’s goals. The Flyers were down 3-0 when Konecny scored, 5-1 when Grebenkin got on the board and 6-2 when Michkov put one home on the power play.

After upending the juggernaut Avalanche, 7-3, last Friday night, the Flyers (24-20-9) have lost three straight by a combined score of 15-6. They’ve dropped 10 of their last 12 games (2-8-2) and have allowed 4.58 goals per game over that span.

Rick Tocchet’s club has given up four or more goals nine times this month.

The Bruins (32-20-3) are trending in a totally different direction, having won 10 of their last 12 games (10-1-1). This was the first of three meetings this season between the Flyers and Boston.

• The Flyers are in a real precarious spot.

This maybe wasn’t a playoff-or-bust season, but the Flyers wanted to get better. And part of getting better should be avoiding these lengthy stretches of head-scratching play, these lopsided, uncompetitive games.

The Flyers made it clear before the season that they did not want to be in selling mode unless they had to be. They showed that with a five-year commitment to Christian Dvorak earlier this month.

While the Flyers weren’t going to be a major buyer at the March 6 trade deadline, you have to wonder what their motives will be if they can’t stop this slide.

The Flyers entered Thursday with a 21.1 percent chance to make the playoffs, according to Hockey-Reference.com’s probabilities report. They’re in seventh place of a tight Metropolitan Division.

• Samuel Ersson registered 15 saves on 20 shots through two periods of work.

He didn’t return to the game for the third period because of a lower-body injury. The 26-year-old was making his eighth appearance in the last nine games.

Dan Vladar turned away the six shots he faced in relief. The Bruins’ final goal was an empty-netter.

Boston netminder Jeremy Swayman stopped 33 of the Flyers’ 36 shots.

The Flyers were dealt a blow when Dvorak had a first-period goal wiped away because of goaltender interference on Grebenkin. It was a tough call on Grebenkin, who was making a play toward the net and created a rebound opportunity for Dvorak.

The goal would have cut the Flyers’ deficit to 2-1. Instead, the Flyers trailed by two at intermission.

The Bruins struck just 2:27 minutes into the second period on a Fraser Minten shot that Ersson could have denied. At that point, the Flyers, already fighting their confidence, were behind 3-0, which felt insurmountable.

• The struggling Sean Couturier centered Nicolas Deslauriers and Garnet Hathaway on the fourth line.

The Flyers’ captain has gone 26 straight games without a goal. He has nine assists and a minus-9 mark over that time. Couturier had four shots in 13:57 minutes Thursday night.

Tocchet clearly had to try some adjustments up front, especially with Couturier not producing offensively. Trevor Zegras was moved to the middle as Lane Pederson came out of the lineup.

Zegras, though, had no shots and went 1 for 12 in the faceoff circle.

• The Flyers got good news before the start of the game as Rasmus Ristolainen was able to play. The 31-year-old defenseman had to exit Wednesday night with a lower-body injury after just 1:01 minutes of ice time.

Against Boston, Ristolainen finished with 21:53 minutes.

Emil Andrae was healthy scratched for a second straight game.

• The Flyers are back in action Saturday when they host the Kings (12:30 p.m. ET/NBCSP).

In defeating the Vegas Golden Knights and Colorado Avalanche, 7-1 and 5-2, respectively, the Ottawa Senators did more than just collect four regulation points against two of the top four teams in the Western Conference. They served notice to their fanbase that reports of their imminent demise were greatly exaggerated.

After the late-game collapse against the Predators in Nashville and the subsequent home ice loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, last rites were being read by many self-ordained experts.

This is not to suggest the Senators don’t have their work cut out for them to qualify for the playoffs, but the convincing nature of these victories was compelling. The Senators statistically and analytically dominated these highly-touted opponents.

But to make the playoffs, they'll probably need to at least match their total of 97 from last season.

So, what has to happen?

1) LINUS ULLMARK HAS TO HAPPEN

We were all moved by Ullmark’s interview with Claire Hanna, where he shared the true reasons for needing to step away from the team.

Without putting any undue pressure on someone who clearly carries the weight of the world right now, for this season to tip in the Senators’ favour, Ullmark needs to take off his baseball cap and put his mask back on.

James Reimer has more than adequately acquitted himself since joining the fold and it was encouraging to see Mads Sogaard’s performance against the Golden Knights. Even Leevi Merilainen has delivered victories, and by the way, looked great in both of his AHL starts in Belleville.

That said, there are only so many Hamburglar runs to be had, and the Senators have used theirs.

Without Ullmark back in the crease, performing to his capabilities, this becomes a short conversation.

