Category: IHM Newsroom

Official IceHockeyMan editorial hub. Breaking hockey updates, league insights, and major headlines from the world of ice hockey.

Kuzmenko takes leave from Penguins after father’s death

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:55 CEST

Story Summary

Andrei Kuzmenko has taken a leave of absence from the Pittsburgh Penguins to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko. The 30-year-old forward practised with the Penguins on Thursday before travelling to Moscow to be with his family. Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia. Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas expressed the organisation’s sorrow, offered support to the family and asked that their privacy be respected.

Key Facts

Andrei Kuzmenko has taken a leave of absence from the Pittsburgh Penguins to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko.
The 30-year-old forward practised with the Penguins on Thursday before departing for Moscow to be with his family.
Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia and suffered extensive tissue damage after being bitten in the head.
Alexander Kuzmenko was with six travel companions who managed to drive the bear away and moved him to a nearby settlement; he was airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl but was unable to be saved.
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said: ” The Pittsburgh Penguins organization was deeply saddened, this morning, to learn of the passing of Andrei Kuzmenko’s father, Alexander. Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with the Kuzmenko family and their loved ones as they grieve the loss of Alexander. We ask that the privacy of Andrei and the Kuzmenko family be respected at this time.”
Dubas also said: ” Andrei chose to be surrounded by his teammates and practice with the team this morning before returning to Moscow to be with his family this afternoon. Andrei and the Kuzmenko family have the full support of the Penguins organization during this time.”
Andrei Kuzmenko signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Penguins on July 1.
Last season, Kuzmenko had 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings and underwent surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.
Entering his fifth NHL season, Kuzmenko has 182 points (85 goals, 97 assists) in 271 regular-season NHL games for the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings, and six points (three goals, three assists) in seven Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Alexander Kuzmenko was described as a respected hockey coach in Russia.

IHM Discussion

The Penguins have confirmed a tragic family bereavement for Andrei Kuzmenko. General manager Kyle Dubas expressed the organisation’s condolences, asked for privacy and said Kuzmenko has the club’s full support. Kuzmenko practised with the team on Thursday before leaving for Moscow to be with his family.

For Pittsburgh, the situation is first and foremost a human one. Kuzmenko is a 30-year-old forward who signed a one-year, $5 million contract on 1 July. He had 25 points, including 13 goals, in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings last season before undergoing surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.

Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was a respected hockey coach in Russia. He was on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia when he was attacked by a bear. His companions drove the animal away and moved him to a nearby settlement before he was airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl, where he could not be saved.

Pittsburgh will manage Kuzmenko’s absence as needed, but no return timeline or roster move has been specified. The immediate priority remains support for Kuzmenko and his family.

Why It Matters

This is principally a personal tragedy rather than an on-ice development, although it comes during the Penguins’ preparations for the regular season. Kuzmenko is a contracted forward who practised before leaving to be with his family, and any extended absence could affect forward depth and line combinations. The immediate priority is support and flexibility while the player is away.

Mini Q&A

Why is Andrei Kuzmenko on leave from the Penguins?

Kuzmenko is on leave to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko, who was killed in a bear attack while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia.

What happened to Alexander Kuzmenko?

Alexander, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia. He was moved to a nearby settlement by his travel companions and airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl, where he could not be saved.

When did Kuzmenko sign with the Penguins and what is his contract?

Andrei Kuzmenko signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on July 1.

What are Kuzmenko’s recent playing and injury details?

Last season he had 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings and underwent surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.

Is there a confirmed return date for Kuzmenko?

No. The Penguins’ statement confirms he left to be with his family and says he has the organisation’s support; it does not provide a timeline for his return.

Coach Mark Comment

The coaching priority is straightforward: give the player space and support, while keeping the group prepared for the work in front of it. Pittsburgh can use internal options to cover any short-term absence and keep its plans flexible until Kuzmenko is ready to return.

IHM Final View

This is a sudden and tragic family bereavement for Andrei Kuzmenko. He practised with the Penguins before leaving for Moscow to be with his family, and the club has publicly offered its support while asking for privacy. For now, the focus is on Kuzmenko and his family rather than the Penguins’ on-ice plans.

