The Vancouver Canucks are bringing back winger Vitali Kravtsov. Vancouver has announced that they have signed the 25-year-old to a one-year, two way contract. Now 25, Kravtsov has spent the last two seasons in the KHL, playing for Traktor Chelyabinsk. 

In a press release, GM Patrik Allvin wrote, "Vitali had a strong season in the KHL and was an impact player for his team. In his two seasons in Russia, he has worked hard on his game, and we look forward to seeing where Vitali is at when he comes to training camp in Penticton."

While Kravtsov's new contract is a two-way deal, he will still need to clear waivers if sent to the AHL. His salary in the NHL will be $775,000, while in the AHL, it will be $450,000. Kravtsov will be a Group 6 UFA during the 2026 off-season if he does not play at least 16 games in the NHL this season. 

Does It Make Sense For The Canucks To Bring Back Vitali Kravtsov Next Season?As the 2025 off-season continues, many players will be linked to the Vancouver Canucks. Whether through trade or free agency, Vancouver is expected to be busy over the next few weeks as the management group builds a roster that can compete for a spot in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. One familiar face that the Canucks could bring back is forward Vitali Kravtsov, who is reportedly wants to return to the NHL for the 2025-26 season.

Kravtsov departed for the KHL after the 2022-23 season. Last season, he posted 58 points in 66 games before racking up seven in 19 playoff games. Listed at 6'2", 187 lbs, Kravtsov has played 288 career regular-season games in the KHL, scoring 81 goals while recording 160 points. 

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As for his time with the Canucks, Kravtsov played 16 games with Vancouver during the 2022-23 season. He was traded to the Canucks by the New York Rangers for a seventh-round pick in 2026 and Will Lockwood. During his 16 games, Kravtsov recorded two points while averaging 10:50 of ice time.  

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Detroit Red Wings Updated Top 10 Prospects - Feb. 24 2025 - Vol. 78, Issue 08 - Bob Duff

THE FRUITS OF GM Steve Yzerman’s labor are beginning to blossom. Six of the draft picks Detroit has made since Yzerman took over as GM of the club in 2019 are now wearing the Winged Wheel. Lucas Raymond (4th overall in 2020) and Marco Kasper (8th in ’22) skate on the top line with captain Dylan Larkin. Moritz Seider (6th in ’19) and Simon Edvinsson (6th in ’21) are top-four D-men. Beyond them, Albert Johansson (60th in ’19) has been playing alongside Edvinsson, and massive winger Elmer Soderblom (159th in ’19) was summoned in late January from AHL Grand Rapids for his second NHL look.

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1 AXEL SANDIN-PELLIKKA

D, 19, 5-11, 176 lbs

Skelleftea (Swe.)

2023 draft, 17th overall

OVERALL 9

The slick Swede was named top D-man at the WJC for the second year in a row, joining Wings icon Slava Fetisov as the only blueliners to do so in tournament history. He led Swedish League ‘D’ in scoring before leaving for Ottawa. Sandin-Pellikka can carry the puck up ice, run a PP and create chances with quick movement and passing skills. “He looks like a talented young defenseman,” Yzerman said. “He’s playing in the Swedish Elite League, which is a very good league, doing well.”

2 NATE DANIELSON

C, 20, 6-1, 190

Grand Rapids (AHL)

2023 draft, 9th overall

OVERALL 31

It took Danielson some time to find his footing as a first-year pro. He called it a big adjustment and said it took “five or six” games to feel normal. Detroit brass loves his 200-foot game. “He does everything right, and it shows in the way he handles himself and his maturity,” assistant player development director Dan Cleary said. Pat Kane, too, offered high praise: “A lot of skill. Kind of reminds me a little bit of (Connor) Bedard, the way he plays and the way he stickhandles and shoots.”

Could Nate Danielson Make Red Wings Main Roster?The Red Wings could take a similar approach to other contenders by placing young talent in top-six roles.

3 TREY AUGUSTINE

G, 20, 6-1, 194

Michigan State (Big Ten)

15-5-3, 2.07, .926

2023 draft, 41st overall

OVERALL 46

Augustine has helped lead Michigan State back to prominence and starred at the WJC, backstopping the U.S. to a second straight gold. He also played for his nation at the senior worlds last year against NHLers as a 19-year-old. The mature stopper is known for his unflappable nature and consistency. “When I watch Trey, he gives me a lot of confidence,” Cleary said. “He’s got a great demeanor about him. He’s got a calm, cool demeanor but competitive. That fire burns inside him.”

4 MICHAEL BRANDSEGG-NYGARD

RW, 19, 6-1, 198

Skelleftea (Swe.)