2) DIVISIONAL DOMINANCE

Of the 58 remaining points to be had, 20 are available against divisional opponents. They currently own a 5-4-3 record against the Atlantic division to date, or 13 of a possible 24 points.

This won’t cut it the rest of the way.

These games are split evenly between home and away and they own a 13-10-4 record at home and 12-11-3 record on the road.

It's hard to see any advantage in the schedule, so the Senators will simply have to become, be it at home or on the road, what they have failed to be all season: Consistent.

Ideally, the Senators need 15-17 of the 20 points on the table in these games and obviously, three-point games need to be minimized.

It's definitely a tall order, but if the Buffalo Sabres can extricate themselves from last in the conference to a top-three spot in the division by winning 15 of 17, it’s proven to be possible.

15 of 20 points leaves 19 games to get a minimum of 25 points.

3) ROAD WARRIORS

After they play the Devils on Saturday, the Senators will play eight of their next nine on the road and won’t be back at CTC until February 26th. The season hinges on using this time away to simplify their game, build on the momentum of the last two games, and re-integrate Ullmark into the rotation.

Though the starter against the Devils remains to be determined, it seems safer to have Ullmark return to the crease on the road, where there are fewer distractions.

In the next 10 games, only two of them are against divisional opponents. Four of them will be Western opponents, where the three-point games won’t be an issue.

In fact, only the Philadelphia Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs are among the teams they are in competition with for the wildcard spots where three-point games will be something to avoid.

For the 16 road points available to them between now and February 26th, a minimum of 10 and ideally 12 or more would be required.

Earning 10 out of 16 road points leaves the Senators with 25 of the minimum 40 points with 11 games remaining to deliver the other 15.

4) OUTSIDE HELP

The Ottawa Senators do not control their own destiny at this point, so there will be scoreboard watching.

Let’s assume for a moment that they get to 97 points, where they were last year. That is the minimum they will need.

Not only do they need to get there and avoid three-point games against playoff rivals, but they also need to hope that those same rivals lose or win in regulation whenever possible.

Since scoreboard-watching has been happening since before the Christmas break, three-point games have not been unusual, and this is particularly true against division rivals.

If this continues to be the case late in the season, the Senators may need to consider pulling the goalie late in tie games against teams they're trying to catch.

5) HEALTH

Injuries and absences cannot be blamed for the predicament the Senators find themselves in today, but they do need to stay relatively healthy down the stretch. Brady Tkachuk, Jake Sanderson, Tim Stutzle and Lars Eller are going to Milan in February, and it would be great if the Senators got them back in the same condition they left in.

The Senators will finish the regular season on April 15th at home against the Maple Leafs. It would be nice to think that the game might mean something, potentially determining playoff fates.

But there's a lot of high-quality Senators hockey (and some good luck) that will need to happen between now and then.

Pat Maguire
The Hockey News Ottawa

'I Don’t Want to Move’: Pending UFA Nick Cousins Would Love To Be Back In Ottawa Next SeasonIf the season completely gets away from the Senators, pending UFA Nick Cousins could be a potential trade chip. But Cousins, who was the first star on Wednesday, told The Hockey News this week that he and his family love it here.

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The Buffalo Sabres held an optional morning skate at KeyBank Center on Thursday prior to their match against the Los Angeles Kings. The Sabres are coming off a successful road trip, going 4-1 with wins over Nashville, Montreal, the NY Islanders and a 7-4 victory in Toronto on Tuesday. 

In the game, goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen left the game in the first period after allowing a goal to the Leafs Auston Matthews, and did not practice on Monday, as he was being examined by the club’s medical staff. On Tuesday, head coach Lindy Ruff indicated that the Sabres netminder will miss some time with a lower-body injury, which could affect his status for the upcoming Olympics. 

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"He's gonna miss a little bit of time. I'd say right now, we're looking at a week and then see where he's at." Ruff said. "We really haven't talked about (the Olympics) yet. We don't want to rule it out. Let's just see where we get by early next week."

Alex Lyon is expected to start against the Kings, and will be going for a club-record 10th consecutive victory. Ruff also updated the status of Jordan Greenway, who missed three of the five road games with mid-body issues that have plagued him since last season. Greenway has struggled this season, with just one goal in 33 games. The big winger skated on Thursday, but is still being re-evaluated for the injury that is clearly affecting his play.  

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SEATTLE — The Toronto Maple Leafs are hopeful that William Nylander can return to the lineup for Saturday’s game against the Vancouver Canucks. Although Nylander participated in a full morning skate ahead of Thursday's matchup with the Seattle Kraken, the team's top scorer will remain out of the lineup, marking his seventh consecutive missed game due to a groin injury.