Ovechkin a full participant in Capitals practice

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:54 CEST

Story Summary

Alex Ovechkin was a full participant for the Washington Capitals at practice on Thursday as he continues his recovery from a lower-body injury, coach Spencer Carbery said. The 41-year-old captain – the NHL record holder with 929 career goals – had left practice after 15 minutes on Wednesday after not skating the previous three days. Ovechkin has not yet played in the pre-season; Carbery said there is a chance he could play against the Boston Bruins on Friday but would consult athletic trainer Jason Serbus and would not definitively commit. With Washington’s pre-season finale scheduled at the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday and the regular-season opener at Carolina Hurricanes on Oct. 2, Ovechkin may not play before the season starts. Carbery described Thursday’s full participation as ” a good step” and said he does not believe it is essential for Ovechkin to play in the pre-season given the veteran’s experience.

Key Facts

Alex Ovechkin was a full participant for the Washington Capitals at practice on Thursday while recovering from a lower-body injury.
Coach Spencer Carbery said, ” It was a good sign. Participated fully, didn’t have to take any portions off, so that’s a good step.”
Ovechkin left practice after 15 minutes on Wednesday after not skating the previous three days because of the injury.
The 41-year-old left wing is the NHL record holder with 929 career goals and is entering his 22nd NHL season.
Ovechkin has not yet played in the pre-season; Carbery is unsure if Ovechkin will play against the Boston Bruins at Capital One Arena on Friday.
Carbery said, ” I’m not going to definitively say one way or another. There’s a chance, but I’ll talk to (athletic trainer Jason Serbus).”
Washington plays its pre-season finale at the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, making it possible Ovechkin won’t play before the regular-season opener at the Carolina Hurricanes on Oct. 2.
Carbery said he does not think it is essential for Ovechkin to play in the pre-season, adding, ” Ideally, I guess if you ask me one or the other, I would say ‘yes’, but I don’t think it’s a real definitive (necessity) just because he’s been through this so many times.”
A year ago Ovechkin missed the first four games of the pre-season because of a lower-body injury, returned for the final two, then played all 82 regular-season games and led the Capitals with 32 goals and 64 points.
Training camp is approximately a week shorter and the pre-season has been shortened to four games as part of the new Collective Bargaining Agreement.

IHM Discussion

Thursday’s full-practice participation is the clearest short-term indicator of Ovechkin’s recovery. Spencer Carbery called it “a good step”, noting that the forward completed the session without sitting out any portions. That encouraging sign comes after Ovechkin missed three days of skating and left Wednesday’s practice after 15 minutes.

Washington has only four pre-season games and a shorter training camp, leaving limited time before the opener. Ovechkin also missed the first four pre-season games last year with a lower-body injury before returning for the final two, then playing all 82 regular-season games and leading the Capitals with 32 goals and 64 points.

Carbery would not commit on Ovechkin’s availability against Boston, saying he would first speak with athletic trainer Jason Serbus. Ovechkin could still miss the remainder of the pre-season, but the coach said he was not worried about the captain being ready for the opener.

Why It Matters

Ovechkin’s availability matters to Washington’s offence and leadership. He led the Capitals with 32 goals and 64 points last season, underlining his continued importance to the lineup at age 41. Carbery’s comments indicate that the Capitals will weigh Ovechkin’s experience and readiness rather than treat pre-season action as essential.

Mini Q&A

Did Alex Ovechkin take part in Capitals practice?

Yes. Alex Ovechkin was a full participant for the Washington Capitals at practice on Thursday, coach Spencer Carbery said.

What is Ovechkin recovering from?

Ovechkin is recovering from a lower-body injury.

Has Ovechkin played in the pre-season yet?

No.

Will Ovechkin play against the Boston Bruins on Friday?

Coach Spencer Carbery said he would not definitively say one way or another; there is a chance, and Carbery will talk to athletic trainer Jason Serbus before deciding.

Could Ovechkin miss the pre-season entirely and still play the regular-season opener?

It is possible he won’t play before the regular-season opener at the Carolina Hurricanes on Oct. 2; the Capitals’ pre-season finale is on Saturday, and Ovechkin may not appear in either exhibition game.

How durable was Ovechkin last season?

Last season Ovechkin missed the first four pre-season games a year ago because of a lower-body injury but returned for the final two; he then played all 82 regular-season games and led the Capitals with 32 goals and 64 points.

Coach Mark Comment

A full practice is a useful progression, but it does not require an immediate pre-season appearance. For an experienced scorer such as Ovechkin, practice repetitions can help restore timing while the staff assesses how he responds before deciding on game action.

What Comes Next

Carbery said he would consult athletic trainer Jason Serbus about Ovechkin’s status; any decision about Ovechkin playing against the Boston Bruins on Friday will follow that discussion. Washington’s pre-season finale at the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday is the final exhibition opportunity before the regular-season opener at the Carolina Hurricanes on Oct. 2.

