IHM NHL SHORT NEWS
After Olympics: Injuries, Trade, Key Returns | February 25, 2026
Date: 25 February 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom
The NHL returns to full focus after the Olympic break. Here are the key items that actually move teams.
Barkov Recovery Update for Panthers
Aleksander Barkov said he is “really happy” with his recovery from knee surgery and is hoping to be available for the playoffs. He also made a donation of more than $1 million to a children’s hospital.
Why it matters: Florida’s playoff ceiling changes dramatically if Barkov is truly tracking for a postseason return.
Trade: Girard to Penguins, Kulak to Avalanche
Samuel Girard was traded from the Avalanche to the Penguins in exchange for Brett Kulak. Pittsburgh also received a second-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft.
Why it matters: This is a direct blue-line identity swap. Pittsburgh add a mobile puck-moving defender, Colorado add a steadier defensive piece for heavy minutes.
Rantanen Timeline for Stars
Mikko Rantanen is expected back before the end of the regular season after a lower-body injury suffered at the Olympics. Separate reporting indicates he could miss at least two weeks.
Why it matters: Dallas must protect points now. Their top-end scoring structure changes without him, especially on the power play.
Status Report Quick Hits
Auston Matthews is expected to play Wednesday. John Carlson is listed as questionable.
Why it matters: For contenders, one missing top player can reshape matchups and special teams immediately.
Game Availability Notes
Jack Eichel is expected to miss Wednesday. Noah Hanifin will not play Wednesday. Brayden Point is expected in the lineup Wednesday. Kirill Marchenko is expected to play Thursday.
Why it matters: Post-Olympic scheduling is tight. Short absences create real volatility in daily results.
Coach Mark Comment
After the Olympics, teams often look sharp for one game and messy for the next. Travel load, reintegrating stars, and defensive pairing rhythm decide who stabilizes first.
IceHockeyMan Newsroom