“He’s close,” Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said following the session, noting that the forward is “potentially” an option for the visit to Vancouver.

#Leafs lines during morning skate Jan. 29/26

McMann-Matthews-Domi
Maccelli-Tavares-Knies
Robertson-Roy-Jarnkrok
Lorentz-Laughton-Cowan
Extra: Nylander, Quillan

Rielly-Carlo
McCabe-OEL
Benoit-Stecher
Extra: Rifai, Myers

Stolarz
Woll@BodogCApic.twitter.com/k85PHBeBZE

— David Alter (@davidalter) January 29, 2026

The skate represented Nylander’s first full session since aggravating his injury during the club’s 6-5 overtime loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Jan. 15. Having already missed six games earlier in the season due to the same ailment, his total time on the sidelines due to the ailment has reached 13 games. Given that the team's medical management has become a recent topic of discussion, Berube addressed how the return will be handled.

“Well, it's a tandem with the trainers and everyone we communicate with,” Berube explained. “Willie wanted to get a real good push today out here and do some extra skating. Hopefully, he's ready to go next game”.

The timing is critical for Toronto. After a winless 0-4-1 homestand, the Maple Leafs are beginning a four-game Western road trip starting Thursday in Seattle. Currently sitting last in the Atlantic Division, the team is in desperate need of points; being without their primary offensive engine makes that climb significantly harder.

Leafs getting ready for a full morning skate shortly. William Nylander set to take part. ⁦@BodogCA⁩ pic.twitter.com/vr9k9IuuYS

— David Alter (@davidalter) January 29, 2026

While Berube has asserted that the club’s primary issues involve defensive play rather than scoring, the Leafs clearly lack Nylander’s game-breaking ability. In the four games he played between stints on the injured reserve, Nylander recorded three goals and four assists. This included a goal and an assist in just over two minutes of ice time against Vegas before he was forced to exit.

Maple Leafs Reveal Groin Injury For William Nylander, Could He Miss The Olympics?With Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube revealing that William Nylander is sidelined by a recurring groin injury, the focus now shifts to whether the superstar can recover in time for the upcoming Olympic Games.

Nylander’s absence has also impacted the team's depth, often turning the Leafs into a one-line threat that is easier for opponents to check. Without him, the coaching staff has utilized Matias Maccelli and Matthew Knies on the second-line wings alongside John Tavares. Auston Matthews has mostly become a lone focal point, skating with Bobby McMann and Max Domi, a trio that has been tasked with the majority of difficult defensive matchups.

Maple Leafs' William Nylander Apologies For Middle Finger Gesture, Hopes To Return From Groin Injury During Upcoming Road TripNylander flipped the middle finger at a camera during the TSN broadcast of the Toronto Maple Leafs' 4-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday.

The winger's health remains a focal point not just for the NHL season, but for international play, as Nylander is expected to be a cornerstone of Sweden’s contingent at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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The Detroit Red Wings have one of the deepest prospect pools in the National Hockey League, thanks to the diligent work of general manager Steve Yzerman since his arrival in April 2019. 

A handful of those prospects have either already become full-time NHL players, or otherwise gained multiple games of NHL experience so far this season. 

The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is now just over one month away, though there will be a trade "freeze" in effect from Feb. 4 through the 22nd to accommodate the Winter Olympics break. 

As the trade deadline approaches, the Red Wings have been identified by multiple notable insiders as a team that could be active buyers this year, a shift from recent seasons.

While Yzerman has been reluctant to part with young, draft-developed talent that has yet to establish itself at the NHL level, there is growing potential for that approach to change this season.

During a recent Grand Rapids Griffins game, there were reportedly multiple scouts from multiple NHL clubs on hand. 

NHL teams with representatives in attendance at tonight’s Grand Rapids Griffins game

Jets
Ducks
Flyers
Islanders
Canucks
Kings
Sharks
Lightning
Devils
Senators#GoGRG#LGRW

— Hockeytown West Podcast (@HockeytownWpod) January 29, 2026

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

To get, one must give. Acquiring an established NHL player who can boost the roster may require parting with a young prospect currently playing for the Griffins.

Among the players who were recently linked to the Red Wings by The Athletic are forwards Jake DeBrusk and Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks, defenseman Logan Stanley of the Winnipeg Jets, and defenseman Mario Ferraro of the San Jose Sharks. 

Meanwhile, the Jets have reportedly been exploring a move involving right-shot defenseman Luke Schenn, who is playing on an expiring contract.

If the Red Wings can maintain their favorable position in the Atlantic Division by the time the calendar flips to March, this could be the first season in recent memory in which they approach the Trade Deadline with a buyer's mentality. 