IHM Final View

Thursday’s full-practice participation is a positive step for Alex Ovechkin, but his game status remains unresolved. Carbery will speak with athletic trainer Jason Serbus before making a decision, and the Capitals can take a measured approach given Ovechkin’s experience and his full 82-game season last year.

McKenna builds on first pro point with Maple Leafs

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:51 CEST

Story Summary

Gavin McKenna, the 18-year-old Whitehorse, Yukon native selected No. 1 by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2026 NHL Draft, has made an encouraging start to his professional career. In Toronto’s 6-1 pre-season win against the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Arena, McKenna recorded his first professional point with an assist on a John Tavares goal. The rookie practised in Toronto on Thursday before travelling with the Maple Leafs to Arizona for a team-bonding trip led by captain Auston Matthews, including a workout at Mullett Arena – the 5,000-seat rink where McKenna made his Penn State debut on Oct. 3, 2025. After showing progress between his first two pre-season games, McKenna is looking ahead to the prospect of his first regular-season NHL game against the Montreal Canadiens next Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena.

Key Facts

Gavin McKenna is 18 and from Whitehorse, Yukon.
McKenna was selected No. 1 overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2026 NHL Draft.
McKenna recorded his first professional point with an assist on a John Tavares goal in Toronto’s 6-1 pre-season win against the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Arena.
Toronto lost McKenna’s Maple Leafs debut, a 4-1 pre-season loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
McKenna practised in Toronto on Thursday before the team flies to Arizona for a bonding trip led by Auston Matthews.
Part of the Arizona visit will include a workout at Mullett Arena in Tempe, Arizona – where McKenna had two assists in his Penn State debut on Oct. 3, 2025, a 6-3 win over Arizona State.
McKenna skated with linemates John Tavares and William Nylander during the pre-season game against Ottawa.
Maple Leafs coach Jim Hiller praised McKenna for being calmer and more composed in his second game.
General manager John Chayka described the Arizona trip as meaningful to Auston Matthews and a chance for the team to get to know each other better.
McKenna had 51 points (15 goals, 36 assists) in 35 games at Penn State, including 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in his final 19 games.
McKenna represented Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.
McKenna worked on footwork in the off-season in Vancouver, including on-ice sessions that involved Macklin Celebrini, and says skating was a key focus for him this summer.

IHM Discussion

McKenna’s early days with the Maple Leafs follow a whirlwind year. His Penn State debut in October 2025 preceded an uneven start to his freshman season, a strong finish with 33 points in his final 19 games, and an appearance for Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Toronto then selected him first overall in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Training camp and two pre-season games have offered early signs of adjustment. Jim Hiller highlighted McKenna’s calmness and composure in his second outing, while McKenna pointed to off-season work on his footwork and skating. Hiller also singled out his skating and straightaway speed.

McKenna skated with John Tavares and William Nylander against Ottawa and assisted on Tavares’s goal. It was a positive early moment for a young forward learning the pace and limited time and space of the NHL.

Why It Matters

For the Maple Leafs, McKenna’s early progress is encouraging as a No. 1 pick adapts to NHL demands. His skating, composure and ability to respond after a quieter first pre-season outing will remain closely watched.

For McKenna, the Arizona trip offers time with new teammates and a return to the rink where he made his Penn State debut. The prospect of a first regular-season game against Montreal would mark another significant step.

Fan Pulse

McKenna’s assist on Tavares’s goal and his more confident second pre-season outing gave Maple Leafs fans an encouraging early look at the No. 1 pick. A number of his friends and family are expected to attend if he makes his regular-season debut against Montreal at Scotiabank Arena.

Mini Q&A

What milestone did Gavin McKenna reach in the pre-season game against Ottawa?

McKenna recorded his first professional point with an assist on a John Tavares goal in Toronto’s 6-1 pre-season win against the Ottawa Senators.

Where will the Maple Leafs go for their team-bonding trip and why is it significant for McKenna?

The Maple Leafs will fly to Arizona for a bonding trip led by Auston Matthews that includes a workout at Mullett Arena – the same rink where McKenna had two assists in his Penn State debut on Oct. 3, 2025.

How did McKenna’s performance change between his first and second pre-season games?

Coach Jim Hiller said McKenna was calmer and more composed in his second game, showing improvement after a cautious debut in a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens and contributing offensively in the win over Ottawa.