2024 draft, 15th overall

OVERALL 48

Detroit wanted to fast-track ‘MBN’ to play with AHL Grand Rapids this season, but he returned to the SHL. He was sensational for Norway at last year’s worlds while playing on the top line with Mats Zuccarello and Patrick Thoresen. Brandsegg-Nygard’s quick release makes him dangerous around the net. “He’s kind of known as a shooter, but he’s a very smart player,” Grand Rapids center Amadeus Lombardi said. “He makes smart, nifty passes.” He’s also very willing to use his size to punish foes.

5 SEBASTIAN COSSA

G, 22, 6-7, 220

Grand Rapids (AHL)

15-9-3, 2.25, .917

2021 draft, 15th overall

OVERALL 69

In his second full AHL year, Cossa has become a go-to goalie, earning selection to the AHL All-Star Game. “He reads plays well, and he can use his hands,” crease mate Ville Husso said. Cossa’s massive frame fills the net and lets him battle through screens. Cossa got his first taste of NHL action in a winning effort this year. He is a confident netminder who carries himself with swagger. “A lot of composure,” Wings blueliner Moritz Seider said. “I think he lives for those kinds of opportunities.”

Red Wings Could Be Dark Horse in Mason McTavish SweepstakesThe Detroit Red Wings present the most compelling offer for Anaheim RFA Mason McTavish: offering a larger role, a competitive salary, and a spot on a team built to contend.

6 CARTER MAZUR

LW, 22, 6-0, 188

Grand Rapids (AHL)

2021 draft, 70th overall

Undersized winger plays with ferocity but has also struggled to stay healthy.

7 DMITRI BUCHELNIKOV

LW, 21, 5-10, 163

Vityaz Moscow Region (KHL)

2022 draft, 52nd overall

Skilled winger leads his team in scoring. Selected to KHL All-Star Game.

8 EMMITT FINNIE

C, 19, 6-1, 191

Kamloops (WHL)

2023 draft, 201st overall

Late pick quickly earned NHL deal. Strong skater plays a complete game. Born leader.

9 MAX PLANTE

LW, 19, 5-11, 180

Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA)

2024 draft, 47th overall

Tremendous hockey sense. Moves the puck really well. Very deceptive skater.

10 ELMER SODERBLOM

LW, 23, 6-8, 248

Grand Rapids (AHL)

2019 draft, 159th overall

Hulking winger uses size to protect the puck. Learning to be more physical.

James van Riemsdyk Excited To Join Former USA Teammate Patrick Kane With Red Wings As one of the more active teams in free agency during the offseason, the Detroit Red Wings have brought in multiple new players that will suit up for them in the upcoming 2025-26 NHL Season.

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The normal practice for free agent players who have not latched on with an NHL club has accelerated with a rather thin market this summer. The decision between rolling the dice on a professional tryout, taking an AHL contract, or heading to Europe has started early, as late last month former Sabre Conor Sheary signed a PTO with the NY Rangers. Another former Sabre, Jimmy Vesey has signed a two-year deal with Swiss club Geneve-Servette. 

The 32-year-old former Hobey Baker Award winner was a Nashville Predators draft pick, but after four seasons at Harvard University, he informed the Preds that he would not sign with them and intended to become an unrestricted free agent. In the summer of 2016, Nashville GM David Poile dealt Vesey’s exclusive rights to the Sabres for a third-round pick.  

Other Sabres Stories

Projecting Sabres Trade Cost - Bryan Rust

Six Former Sabres Who Signed Elsewhere

Sabres GM Tim Murray could not sway Vesey to sign with the Sabres, and in August 2016, the winger signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the NY Rangers. After scoring 33 goals in his first two seasons, he signed a two-year extension for an AAV of $2.275 million and once again scored 17 goals for the Rangers, but with the need to clear cap space to sign free agent Artemi Panarin, New York traded Vesey to Buffalo for a third-round pick. 

Vesey’s stint with the Sabres lasted just 64 games during the COVID-shortened 2019-20 season, in which he scored 20 points (9 goals, 11 assists) playing mostly a bottom-six role. He signed with Toronto the following season, was claimed on waivers by Vancouver, signed as a free agent with New Jersey, before returning to the Rangers for the next two-plus seasons. He was dealt to Colorado at the trade deadline last March and did not play in any of the Avalanche seven playoff games in their first-round loss to Dallas. 

Follow Michael on X, Instagram, and Bluesky @MikeInBuffalo

After an impressive season in the USHL with the Youngstown Phantoms, Adam Benak was drafted 102nd overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2025 NHL Draft. 

The fourth rounder was drafted second overall in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Import draft by the Brantford Bulldogs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).

✍️ BENÁK IS OFFICIALLY A BULLDOG.

The 2nd overall CHL Import Draft pick and 2025 Minnesota Wild NHL selection has been sensational at every level he’s played. Benák brings electric offensive talent and a cabinet full of international medals to Brantford.#BFD#OHL#mnwildpic.twitter.com/ZBXREvK5az

— Brantford Bulldogs (@BulldogsOHL) August 5, 2025

Benak, 18, recorded 17 goals, 42 assists and 59 points in 57 games for the Phantoms during the 2024-25 season. He was named to the USHL All-Rookie team.