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The Pittsburgh Penguins will play their first game at PPG Paints Arena since Jan. 17 on Thursday night. 

The Penguins will try to make it five wins in a row when the Chicago Blackhawks come to town. This will be the second of two meetings between the two teams this year, following the Penguins' 7-3 win in Chicago on Dec. 28. 

It was the Penguins' first game after the Christmas break, and it put them on the right track, as they've won 11 of their last 15 games. This hot streak has landed them in second place in the Metropolitan Division, but they still have to keep stacking wins if they want to make the playoffs.

They'll play a Blackhawks team that has lost three in a row and six of its last eight games. Connor Bedard is back after missing the last matchup between these two teams and is having a tremendous season, compiling 20 goals and 49 points in 40 games. 

Frank Nazar will be on the top line with him and has six goals and 21 points in 37 games this year. Tyler Bertuzzi leads the team with goals (25) and has 39 points in 50 games. Andre Burakovsky, Teuvo Teravainen, Ryan Donato, and Ilya Mikheyev have also scored double-digit goals this year.

Arvid Soderblom will start in goal for the Blackhawks. He has a 5-8-2 record with a 3.75 goals-against average and an .874 save percentage this year. 

The Penguins have tweaked their lineup due to Bryan Rust's three-game suspension and Jack St. Ivany's long-term hand injury. Here's a look at the projected lines for Thursday's game: 

Forwards

Rakell-Crosby-Brazeau

Chinakhov-Novak-Malkin

McGroarty-Kindel-Mantha

Dewar-Lizotte-Acciari

Defensive pairs

Wotherspoon-Karlsson

Kulak-Letang

Solovyov-Shea

Arturs Silovs will start in goal after he was Stuart Skinner's backup on Sunday. 

Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. ET on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Fans can also listen to the game on 105.9 'The X.'

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The Philadelphia Flyers arrived in Columbus hoping to reset the tone after a flat loss to the Islanders. Instead, they left with another reminder of how narrow their margin for error has become, and how dependent they are right now on individual brilliance to keep games from slipping away entirely.

A 5–3 loss to the Blue Jackets followed an unfortunately familiar script: moments of real push driven by Travis Konecny and Dan Vladar, followed by late unraveling when execution and collective detail fell apart.

1. Travis Konecny Put the Offense on His Back.

There are nights when a single player tilts the ice, and this was one of them.

Travis Konecny scored his third career hat trick, giving the Flyers all three of their goals and, at one point, erasing deficits entirely to pull the game level at 3–3. He now has 20 goals on the season, leads the team with 48 points, and continues to operate at a level that feels increasingly detached from the rest of the lineup. Since Jan. 17, only Montreal Canadiens star Cole Caufield has scored more goals league-wide.

Have a DAY, TK. 🧢🧢🧢#PHIvsCBJ | #LetsGoFlyerspic.twitter.com/AxVR7TzMNX

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) January 29, 2026

But the significance of Konecny’s night wasn’t just the goals themselves. It was the contrast. Each time Columbus grabbed momentum, it was Konecny who manufactured an answer. He was attacking directly, capitalizing on defensive lapses, and forcing the Flyers back into a game that was drifting away from them. Without him, this contest never becomes competitive.

The problem, though, is what happened after he did his job. The rest of the Flyers' offense didn’t build off his goals. They didn’t push Columbus onto its heels for sustained stretches. Konecny kept pulling them back from the edge, but no one else grabbed the rope with him. When the game turned late in the third period, there was no second wave.

That imbalance—one elite driver, too little reinforcement—is becoming a defining issue.

2. Dan Vladar’s Return Deserved a Better Team Effort.

Dan Vladar hadn’t played in two weeks, returning from injured reserve into a difficult situation against a fast, opportunistic Blue Jackets team. He gave the Flyers exactly what they needed to stay alive. Vladar made some truly mind-blowing stops, weathered early pressure, and allowed the Flyers the chance to claw back into the game despite extended stretches where Columbus controlled play.

All the stick taps for Vladdy. 😤#PHIvsCBJ | #LetsGoFlyerspic.twitter.com/TJ62PKiYYv

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) January 29, 2026

Like Konecny, Vladar was doing damage control. He wasn’t perfect, but he gave Philadelphia a chance to win. That’s all you can ask of a goaltender coming off injury and stepping back into the crease.

To be fair, the Flyers were cut down to five defensemen after Rasmus Ristolainen, who had only recently returned from IR himself, left the game early with a lower-body injury. From a sheer numbers perspective, that limits how evenly defensive responsibilities can be distributed, and removes a physical, defensive-defenseman aspect from the Flyers' backline. 