What aspects of his game did McKenna work on over the summer?

McKenna focused on improving his footwork and skating in the off-season, including on-ice sessions in Vancouver that involved Macklin Celebrini.

When is McKenna expected to make his first regular-season NHL appearance?

McKenna said he is excited by the prospect of playing his first regular-season NHL game next Tuesday against the Montreal Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena (7 p.m. ET; SN, TVAS).

Coach Mark Comment

McKenna’s response from his first pre-season game to his second is the encouraging detail. Greater calmness with the puck gives a young forward a better chance to use his skating rather than simply reacting to the pace around him. The challenge now is to repeat those habits as the competition sharpens.

What Comes Next

The Maple Leafs will travel to Arizona for a team-bonding trip led by Auston Matthews that includes a workout at Mullett Arena on Saturday. McKenna is looking ahead to the prospect of playing his first regular-season NHL game against the Montreal Canadiens next Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena (7 p.m. ET; SN, TVAS).

IHM Final View

McKenna’s rise since his Penn State debut has been rapid. His first professional point, improved skating and more composed second pre-season outing are encouraging early signs. The Arizona trip and the possibility of a regular-season debut offer the next opportunities to assess how that progress carries forward.

Super 16: Most indispensable players for each team

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:50 CEST

Story Summary

The second pre-season Super 16 power rankings list the same 16 teams as last week with only minor changes in order and ask a single question: who is the most indispensable player on each club? Carolina sit top of the list after their Stanley Cup triumph, and Jordan Staal is named the Hurricanes’ indispensable figure – a Conn Smythe winner whose face-off, defensive and leadership work were decisive in the playoffs. Colorado are second, with Nathan MacKinnon described as the Avalanche’s tone-setter. Across the rankings, voters chose a mix of elite goalies, two-way centres and generational scorers as the players their teams cannot consistently win without, from Andrei Vasilevskiy in Tampa Bay to Macklin Celebrini in San Jose. The rankings include team point totals, last week’s positions and the voter-by-voter reasoning behind each selection.

Key Facts

The second pre-season Super 16 power ranking features the same 16 teams as last week, with minor order changes.
Carolina Hurricanes are ranked No. 1 with 230 total points; Jordan Staal is identified as Carolina’s most indispensable player.
Jordan Staal won the Conn Smythe Trophy in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, is 38 years old, and has played 1,403 NHL regular-season games and 181 playoff games; he led the Hurricanes with six goals in the Stanley Cup Final, is noted for winning key face-offs and shutting down opponents’ best lines, and is described as an extension of coach Rod Brind’Amour.
Colorado Avalanche are ranked No. 2 with 225 total points; voters named Nathan MacKinnon the Avalanche’s most indispensable player and described him as the team’s tone-setter.
Dallas Stars are No. 3 with 187 points; Wyatt Johnston is named their indispensable player after career highs of 45 goals, 86 points and 41 assists, and he led the NHL with 27 power-play goals in 82 games.
Florida Panthers are No. 4 with 181 points; Aleksander Barkov is their indispensable player, a three-time Selke Trophy winner (2021, 2024, 2025) who missed last season with a knee injury and the Panthers failed to qualify for the playoffs following two straight Stanley Cup championships.
Montreal Canadiens are No. 5 with 176 points; Nick Suzuki reached 101 points last season, won the Selke Trophy and had a streak of 537 consecutive games played since his 2019-20 debut.
Vegas Golden Knights are No. 6 with 163 points; Mitch Marner played 1,616:34 minutes last season, scored 80 points (24 goals, 56 assists) in 81 games, and led the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs with 29 points (10 goals, 19 assists) in 22 games.
Minnesota Wild are No. 7 with 148 points; Joel Eriksson Ek led the Wild with 681 face-off wins last season, averaged 19:05 per game – third among Minnesota forwards – and was plus-16. He produced five points (three goals, two assists) in the Western Conference First Round before a broken heel bone ended his playoff run in the series-clinching 5-2 Game 6 victory.
Tampa Bay Lightning are No. 8 with 146 points; Andrei Vasilevskiy is characterised as arguably the League’s most indispensable player, ranking (over nine consecutive playoff seasons) second in games played (508), first in wins (329), first in save percentage (.917) and goals-against average (2.48) among goalies with at least 200 games, and second in shutouts (38) among all goalies.
Buffalo Sabres are No. 9 with 132 points; captain Rasmus Dahlin had 74 points (19 goals, 55 assists) last season and is credited as the franchise’s heartbeat in ending a 15-year playoff drought.
Washington Capitals are No.