He recorded seven goals, 17 assists and 24 points in 12 games for Czechia U18 International Juniors that year as well.  

Instead of returning to the USHL, Benak will go play in the OHL with the Bulldogs. The 5-foot-8 center is an interesting Wild prospect to keep an eye on.

Other Wild News

Son Of Former Minnesota Wild Forward Commits To University Of MinnesotaLong-time NHL forward Matt Cullen's son just announced his commitment to playing hockey for the University of Minnesota. Wyatt is one of three Cullen brothers, all who play hockey.  Former Minnesota Wild Forward Signs Two-Year Contract With The Pittsburgh PenguinsThe Minnesota Wild traded forwards Marat Khusnutdinov and Jakub Lauko, along with a 2026 sixth round pick, to the Boston Bruins for forward Justin Brazeau at the traded deadline.  Former Minnesota Wild Forward Signs Multi-Year Contract In Czech Extraliga LeagueAfter just 139 games in the NHL, the former Minnesota Wild forward Jakub Lauko is heading to Europe to play for Dynamo Pardubice, in the Czech Extraliga League. 

The Buffalo Sabres have been considered to have one of the best deepest prospect pools in the NHL, which is in part due to them selecting high in recent drafts because of their not qualifying for the playoffs. The Sabres have displayed an eye for talent, but the organization’s developmental model has not yielded enough results. Leading up to the opening of training camp in mid-September, we will look at the club's top 40 prospects. All are 25 years old or younger, whose rights are currently held by the Sabres or are on AHL or NHL deals and have played less than 40 NHL games. 

#38 - Ryan Rucinski - F (Youngstown - USHL)

It often occurs that when clubs are watching over their own prospects, they see another player that intrigues them. The Sabres may have found a potential gem in defenseman Luke Osburn, who impressed at last week’s World Junior Summer Showcase and is heading to the University of Wisconsin this fall. The 18-year-old Osburn won the USHL Defenseman of the Year last season playing for the Youngstown Phantoms, the same club that 2025 seventh-rounder Ryan Rucinski played for.   

Other Sabres Stories

Projecting Sabres Trade Cost - Bryan Rust

Six Former Sabres Who Signed Elsewhere

The 5’10”, 176 lb. forward is from Broadview Heights, OH (south of Cleveland) and has hockey bloodlines through his father Jeff and maternal uncle Steve Duke, who both played NCAA hockey at Western Michigan and had long minor league careers. The 18-year-old scored 42 points (19 goals, 23 assists) in 49 games with the Phantoms last season, and is slated to play another season in the USHL before heading to Ohio State in 2026

Elite Prospects Draft Guide describes Rucinski as “A detailed, versatile forward with an edge, who creates through puck protection, net-front skill, and winning battles. His preferred scoring tools: An instant inside leg wrister off the rush and quick hands in tight on the power play. And when neither

of those is an option, he crashes the net and whacks away until he finds an opening.”

  

Follow Michael on X, Instagram, and Bluesky @MikeInBuffalo

On Aug. 4, Matthew Schaefer threw out the first pitch at Citi Field, prior to a game between the New York Mets and the Cleveland Guardians. The joy of throwing out the first pitch was likely overshadowed by the feeling of signing his first NHL contract.

The New York Islanders took to X to announce the signing of the 2025 first overall pick, agreeing on a three-year, $975,000 contract, according to PuckPedia. 

Although it’s always felt likely that Schaefer would sign his ELC, there were rumors that the 17-year-old could spend a season in college, joining any of the prestigious NCAA teams that would have been over the moon to bring him into their program. Signing his ELC means that the ship has sailed, but there is a small possibility that he returns to the Erie Otters in the OHL for another season, but that seems incredibly unlikely. At the very least, he’ll be given his 10-game trial before the first year of his ELC burns. 

The most probable situation for Schaefer is that he plays sheltered third-pairing minutes on the Islanders to start the season and slowly earns more ice time. The Islanders can also loan him to Team Canada at the world juniors if they feel he is struggling and a confidence booster is needed. 

Another player in an almost identical situation is the San Jose Sharks' 2025 second overall pick, Michael Misa. He, too, has been heavily linked to the NCAA, and the longer he goes without a contract, the more significance the situation holds. 

One slight difference between Misa and Schaefer is that Schaefer can return to the OHL knowing he has things to prove. Schaefer played just 17 games last season while dealing with an injury, and although he looked dominant, scoring seven goals and 22 points, it wasn’t at the level at which Misa dominated.

There wasn’t really a player who could hold a candle to Misa in the OHL, scoring 62 goals and 134 points in 65 games, taking home OHL MVP honors and finishing with the most points, 10 more than the next closest player. 