And what followed late was not a goalie failure. Defensive gaps widened, puck management deteriorated, and the Flyers lost track of layers in front of their own net. When Columbus struck twice late in the third to break the tie (including an empty-net goal), it felt like in a movie gun duel, where the last two bullets are emptied into an already keeled-over opponent just to make sure they're dead.

3. The Flyers’ Offense Beyond Konecny Leaves Something to Be Desired.

On paper, the Flyers produced enough secondary contributions to suggest balance. Christian Dvorak registered two assists, while Cam York, Jamie Drysdale, Travis Sanheim, and Noah Juulsen all chipped in helpers as well, continuing a trend of defensemen moving pucks efficiently and generating offense from the back end.

However, much of that production came in moments tied directly to Konecny’s scoring plays. The broader issue was how little sustained pressure the Flyers generated at five-on-five when he wasn’t on the ice. Too often, offensive-zone time ended with low-percentage shots or turnovers. Too few forwards were consistently winning inside space or forcing Columbus’ defense into extended sequences.

The Flyers are not lacking ideas. They are lacking execution and pace. That gap has been especially noticeable since the midpoint of the season, as fatigue accumulates. When Konecny leaves the ice, the offense frequently loses its edge and urgency, becoming easier to defend and easier to reset against.

4. Late-Game Structure Continues to Be a Problem.

The Flyers did the hardest part of the night: they erased deficits and tied the game in the third period. What followed was the part that continues to elude them—closing games with composure.

After Konecny’s third goal made it 3–3, the Flyers didn’t settle into a defensive posture designed to force overtime. Instead, their decision-making sped up in the wrong ways, and coverage assignments broke down. Columbus capitalized not with brilliance, but with execution.

This has become a real thorn in the Flyers' side. Whether chasing games or protecting ties, the Flyers have struggled to manage the final minutes with consistency. Discipline, structure, and puck support erode just enough to swing outcomes. It’s not a collapse every night, but it’s enough to cost them precious points.

5. Competitive Efforts Aren't Enough Anymore.

There was no shortage of effort from Konecny. Vladar battled. Several defensemen moved the puck well and logged responsible minutes. But effort alone doesn’t offset disconnection. Too many Flyers looked passive, reacting to momentum instead of shaping it.

The space they’re stuck in right now is competitive, but fragile. Dangerous, but dependent. Until more players consistently assert themselves—especially late—the Flyers will continue to live on narrow edges, where even heroic performances can’t prevent familiar endings.

The Flyers are now seven points out of a playoff spot in the Metropolitan Division, and if they want any fighting chance of actually securing a postseason, they're going to have to majorly and consistently step up to the plate and start connecting.

Given RW and ROW?@NHLFlyers are now 7 points out of the playoffs.

96pts is the 50:50 to make it mark.

That is 17-8-5 in their final 30 games.

.650 pt%. So basically they have to be a top 5 team in the @nhl from here to have a chance to make the playoffs.#Flyers#NHL

— Alexander Appleyard (@avappleyard) January 29, 2026

It's not an impossible ask given what we've seen this team be capable of, but right now, an appropriate metaphor for the Flyers is that they're stuck in quicksand. If they want to get out, they can't thrash around in a frenzied panic, but instead must still themselves, shed the heavy items weighing them down, and distribute their weight evenly to create a supportive surface. From there, they have to grasp a firmer surface and make small, deliberate movements to get out of it. 

Stay calm. Make an effort to drop the bad habits that have allowed games to slip away. Distribute responsibilities more evenly. Hold on to the things they're doing right, and prioritize the small details that make the difference in games. 

The quicksand itself doesn't kill you—it's the succumbing to exhaustion and exposure that will do you in if you don't pull yourself out in time.

Last season the Washington Capitals surprised everyone by dominating the league, with multiple players having career breakouts and the team finishing far ahead in the standings. They ended the season with a 51-22-9 record, the second-best in the NHL. This year however, the Capitals have struggled and currently sit outside the playoff picture with a 25-22-7 record.

Meanwhile the Detroit Red Wings have taken the spotlight, performing in ways similar to Washington’s dominant season but with a younger roster that seems better positioned for long-term success. Despite their struggles Washington has still managed impressive wins against teams like the Carolina Hurricanes, Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota Wild, and Tampa Bay Lightning, showing they cannot be underestimated.

Detroit could have a historic night with Patrick Kane just one point away from breaking Mike Modano’s record for most points by an American-born player. The Red Wings have been scraping by recently, winning only two regulation games in their last eight outings, while Washington has struggled with a 7-13-4 record over their last 24 games.