IHM Discussion

The Super 16 exercise underlines two consistent themes: elite teams are frequently defined by a single indispensable performer, and that performer can be very different in type. Some clubs point to a veteran two-way centre and dressing-room anchor – Jordan Staal in Carolina is the clearest example, credited with key face-offs, defensive shutdown ability and playoff-winning scoring. Others hang their fortunes on a generational offensive engine: Macklin Celebrini’s 115-point season for San Jose made him the unquestioned centrepiece of the Sharks’ future. Goalies also appear prominently: Andrei Vasilevskiy’s record across nine consecutive playoff seasons is presented as foundational to Tampa Bay’s contention.

The voters’ choices reflect roster construction as much as star power. Colorado’s pick of Nathan MacKinnon as a tone-setter recognises impact beyond raw numbers; Cale Makar and Devon Toews provide context, but MacKinnon is singled out for his night-to-night influence. Minnesota’s selection of Joel Eriksson Ek emphasises the glue, shutdown and face-off value that complements high-end skill elsewhere on the roster. In short, teams’ most indispensable players fall into three buckets in these rankings: leadership-and-shutdown centres, game-breaking offensive talents and elite goaltenders. That taxonomy helps explain why a team’s depth chart and contingency plans matter nearly as much as headline stars.

Why It Matters

Labelling one player as indispensable crystallises where each club believes its risk lies. The rankings make clear that losing certain individuals would not be a mere inconvenience but a potential season-shifting event: Carolina face a “massive void” when Staal is gone; Tampa Bay’s fortunes are described as immeasurably affected without Vasilevskiy; San Jose’s outlook is framed around Celebrini’s availability. It also provides practical signal points for opponents and general managers: teams built around a single type of influence – a tone-setting scorer or one elite goalie – must either protect that asset through roster depth or accept a fragility opponents will seek to exploit. Barkov’s missed season and Florida’s failure to make the playoffs capture the consequence of an indispensable player being unavailable.

Mini Q&A

What is the Super 16?

The Super 16 is a weekly power ranking of the League’s top 16 teams. This second pre-season edition uses votes from 15 contributors to rank teams and identify each team’s most indispensable player.

Which team is No. 1 and who is their most indispensable player?

The Carolina Hurricanes are ranked No. 1 with 230 points, and Jordan Staal is named their most indispensable player; he won the Conn Smythe Trophy and played a pivotal role in Carolina’s Stanley Cup run.

Who did voters pick as Colorado’s most indispensable player and why?

Voters picked Nathan MacKinnon as Colorado’s most indispensable player, describing him as the Avalanche’s tone-setter whose skill and drive set the team’s standard night in, night out.

Which young player is singled out as San Jose’s indispensable piece?

Macklin Celebrini is identified as San Jose’s indispensable player after a franchise-record 115 points (45 goals, 70 assists) last season, making him the engine of the Sharks’ offence.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, identifying an indispensable player is both acknowledgement and a call to action. Acknowledgement because those players – whether they win face-offs, control possession, bail out teammates or change momentum with elite scoring – are the ones who tilt game plans and practice emphases. A call to action because teams must prepare contingencies: replicate the player’s minutes in manageable packages, develop younger players into complementary roles, and adjust tactical deployment to protect the asset. Practically, that means mixing usage to reduce wear, preparing specific line combinations to cover a lost face-off or penalty-kill presence, and ensuring the power play and penalty kill have multiple reliable options rather than a single, irreplaceable creator.

What Comes Next

The rankings presented are the second pre-season Super 16; future weekly Super 16 polls will adjust order and, potentially, the sense of indispensability as training camps progress and regular-season availability becomes clearer.

IHM Final View

The Super 16 list is a useful snapshot: elite teams are often built around one indispensable figure, but the nature of that indispensability varies. Jordan Staal represents the veteran two-way leader whose absence is a loss of structure and shutdown ability; Nathan MacKinnon represents the engine whose tone and drive elevate a roster; Andrei Vasilevskiy represents the backbone that can sustain a team through long regular seasons and deep playoff runs. For rivals and roster builders alike, the lesson is the same – identify your indispensable pieces and build practical depth around them, because these rankings make plain how much hinges on a single player’s availability and form.

Philadelphia Flyers still hunting for a big piece

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:50 CEST

Story Summary

The Philadelphia Flyers remain in the market for a major addition, with general manager Danny Briere willing to explore a trade if the fit and acquisition cost are right. Dave Pagnotta said Philadelphia has been trying to add a big piece for some time, while stressing that any move must suit the club’s plans.