Misa, like Schaefer, has all the makings of what the modern-day player in their position looks like. Misa is a transition monster, has a quick release, which opens up play-making opportunities and has some of the best hands in the 2025 draft class. His understanding of how to protect the puck around the boards and how to bait defenders into opening up space for him is NHL-ready. Defensively, he hounds down pucks and plays smart, positional hockey.

Listed at 6-foot-1, 184 pounds, the 18-year-old could benefit from a college season where he adds more muscle and weight to his frame, as well as playing in a tournament like the World Junior Championship.

Alternatively, the Sharks won’t be competing for a playoff spot next season, which is sometimes a suitable situation for young players. Like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith did in their rookie campaigns, Misa can fail and learn from his mistakes in the NHL without the consequences of the NHL standings. He could skate as the organization's No.2 center with veteran Alexander Wennberg skating on the third line behind him to provide veteran leadership. 

Misa is the remaining top-three pick to have not signed his ELC, after Schaefer did, and Anton Frondell signed his with the Chicago Blackhawks on July. 15. Ultimately, the Sharks and Misa should avoid comparisons to Schaefer and the Islanders' situation and do what they believe is best for his development.

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He was unceremoniously dumped by the Arizona Coyotes back in February 2024 but, according to reports out of Slovakia, Adam Ružička might soon be back in the NHL.

Ružička, 26, played in the KHL for Spartak Moscow last season and, according to Šport.sk, that club is very interested in re-signing the Slovak forward.

“Negotiations are still ongoing,” Spartak senior advisor and former NHLer Valeri Kamensky is quoted. “In the case of a player like Ružička, it’s a longer process. However, I believe that he is waiting for a specific offer from the NHL, as that is his dream. That’s why everything is dragging on a bit.”

No specific NHL team is mentioned.

Ružička had 40 points in 114 games for the Calgary Flames between 2021 and 2024. In late January 2024, he was claimed on waivers by Arizona. However, after just three games for the Coyotes, Ružička was placed on waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract after he posted a video on his Instagram account that showed a line of white powder and a credit card. The video was quickly removed.

Adam Ružička & Mário Grman sign with KHL clubs; Hockey Slovakia to vote on the national team issueIn two separate announcements on Wednesday, two Slovak players signed with KHL clubs. Center Adam Ružička signed with Spartak Moscow and defenseman Mário Grman with Admiral Vladivoskok.

Last season, Ružička had 45 points in 65 regular-season games for Spartak and 12 more points in 12 playoff games. Spartak finished third in the KHL’s Western Conference and was eliminated in the second round of the playoffs.

At the time he signed with Spartak, Ružička was quoted, “I’m glad that everything turned out this way. I’m especially excited that I’ll be playing alongside my sister’s husband, Michal Čajkovský.”

Interestingly, Čajkovský, a defenseman who was a member of Slovakia’s 2022 bronze-medal-winning Olympic team, has recently left the team and is also a free agent.

It’s worth considering that Ružička’s attempt to move back to the NHL, or at least out of the KHL, might be partly motivated by his wish to play in the upcoming Winter Olympics. While Hockey Slovakia reversed its ban on KHL players last summer, the issue has been controversial among Slovak fans, media and players.

Martin Pospíšil after Olympic qualifiers: “It was never anything against the players” from the KHL Martin Pospíšil was calm and reflective after Slovakia’s 3-1 victory over Kazakhstan on Sunday in Bratislava, which qualified the team for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

Last summer, brothers Martin and Kristián Pospišíl were vocal about their hesitation to play alongside KHLers at the Olympic qualifiers – eventually choosing to do so. That team did qualify for the Olympics but at the most recent IIHF World Championship, the Slovaks were unable to convince any full-time NHLers to play. That team, which did include two active KHLers, failed to make the quarterfinals.

One has to think that, if it comes down to a choice, KHL players might be omitted from selection if it would pacify NHLers.

Ružička’s only appearance for Slovakia’s senior men’s national team was in qualifying for the 2022 Olympics. Previously, he played in three IIHF World Junior Championships.

Photo © Sergei Belski-Imagn Images.

Predicting Slovakia's 2026 Olympic roster By winning their group at the final round of qualifying this past weekend, the Slovaks have qualified for the men’s ice hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

The Detroit Red Wings present the most compelling offer for Anaheim RFA Mason McTavish: offering a larger role, a competitive salary, and a spot on a team built to contend.

As we find ourselves in the middle portion of the summer where there isn't much going on, speculation grows around certain players and unresolved situations. One of the most prominent ones dominating the current news cycle is the Anaheim Ducks and restricted free agent Mason McTavish. 