Detroit’s offense relies on both their top-six and contributions from the bottom lines, including James van Riemsdyk and other supporting forwards. Washington counters with Alex Ovechkin still scoring at a high level, Dylan Strome showing flashes, and Tom Wilson and rookie Justin Sourdif emerging as key offensive threats. The goaltending matchup will be marquee has John Gibson for Detroit will clash with Logan Thompson expected for Washington, each with solid but differing season performances against their opponent.

Red Hot Red Wings Clash With Ice Cold Capitals in High Stakes ClashA surprising young Detroit squad faces a struggling Washington team. History looms as Patrick Kane chases a scoring record.

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

Detroit Red Wings’ Expected Line Combinations vs Minnesota (Thursday)

Kasper – Larkin – Raymond

DeBrincat – Copp – Kane

Finnie – Compher – van Riemsdyk

Soderblom – Rasmussen – Appleton

Benard-Docker – Seider

Sandin-Pellikka - Chiarot

Johansson – Hamonic

Gibson

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The Chicago Blackhawks are coming off a tough loss to the Minnesota Wild. After leading 3-0, the Hawks allowed the Wild to chip away, tie the game, and win it in a shootout. They didn’t play horribly, but they were unable to lock things down in the end and win. 

Now, their mini-road trip continues with a visit to eastern Pennsylvania to play the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins come in at a pleasantly surprising 26-14-11, while the Blackhawks are 21-23-9.

This will be the second and final meeting between the two clubs this season. The first was a 7-3 win for the Penguins on December 28th at the United Center. 

Scouting Pittsburgh 

The Pittsburgh Penguins are having a great season, when many thought they’d be a lottery team. There is a solid mix of veterans and young players, but some of their veterans aren't like others around the league. 

Rakell-Crosby-Brazeau

Chinakhov-Novak-Malkin

McGroarty-Kindel-Mantha

Dewar-Lizotte-Acciari

Wotherspoon-Karlsson

Kulak-Letang

Solovyov-Shea

Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Erik Karlsson, and Kristopher Letang are all-time great players who will all be first-ballot Hall of Famers. 

In the case of Crosby, he is one of the five best hockey players ever to play the game, and he is still at the height of his powers in his late 30s. When the Olympics come around in a couple of weeks, he will be the captain of Team Canada in their pursuit of Gold. 

Malkin is having an incredible season and is on a point per game pace once again as well. He doesn't move like he once did, but there is no denying his scoring prowess as he's found a way to be successful without the legs that he had in his 20s. Being smart, having a good shot, and knowing where to be at even strength and on the power play are big parts of his game. 

Letang and Karlsson don't play together as defense partners, which spreads the wealth on the back end for them. It isn't as strong a group as it was when they were winning Stanley Cups in the 2010s, but they can move the puck well and shut down their opposition enough to win more than they lose. 

Arturs Silovs will start in goal for the Penguins. They acquired Stuart Skinner from the Edmonton Oilers earlier in the year, but Silovs will be the guy for this match against the Blackhawks. 

Projected Lines, Defense Pairs, & Goalie For Chicago

The Chicago Blackhawks are on the moms/mentors trip, so they are trying to get everyone involved as much as they can. Colton Dach is going to suit up for Chicago in place of Landon Slaggert, which is the only change to the skater lineup. Sam Lafferty remains a healthy scratch. 

Nazar-Bedard-Teravainen

Greene-Moore-Burakovsky

Bertuzzi-Dickinson-Mikheyev

Donato-Foligno-Dach

Vlasic-Crevier

Kaiser-Levshunov

Grzelcyk-Murphy

Connor Bedard, who grew up idolizing Sidney Crosby, will stick with his new line alongside Frank Nazar and Teuvo Teravainen. They were fantastic against the Wild and are looking to pick up more steam against this Penguins team that may allow some chances. 

In goal will be Arvid Soderblom, which sets up Spencer Knight for the second half of a back-to-back on Friday against the Columbus Blue Jackets at the United Center. Last time out, a shootout loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, Soderblom was on his game. An opportunity to start against Pittsburgh is another shot to keep the confidence up. 

Patrick Kane Update

Earlier in the week, former Blackhawks superstar Patrick Kane tied Mike Modano for the most points by an American-born player in the history of the NHL. 

Blackhawks Legend Patrick Kane Ties Mike Modano For Most Points By An American Chicago Blackhawks legend Patrick Kane is very close to cementing himself as the highest-scoring American-born NHL player of all time.

While the Blackhawks are taking on the Penguins in Pittsburgh, the Detroit Red Wings will be hosting the Washington Capitals. This is Kane's first chance to break the record.