Philadelphia’s offer sheet to Leo Carlsson is part of that context. Carlsson signed the Flyers’ five-year offer sheet before the Anaheim Ducks matched it, keeping the centre in Anaheim. Pagnotta said the process paused other pursuits and that the Flyers missed out on some opportunities.

The Flyers’ outlook is also tied to their young talent, including Porter Martone and Matvei Michkov, and to the addition of goaltender Joseph Woll. Pagnotta believes the club has enough in place to keep looking for an impact addition rather than shying away from a major opportunity.

Key Facts

Dave Pagnotta said the Philadelphia Flyers are still looking to add a big piece to their roster.
The Flyers tendered Leo Carlsson a five-year offer sheet in July. Carlsson signed it, but the Anaheim Ducks matched the contract and retained him.
Pagnotta said the Carlsson offer sheet ”had to put a pause on a few things” and that Philadelphia ”lost out on a few things” as a result.
Pagnotta said Danny Briere remains willing to pursue an impact addition if the right player becomes available.
Pagnotta said the Flyers have money put away for a rainy day and appear prepared to deploy it for an impact addition.
The discussion included speculation linking the Flyers to Adam Fantilli, among other names floated in conversation.
Pagnotta suggested the Flyers will explore trades as well as other acquisition routes, subject to fit and asset cost.
Pagnotta singled out goaltending as a strength after the addition of Joseph Woll, calling the tandem a strong one.
The report references Matvei Michkov as a player whose progression could be important to Philadelphia’s outlook.
Porter Martone is identified as a key young player. The Flyers selected him sixth overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, and he made his NHL debut last season.

IHM Discussion

The Flyers appear willing to pursue an impact addition, but Pagnotta’s remarks also make clear that a deal would have to meet the club’s standards on fit and acquisition cost. Philadelphia’s offer sheet for Leo Carlsson illustrated Briere’s readiness to make an aggressive move, even though Anaheim ultimately matched the five-year contract and retained the centre.

The approach described is one of adding to a developing group rather than remaking the roster. Porter Martone and Matvei Michkov are among the young players cited as part of that foundation, while Joseph Woll’s arrival has strengthened the goaltending picture. Those elements give Philadelphia reason to examine opportunities for another significant addition.

For now, this is about intent rather than an imminent transaction. Pagnotta said the Flyers are prepared to explore the trade market, subject to the player, the fit and the price required.

Why It Matters

An impact forward could give Philadelphia more scoring support around its developing players, but the cost of any trade would remain central to the decision. The key question is whether a potential addition improves the club enough to justify the assets required to acquire him.

IHM Market Outlook

Philadelphia’s interest appears active but conditional. Pagnotta said the Flyers have money available and are willing to explore the trade market, while repeatedly noting that fit and acquisition cost will determine whether they act.

The Carlsson offer sheet showed that Briere is prepared to act aggressively when an opportunity appeals. However, Anaheim matched the five-year contract, so it stands as evidence of Philadelphia’s intent rather than a completed acquisition.

Mini Q&A

Are the Flyers actively pursuing a top forward?

Pagnotta said the Flyers remain willing to pursue a big piece if the fit and acquisition cost are acceptable.

Did the Flyers previously use an offer sheet on a prospect?

Yes. The Flyers tendered Leo Carlsson a five-year offer sheet in July. He signed it, but Anaheim matched the contract and retained him.

Will the Flyers consider trades?

Yes. Pagnotta said Philadelphia is willing to explore trades, subject to fit and acquisition cost.

Do the Flyers have financial flexibility?

Pagnotta said the organisation has money put away for a rainy day and appears prepared to deploy it for an impact addition.

Which young players did the report highlight as part of Philadelphia’s core?

The discussion highlighted Porter Martone, Matvei Michkov and goaltender Joseph Woll. Martone was the sixth overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and made his NHL debut last season.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, marrying a marquee forward to an emergent young core is as much about timing and role clarity as it is about pure talent. The Flyers need clear deployment plans that protect developing players while harvesting immediate scoring benefits. That means defining whom the newcomer plays with, what defensive responsibilities are non-negotiable, and how to manage minutes to avoid overexposing young skaters to late-game, high-pressure defensive situations. If the club balances those elements, a single high-end forward can elevate the whole group without sacrificing future growth.