Anthony Di Marco: "The Canadiens are a club that I’d reckon would be keeping close tabs on McTavish’s availability" - Daily Faceoff (8/1)

— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 3, 2025

At just 22 years old, he has been one of the few bright spots on a rising Ducks team. He’s shown steady improvement, posting a career-best 0.68 points per game last season, finishing with 52 points in 76 games. His numbers were similar to big name centres like Ryan O'Reilly, Brock Boeser and 2025 Conn Smythe trophy winner Sam Bennett. However, with the Ducks shifting into contender mode, McTavish could face a reduced role. The recent addition of Chris Kreider may push him down the lineup, potentially taking over McTavish’s spot. 

The former third overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft is already proving to be a difference making player and could grow when given the right oppurtunity like he would get with the Detroit Red Wings. Early reports suggest that the team would like to keep the team's second line of Patrick Kane, Marco Kasper and Alex DeBrincat together. This means the top line left wing spot is open for the taking with one lucky player getting the chance to play alongside a pair of superstars in Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. 

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Detroit would love to make a big swing and add a big name in this spot with McTavish being a potential answer. He has seen time at both centre and left wing with the Red Wings having an elite pool of draft capital and prospects that would be able to get a deal done. The Ducks are reportedly only interested in adding NHL-ready talent but the Red Wings could likely present them an offer that they can't refuse. 

Divisional Focus: Red Wings Look to Ice the Bruins’ RebuildThe Red Wings aim to win four crucial divisional games over the Boston Bruins next season 

Some have suggested a potential package leaving Detroit could feature a first- and second-round pick as well as regular NHLers in J.T. Compher and Jonatan Berggren to round out the group. The Red Wings in return could add a third-round pick alongside McTavish and in the process free up some spots for prospects to come up and find immediate roles while having the top six secured for the future. 

Detroit offers everything McTavish could be looking for: a contending team on the rise, a lineup that genuinely needs his skill set, and a larger role than what likely awaits him in Anaheim. On top of that, with over $12 million in cap space, the Red Wings have the flexibility to pay him like a true top-six forward. 

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With the NHL offseason coming to a close, the Los Angeles Kings still have some cap room to play with before training camp. 

Every year, squads sign unsigned free agents to PTOs, giving them a chance to fight for a roster place without any guaranteed promise. For veterans looking to prove they still have something left in their tank—or younger guys looking to rejuvenate their career—a PTO could be the chance of a lifetime.

With some intriguingly named talent still on the market, here are three free agents the Kings could invite to camp this September to bring depth, competition, and perhaps snag a bargain signing ahead of the 2025-26 season

Jack Roslovic (Center - UFA)

One of the few actual scoring threats remaining on the board, Roslovic has the speed, playmaking ability, and overall versatility to be a natural fit in the middle-six depth for LA on the third or second line.

Roslovic is the best free agent remaining on the board, according to this article, and a PTO would give him another chance to prove himself in training camp — if he impresses, the Kings can sign him to a short-term NHL deal. 

The 28-year-old still has a lot left in the tank, having played 81 games last season for the Carolina Hurricanes, averaging 22 goals, 17 assists, and 39 points. The one issue with Roslovic has been his ability to stay consistent and play at a high level for a playoff team, but with the Kings on a PTO deal, he might be motivated to. 

After matching his career high with 22 goals last season, Jack Roslovic remains unsigned.

Where do you think he ends up for 2025-2026? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/aBtmXURvWl

— BarDown (@BarDown) August 4, 2025

Fit: Low-risk secondary scorer and forecheck option.

Likelihood to sign: Moderate — veteran NHL player with no offers, sexy as a PTO and bounce-back candidate.

Matt Grzelcyk (Defenseman - UFA)

Matt Grzelcyk played eight seasons with the Boston Bruins before his tenure came to an end when he joined the Pittsburgh Penguins on a one-year deal last summer. 

Despite finishing with a +/- of negative 6, the lowest in his career, Grzelcyk still finished with a career high in points (40). The 31-year-old veteran is the exact type of player that the Kings need on the defensive end, especially after losing Vlasdilav Gavrikov to the New York Rangers in free agency. 

This postseason showed that the Kings are missing veteran leadership, experience, and a strong power-play unit on the ice. A PTO would serve as audition territory, with LA considering where he would best fit in their roster depth. 

Fit: Left-side puck-moving depth. 

Likelihood to sign: Moderate — good returning offense, still out there late in free agency.

Max Pacioretty (Left Winger - UFA)

Max Pacioretty might not be the player he was a few years ago in his prime, but he is still very capable of creating shots. 

Pacioretty played 37 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs last season and finished with 13 points, playing only half a season. A fully healthy Pacioretty can still help a team reach the next level, as the last time he played a full season was in 2021-22 with the Golden Knights. 

In that season, the 36-year-old put up 19 goals, 18 assists, and 37 points with a positive +/- of 8. Again, the Kings would greatly benefit from signing a couple of these solid veterans, who still have a lot left in the tank and bring valuable experience and discipline. 

You never know how the players on the market would benefit from playing with a team like the Kings, which boasts a lot of young talent and rising stars, especially now that a new GM has brought a fresh culture and a new start to the Kings. 