How To Watch

The Blackhawks vs Penguins game can be heard locally on AM 720 WGN in the Chicagoland area. To view this game, it can be found on CHSN locally. Nationally, it can be found on ESPN+. The puck will drop shortly after 6:00 PM CT. 

Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay updated on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.

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The Edmonton Oilers will face the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night, but this will be a far different test than the matchup against the Anaheim Ducks from Tuesday. Two similar up-and-coming teams that appear to be the next great franchises in the NHL, the Sharks and Ducks offer different challenges. 

"The systems are different. They do things differently," said head coach Kris Knoblauch. "They're both exciting teams with a lot of young talent, yes, they are, but the type of game that each one plays is different."

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The biggest difference? Well, that starts with the NHL's great young superstar, Macklin Celebrini. 

The Sharks' young center is a new challenge the Oilers haven't seen before. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins noted, "There's only really a handful of guys that have been able to step in and make the impact he has so far. Obviously, it will be a challenge for us tomorrow, but one that we'll be ready for." Nuge added, "He's a really good skater, but playing against him a couple of times now, and watching him on TV, it's his compete and the way he thinks the game that is what's able to allow him to have success already at this level." 

As a team, "They're where they are for a reason." Nugent-Hopkins added, "We're going to have to prepare for it. We're going to have a good start and kind of play our game. And obviously, when Macklin's out there, you’ve got to be aware and know that he's on the ice. But they have some young guys who can make you pay. They play a fast game, and we'll match that tomorrow.”

The Ducks gave the Oilers all they could handle on Tuesday, outplaying the Oilers in the first and third periods. It was the middle frame and four goals by defensemen in quick succession that allowed Edmonton to get the two points. Like the Ducks, the Sharks won't stop pushing. But, unlike the Ducks, San Jose has the Celebrini factor. They also have some other budding young stars that make them dangerous. Frankly, one could argue the Oilers were fortunate to play a Ducks team that was missing Leo Karlsson, Troy Terry, and Mason McTavish. 

The Oilers won't be so lucky against the Sharks. Edmonton will need to be ready for them.

McDavid Will Get His First Look at a Future Teammate

Celebrini is headed to the 2026 Winter Olympics alongside Connor McDavid. Both will play for Team Canada at the Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina.

They'll be opponents on Thursday, but teammates in a couple of weeks. "He's driven. He plays a hard game, wins faceoffs, and puck battles. He does a lot of things that a veteran does," said McDavid. It will be McDavid's first up-close look at a player some believe might challenge him for the Hart Trophy this season. 

Expect it to be a challenge that McDavid gets excited about. And, now that Edmonton understands the kind of push a young team can bring, maybe this matchup will be another good litmus test. 

"Anaheim definitely has young skill, and they play a fast game, but everybody's structured now. If you're going to have success in this league, it's not just going to be free-wheeling and having these young guys score a few points every night. You have to play a structured game, or else you're going to pay for it," said Knoblauch. 

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For the second time this season, and for the first time in the province this year, the Montreal Canadiens will be taking on the Colorado Avalanche masquerading as the Quebec Nordiques on Thursday night at the Bell Centre. Thanks to a derogation from the league, the visitors will be wearing their blue jerseys, which should give every fan who lived through the Quebec-Montreal rivalry a trip down memory lane.

The last time the two teams met, the Habs were obliterated by the Avs, who put seven goals past Jakub Dobes. Brock Nelson led the charge with two goals and two assists while Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog had three points each. The latter won’t be a problem for the Canadiens tonight as he’s currently injured, but Devon Toews, who has been out for three weeks, is now considered day-to-day and could return. Just like the Canadiens’ last opponents, the Vegas Golden Knights, the Avs are coming off a frustrating 5-2 loss against the Ottawa Senators and will be looking to bounce back in the second game of their back-to-back.

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At one stage this season, the Avs looked near invincible, but since we’ve entered 2026, they have lost two games in a row three times, so it doesn’t look like an impossible mission for the Canadiens. Still, Colorado has won seven of the last 10 duels between the two teams, including the previous two.

Martin St-Louis has already announced that Dobes will be in the net, giving him a chance to avenge the seven-goal beating he took in November. The Czech netminder has a 1-1-0 record against the visitors with a 3.84 goals-against average and a .864 save percentage. After his strong performance against the Golden Knights, he has brought his GAA on the year back under 3.00 at 2.96, and his SV now stands at .890. Meanwhile, Samuel Montembeault has a 1-0-1 record against Colorado with a 2.61 GAA and a .916 SV.