What Comes Next

Philadelphia’s next step is to assess whether a suitable trade target becomes available at an acceptable cost. Until then, the focus remains on the club’s young players, its new goaltending tandem and the possibility of an opportunity that fits Briere’s plans.

IHM Final View

This is a report of intent, not a completed transaction. The Flyers appear willing to pursue an impact addition through trade if the fit and acquisition cost make sense. Until a target is identified or a deal is completed, the situation remains unresolved.

Patrick Kane to make Blackhawks pre-season debut vs Blues

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:49 CEST

Story Summary

Patrick Kane will make his pre-season debut for the Chicago Blackhawks at the St. Louis Blues on Thursday, likely his only appearance before the regular season. Coach Jeff Blashill said Chicago could hold Kane out of its final pre-season game against St. Louis on Saturday, allowing him to make his home debut on Oct. 6.

Key Facts

Patrick Kane will make his pre-season debut for the Blackhawks at the St. Louis Blues on Thursday (8 p.m. ET; CHSN) and that likely will be his only appearance prior to the start of the regular season.
Coach Jeff Blashill said there ” might be something like that” about holding Kane out of Chicago’s final pre-season home game so he could make his home debut Oct. 6 against St. Louis.
Kane is in his second stint with Chicago after signing a two-year, $16 million contract ($8 million average annual value) on July 23.
Kane was selected with the No. 1 pick in the 2007 NHL Draft and helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup three times (2010, 2013, 2015) during his 16 seasons with them (2007-23).
Chicago plays its regular-season opener at the Vegas Golden Knights on Sept. 29.

IHM Discussion

The Blackhawks are set to give Patrick Kane a measured pre-season introduction, with Thursday’s game in St. Louis likely to be his only exhibition appearance before the regular season. Blashill left open the possibility of resting Kane for Saturday’s home pre-season finale against the Blues, which would set up an Oct. 6 home debut.

Kane’s return comes in his second stint with Chicago after he signed a two-year, $16 million contract carrying an $8 million average annual value on July 23. The No. 1 pick in the 2007 NHL Draft helped the Blackhawks win three Stanley Cups during his first 16 seasons with the club.

Why It Matters

Thursday gives Kane an opportunity to get pre-season game action before Chicago opens its regular season at the Vegas Golden Knights on Sept. 29. The decision on Saturday’s finale will also determine whether his next appearance is the potential Oct. 6 home debut against St. Louis.

Mini Q&A

Will Patrick Kane play more than one pre-season game?

The Blackhawks expect Kane’s appearance at St. Louis on Thursday to likely be his only pre-season game prior to the regular season; coach Jeff Blashill said there ” might be something like that” about holding him out of the final home pre-season game so he’d make his home debut Oct. 6.

Coach Mark Comment

For a veteran entering a new stint with a club, one pre-season game can provide a useful game-speed check before the regular season. The priority is how he moves and responds in competitive shifts, rather than piling up exhibition minutes.

What Comes Next

Kane is scheduled to make his pre-season debut in St. Louis on Thursday. Chicago then hosts the Blues on Saturday before opening the regular season at Vegas on Sept. 29; Kane could make his home debut against St. Louis on Oct. 6.

IHM Final View

Kane’s pre-season debut is the clear focus for Chicago. With his appearance in St. Louis likely to be his only exhibition game, the Blackhawks are positioning him for the start of the regular season and a possible home debut on Oct. 6.

NHL Projected Lineups 24 September 2026 | IHM

NHL PROJECTED LINEUPS: GAME DAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2026

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:48 CEST

Latest update: All available projected units for today have been added.

Tonight’s IHM projected-lineup report covers 11 NHL games. Each matchup includes the latest starting-goaltender confidence, Power Play 1, Power Play 2 and unavailable-player information captured before game time. Late scratches and warm-up decisions can still change the final lineup.

11Games

12Confirmed goalies

10High-confidence goalies

71Unavailable listings

MATCHUP

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS VS BOSTON BRUINS

Home

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS: PROJECTED UNITS

PHI

🟢

Starting goalieJoseph Woll

Power Play 1

CP. Martone
LWT. Foerster
RWM. Michkov
LDT. Zegras
RDJ. Drysdale

Power Play 2

COwen Tippett
LWAlex Bump
RWT. Konecny
LDNoah Cates
RDD. Jiricek

Unavailable

CD. BarkeyOUT
GDan VladarOUT

Away

BOSTON BRUINS: PROJECTED UNITS

BOS

🟡

Starting goalieJeremy Swayman

Power Play 1

CPavel Zacha
LWE. Lindholm
RWD. Pastrnak
LDM. Geekie
RDMason Lohrei

Power Play 2

CF. Minten
LWC. Mittelstadt
RWJJ Peterka
LDH. Lindholm
RDM. Khusnutdinov

Unavailable

DC. McAvoyOUT
CM. PoitrasOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 4 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