Fit: Veteran winger for goal-scoring depth and leadership.

Likelihood to sign: Reasonable — skilled veteran with prior PTO-to-contract precedent. 

Why these make sense for the Kings:

The UFA pool has thinned, especially beyond top-tier names like Roslovic. Grzelcyk and Pacioretty remain the best heading into training camp in mid-September.

All three can be signed on one-way, low-guarantee PTOs—giving LA the cap flexibility heading into training camp.

Who is the best fit for the Kings. Drop your thoughts below. 

The Montreal Canadiens have had a busy summer, as they brought in multiple new players. Given how this past season went for the Canadiens, it is not surprising in the slightest that they have been active this off-season.

Because of this, let's look at each of the Canadiens' newcomers and predict where they should fit on their roster. 

Noah Dobson: Top-Pairing Defenseman 

One of the Canadiens' top objectives this off-season was to improve the right side of their defense, and they did just that by bringing in Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders. The expectation is that he will now be on their top pairing, especially with him signing an eight-year, $76 million contract with the Habs after the trade. 

Zach Bolduc: Second-Line Left Wing 

After acquiring Zach Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues, the Canadiens are likely going to put the former first-round pick in the best position to succeed possible. Because of this, it would not be surprising in the slightest if he ends up having a spot on the Canadiens' second line next season.

Joe Veleno: Fourth-Line Center 

After being bought out by the Seattle Kraken, Joe Veleno signed a one-year, $900,000 contract with the Canadiens. Overall, bringing in the 2018 first-round pick is a low-risk move for the Canadiens, and they will be hoping that he can be a nice pickup for their bottom six. When looking at their depth chart, he should fit nicely as their fourth-line center. 

Kaapo Kahkonen: Third-String/AHL Goalie

The Canadiens brought in veteran goalie Kaapo Kahkonen to improve their depth between the pipes. Kahkonen will be third on the Canadiens' goalie depth chart, but could also work as their backup if they feel youngster Jakub Dobes needs more time in the AHL. 

Sammy Blais: Depth Forward

After a strong season in the AHL with the Abbotsford Canucks, Sammy Blais joined the Canadiens on an NHL deal this summer. The 29-year-old forward should work well in a depth role for the Canadiens and get chances in the lineup when injuries arise. 

Canadiens' Blueline Ranked Among NHL's BestIt is no secret that the Montreal Canadiens have a strong defensive group. They only improved upon this off-season, too, as they acquired star blueliner Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders last month.

Photo Credit: © Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

William Villeneuve is returning for another season in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ organization.

The team announced on Tuesday morning that they had signed the 23-year-old defenseman to a one-year, two-way contract. Villeneuve is coming off his best season in the Maple Leafs organization, where he put up 40 points (four goals and 36 assists) in 55 games with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies.

Since being drafted by Toronto in the fourth round (122nd overall) of the 2020 NHL Draft, Villeneuve has steadily developed into a strong, offensive-minded defenseman in the organization’s system. He scored 15 more points last season with Toronto compared to the year prior.

Villeneuve saw an uptick in opportunity with the Marlies last season after fellow 2020 draft selection Topi Niemela’s game took a dip. Near the midway point of the season, Villeneuve began getting more time on the team’s top power play, with 15 of his 40 points last year coming on the man advantage.

Alex Nylander Returns To Maple Leafs Organization, Signing One-Year AHL Deal With MarliesAlex Nylander is returning to Toronto for another season.

The Sherbrooke, Quebec-born defender, a restricted free agent, was qualified by the Maple Leafs earlier this summer, allowing them to retain his rights if he were to leave for another league. However, there’s likely interest from both sides to see how he’d perform in the NHL, after this past season with the Marlies.

Villeneuve is entering his fourth season of professional hockey with Toronto. In his final year of junior (2021-22), with the Saint John Sea Dogs, the defenseman won the Memorial Cup, scoring three points in four games at the tournament.

The defenseman, yet to make his NHL debut, has tallied 90 points (nine goals and 81 assists) in 165 AHL games with the Marlies. He also scored two assists in Toronto’s only two playoff games this past spring.

William Nylander's Father, Michael, Surprises Maple Leafs' Forward With Sweden's Top Hockey HonorToronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander has been named Sweden’s top hockey player of the year.

Villeneuve is the second-last RFA to be signed by the Maple Leafs, among those who were qualified by the club earlier this summer (Matthew Knies, Nick Robertson, William Villeneuve, Dennis Hildeby, Roni Hirvonen, and Niemela). 

Toronto inked Knies to a six-year, $46.5 million contract on June 29. The Maple Leafs and Robertson settled on a one-year, $1.825 million deal on Saturday. Both Niemela and Hirvonen returned to Europe after each spent two seasons in Toronto with the Marlies.