Colorado’s starter has yet to be confirmed, but since Mackenzie Blackwood played in Ottawa last night, it would make sense for Scott Wedgewood to get the start, even though his record against the Habs isn’t excellent. He’s 0-1-0 with a 4.45 GAA and a .778 SV, while Blackwood is 6-0-2 with a 2.41 GAA and a .922 SV.

Up front, the Avs will want to keep a close eye on Nick Suzuki, who has 10 points in as many games against them. Phillip Danault also has 10 points when facing Colorado, but in 21 games, and Brendan Gallagher completes the top three with nine points in 17 games.

Colorado would be smart to pay attention to Cole Caufield, as well. The sniper has five points in seven games against the visitors, but he’s on an incredible run right now with points and goals in his last six games. He’s got 11 points in that span, including nine goals. His goal-scoring streak matches those of Max Pacioretty (2014-15) and Max Domi (2019-20) for the longest in 30 years for a Hab player. He still has a long way to go to break the franchise record that was set by Joe Malone, who scored in 14 consecutive games in 1917-18. Newsy Lalonde is in second place with goals in 13 straight games in 1920-21, and multiple players have had nine-game goal streaks with the Habs: Lalonde, Aurele Joliat, Maurice Richard, Bernard Geoffrion, and Denis Savard. The Franchise’s last seven-goal game streak dates back to 1981-82 when Steve Shutt accomplished the feat.

COLE CAUFIELD WITH HIS 30TH OF THE SEASON TO GIVE THE HABS THE LEAD. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VKr6DuPKHZ

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 28, 2026

Meanwhile, the Canadiens will want to find a way to contain Nelson, who now has 31 points in 33 games against the Habs, Brent Burns, who has 21 points in 29 games, and Nathan MacKinnon, who has 20 points in as many games. As for Artturi Lehkonen, he has seven points in just six games against his former team.

Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM, and you can catch the game on RDS, TSN2, and ALT. Justin Kea and Frederick L'Ecuyer will be the referees, while Michel Cormier and Devin Berg will be the linemen.

Follow Karine on X @KarineHains Bluesky @karinehains.bsky.social and Threads @karinehains.  

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The Vegas Golden Knights have enjoyed a lot of success in January, posting an 8-4-2 record while ranking 2nd in goals.

My Stars vs. Golden Knights predictions expect them to snap their mini two-game losing streak on home soil against Dallas.

Let’s break down my NHL picks for Thursday, January 29.

Stars vs Golden Knights prediction

Stars vs Golden Knights best bet: Golden Knights moneyline (-125)

The Vegas Golden Knights possess one of the league’s most talented rosters, and the results are starting to reflect that.

Only the Sabres have outscored the Golden Knights in January, and their underlying numbers are also strong. The Golden Knights have controlled better than 53% of the expected goal share across all situations this month, sitting eighth in the NHL – ahead of the Dallas Stars.

They are likely to generate more than their fair share of chances and put a lot of stress on Jake Oettinger. He's a solid goaltender, but he has struggled of late when going up in class.

Oettinger has lost three of his past four against Top-10 scoring offenses, allowing 15 total goals and posting a sub-.900 save percentage in each of those games.

He doesn’t have the best track record against the Golden Knights in the regular season, either, allowing at least three goals in four straight.

Vegas has scored 4+ in four of its past five at home and six of the last nine. Coming off back-to-back losses to close out their road trip, the Golden Knights will no doubt be looking to make a statement back on home ice.

Stars vs Golden Knights same-game parlay

Jack Eichel has created goals in bulk, no matter the matchup. Isolating games against Top-10 teams in limiting goals (which the Stars are), Eichel has piled up 16 assists through 14 games. He recorded at least one helper in 10 of 14, including eight of the last nine.

Mark Stone has scored in eight of his last nine home games following a day off. He and Eichel have picked up points on the same goal a whopping 27 times this season. If Eichel gets his assist, there’s a pretty good chance it comes on a Stone goal.

Going the other way, Jason Robertson appears the most reliable target in a tough matchup. He has averaged 3.5 shots per game against Top-10 shot suppression teams this season.

Stars vs Golden Knights SGP

• Golden Knights moneyline
• Jack Eichel Over 0.5 assists
• Mark Stone anytime goal
• Jason Robertson Over 2.5 shots on goal

Stars vs Golden Knights odds

• Moneyline: Stars +105 | Golden Knights -125
• Puck Line: Stars +1.5 (-240) | Golden Knights -1.5 (+195)
• Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+115) | Under 6.5 (-135)

Stars vs Golden Knights trend

Vegas has won four of its past five games at home. Find more NHL betting trends for Stars vs. Golden Knights.

How to watch Stars vs Golden Knights

Stars vs Golden Knights latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here