Hildeby is the only remaining RFA to be unsigned. The 23-year-old had another strong season with the Marlies, putting up 16 wins and a .908 save percentage in 30 games. The goaltender also played six games with the Maple Leafs—his first stint in the NHL—and won three games while posting a .878 save percentage.

'They're Trying To Move Money Around': Maple Leafs Reportedly Haven't Closed Door On Signing UFA Jack RoslovicThe Toronto Maple Leafs were reportedly interested in unrestricted free agent Jack Roslovic earlier this summer, and it appears the lure may not have gone away.

This article originally appeared on The Hockey News: Could William Villeneuve Earn NHL Call Up After Signing One-Year, Two-Way Contract With Maple Leafs?

(Top photo of Villeneuve: Christian Bonin / TSGphoto.com via Toronto Marlies)

New seasons provide new opportunities, which create avenues for players to break out. The 2025-26 season will be no different, and in this article, The Hockey News take a look at the strongest candidates to make a name for themselves or ascend into stardom on the Metro Division teams. 

Carolina Hurricanes: Jackson Blake

At just 21, right winger Jackson Blake has already shown an affinity for coming up in the clutch, and the fact he elevated his game during the playoffs for the Canes is a great sign. The son of former NHLer Jason Blake is coming off a solid rookie season and could easily take on more responsibility next year. He is a tenacious winger who plays bigger than his 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame. True, the Canes are deep up front, and Blake will likely stay in the bottom six, but don’t be surprised if he cracks the 20-goal mark. 

Columbus Blue Jackets: Jet Greaves

Goaltending was Columbus’ downfall in 2024-25, but Jet Greaves was stellar in 11 NHL games. Greaves is undersized but makes up for it with his athleticism and aggressiveness in the crease. He won a weekly first-star honor in April, thanks to a stretch in which he went 3-0-0 with a .968 save percentage. Despite playing just 11 games, Greaves finished in the top 15 in goals saved above expected. No other Jackets goalie ranked in the top 75. Greaves, 24, has his teammates’ trust and is ready for a bigger role. 

New Jersey Devils: Simon Nemec

While the playoffs were a letdown for the Devils, they did at least get a signature double-OT goal from blueliner Simon Nemec against Carolina. It’s been an up-and-down existence for Nemec since New Jersey picked him second overall in 2022, as he played fewer NHL games this year than he did as a rookie, when he had 19 points in 2023-24. But defensemen take time to develop, and if Nemec, 21, can use that late confidence booster to build momentum, the Devils will have another ace in their back end.

New York Islanders: Isaiah George

With a new GM in Mathieu Darche, the Islanders will be interesting to watch this summer. New York has the No.1 pick in the draft, but will that player (Islanders selected Matthew Schaefer) go straight to the NHL? Either way, the Isles need a pick-me-up, and blueliner Isaiah George fits the bill. George is an excellent skater with 33 games worth of NHL reps under his belt from last season, which he split between Long Island and the AHL. He has a solid frame and comes from a great OHL London program - both big pluses.

New York Rangers: Will Cuylle

The Rangers need more players like Will Cuylle. The young power forward is big, skilled and nasty - so foes always know when he’s on the ice. New York needs the next generation to step up after the club experienced a cultural crisis this season (missing the playoffs entirely despite having a contention-worthy lineup). Cuylle is already well on his way, coming off his first 20-goal season and doubling his production from 2023-24. Given his trajectory, a 60-point campaign in 2025-25 would not be a shock.

Philadelphia Flyers: Tyson Foerster

With a great shot and a big frame, Tyson Foerster brings a lot of appeal on the right wing. Heading into his third full NHL season, he’ll be one to watch under new coach Rick Tocchet. Foerster is coming off a 25-goal season and has made incremental offensive gains year over year. Based on his skill set, it’s fair to expect 30 goals from the 2020 first-rounder - perhaps more. Whether in the OHL or AHL, Foerster has proven adept at adjusting to better competition, and so far, he’s done the same in the NHL.

Pittsburgh Penguins: Rutger McGroarty

He’ll never be popular in Winnipeg, but Rutger McGroarty has a chance to be a rarity in Pittsburgh: an impact player who was taken in the first round of a recent draft (even if the Pens didn’t draft him). Acquired from the Jets in 2024, McGroarty is a stout, two-way winger with leadership qualities. He got a taste of the NHL this year but saw most of his action in the AHL, putting up solid numbers with the Baby Pens and seeing what the pros are really like. Now, it’s time to push for a regular job on the big squad. 

Washington Capitals: Ryan Leonard

Rookie Ryan Leonard didn’t play every playoff game for the Capitals, but that was very much by design. Still, the former Boston College standout and two-time WJC gold medallist (once as Team USA’s captain) showed he’s ready to make an impact in Washington. He’ll be one to watch in the Calder Trophy race thanks to his tenacious, high-energy game that blends skill and physicality. On a Caps team turning over to a new generation, the 20-year-old right winger will play a big role in his first full season.

This article appeared in our 2025 Champions issue. Our cover story focuses on the 2025 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, specifically the elite play of defenseman Seth Jones, along with a recap of each game of the Cup final. We also include features on Sharks center Will Smith and Kraken defenseman Ryker Evans. In addition, we give our list of the top 10 moments from the 2024-25 NHL season.

You can get it in print for free when you subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/Free today. All subscriptions include complete access to more than 76 years of articles at The Hockey News Archive.

If I'm Mike Sullivan – and I'm looking ahead to 2025-26 – the three teams I'd be worrying about are the New Jersey Devils, Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators.

That trio of clubs includes the ones the Rangers had a chance to beat out for a playoff berth but failed

New York's closing record was 39-36-7 for 85 points.

The Devils finished with 91 points (42-33-7) as did Montreal (40-31-11) whereas Ottawa closed at 97 points (45-30-7).

Contrast the above final points with the preseason projections. Only the Devils were picked to finish ahead of New York.

Ottawa was projected to wind up seventh in the Atlantic Division and Montreal eighth in the same division

"What's scary for the Rangers is that all three teams – Devils, Canadiens and Senators – all are on the upswing. And all have one thing in common; they have a young squad and only figure to get better in the upcoming season."

Pressing Rangers Questions And Answers When a club like the Rangers finishes in the NHL's subterranean depths, it raises questions that must be answered before the autumn leaves start to fall. (Now don't be a wise guy and tell me that they're falling already.)

And now you know why Mike Sullivan should be analyzing the Habs, the Sens and our good friends across the Hudson River.

Study hard Mike, 'cause the Sens, Habs and Devils are not fooling around. So don't let them make a fool of you!

On Tuesday afternoon, the Chicago Blackhawks announced the celebration nights and promotional schedule for their centennial season, which is coming up in 2025-26.

The season’s celebration will be divided into four chapters. There will also be 17 giveaways, including seven bobbleheads. 

Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) on Xbetter start brushing up on your history🔍 promo schedule🗓️ ➡︎ https://t.co/HlBI4GJrxo

The bobbleheads include Stan Mikita (October 17th vs Vancouver), Tony Esposito (November 15th vs Toronto), Denis Savard (November 23rd vs Colorado), Chris Chelios (December 13th vs Detroit), Brent Seabrook (January 4th vs Vegas), Duncan Keith (January 17th vs Boston), and Tommy Hawk (March 6th vs Vancouver). 

Amongst other giveaways, player pins for Spencer Knight, Alex Vlasic, and Frank Nazar are on the list as well. You can see the entire promotional schedule with themed nights here: 

Vinnie Parise (@VinnieParise) on XHere is your centennial season nights/promotions for the 2025-26 Chicago Blackhawks! It is divided into four chapters. There are going to be 17 giveaways and 7 of them are bobbleheads! Note: the Blackhawks Hall of Fame celebration is still TBD

The chapters of each celebration are titled "The Originals", "The Madhouse", "The Banner Years", and "The Next Originals", each for a different era of Chicago Blackhawks hockey. 

All season long, fans will be able to come and be excited about their favorite NHL team through memories that span a lifetime. There is going to be a lot of energy at the United Center on these nights. 

One note is that the Blackhawks Hall of Fame celebration still has a TBD date. That will be announced at a later time. 

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

The Pittsburgh Penguins are going to trade Rickard Rakell at some point before his contract ends. That contract has three years remaining at $5 million AAV, and for a player that just recorded 35 goals and 70 points on a bad team, he isn't going to come cheap.

For the price and term of Rakell, any number of teams could throw their hat in the race for him. For the Chicago Blackhawks, it actually does make sense for them to bring him in if the team isn't on his no-trade list. There are eight teams on that list.

While the Blackhawks brought in Andre Burakovsky this summer, in no way does that reduce the chance of targeting someone like Rakell if they can. Chicago is going to have to give up a lot in the hopes that Rakell helps the team push closer to the playoffs and into the dance before his contract is up. That is a long way to go, but his contributions would very much help along with the growth of many of the younger players.

Rakell could slide in on the top line beside Connor Bedard and play on the top power play. Rakell is a player that can score, and while the Blackhawks have a number of average to above average top-9 players, he is a step above that.

Starting in a package to acquire Rakell would very likely be Lukas Reichel and Kevin Korchinski, but I would expect even more, whether it is a first-round pick and more or another prospect in the system that the Blackhawks could afford to trade or won't be in the NHL just yet.

Rakell is a player that could help a non-contender get much better or a playoff-bound/contender get a step up on the competition at a price that can fit in most team's cap. If Rakell isn't traded this offseason and the Blackhawks look better, both overall and with development of the young players, then the Penguins' sniper is very much in the cards and makes even more sense.

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