DETROIT RED WINGS VS BUFFALO SABRES

Home

DETROIT RED WINGS: PROJECTED UNITS

DET

🟡

Starting goalieJohn Gibson

Power Play 1

CAndrew Copp
LWL. Raymond
RWA. DeBrincat
LDV. Arvidsson
RDM. Seider

Power Play 2

CE. Finnie
LWM. Brandsegg-Nygard
RWMarco Kasper
LDA. Sandin-Pellikka
RDJustin Faulk

Unavailable

LWCarter BearOUT
CDylan LarkinOUT

Away

BUFFALO SABRES: PROJECTED UNITS

BUF

🟢

Starting goalieAlex Lyon

Power Play 1

CT. Thompson
LWZach Benson
RWJack Quinn
LDR. Dahlin
RDJosh Doan

Power Play 2

CRyan McLeod
LWK. Helenius
RWJosh Norris
LDNoah Ostlund
RDOwen Power

Unavailable

GT. LeinonenOUT
DM. SamuelssonOUT
DO. ZellwegerOUT
LWJason ZuckerOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING VS FLORIDA PANTHERS

Home

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING: PROJECTED UNITS

TBL

🟢

Starting goalieA. Vasilevskiy

Power Play 1

CB. Point
LWJ. Guentzel
RWN. Kucherov
LDB. Hagel
RDJohn Carlson

Power Play 2

CA. Cirelli
LWI. Mikheyev
RWG. Goncalves
LDJ.J. Moser
RDV. Hedman

Unavailable

LWYanni GourdeOUT
LWD. JamesOUT

Away

FLORIDA PANTHERS: PROJECTED UNITS

FLA

🟢

Starting goalieCooper Black

Power Play 1

CA. Barkov
LWM. Tkachuk
RWSam Reinhart
LDB. TkachukOUT
RDSeth Jones

Power Play 2

CA. Lundell
LWE. Luostarinen
RWSam Bennett
LDC. Verhaeghe
RDAaron Ekblad

Unavailable

LWB. TkachukOUT
LWJ. GadjovichIR-LT
LWB. MarchandIR-LT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 5 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

CAROLINA HURRICANES VS NASHVILLE PREDATORS

Home

CAROLINA HURRICANES: PROJECTED UNITS

CAR

🟡

Starting goaliePyotr Kochetkov

Power Play 1

CS. Aho
LWA. Svechnikov
RWJ. Blake
LDN. Ehlers
RDS. Gostisbehere

Power Play 2

CM. Jankowski
LWTaylor Hall
RWL. Stankoven
LDK. Miller
RDSean Walker

Unavailable

RWSeth JarvisOUT
DA. NikishinOUT

Away

NASHVILLE PREDATORS: PROJECTED UNITS

NSH

🟡

Starting goalieJustus Annunen

Power Play 1

CR. O’Reilly
LWF. Forsberg
RWJ. Marchessault
LDS. Stamkos
RDRoman Josi

Power Play 2

CMatthew Wood
LWM. Bourque
RWN. Hoglander
LDBrady Skjei
RDRoss Colton

Unavailable

None listed

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 0 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 2 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

NEW YORK RANGERS VS NEW JERSEY DEVILS

Home

NEW YORK RANGERS: PROJECTED UNITS

NYR

🟢

Starting goalieJoonas Korpisalo

Power Play 1

CM. Zibanejad
LWJ.T. Miller
RWA. Lafreniere
LDP. Dorofeyev
RDAdam Fox

Power Play 2

CWill Cuylle
LWE. Tolvanen
RWO. Bjorkstrand
LDG. Perreault
RDSean Durzi

Unavailable

DV. IorioOUT
LWAdam SykoraOUT
CA. ThompsonOUT

Away

NEW JERSEY DEVILS: PROJECTED UNITS

NJD

🟢

Starting goalieNico Daws

Power Play 1

CJack Hughes
LWJesper Bratt
RWL. Evangelista
LDN. Hischier
RDLuke Hughes

Power Play 2

CE. Rodrigues
LWTimo Meier
RWA. Mantha
LDA. Gritsyuk
RDD. Hamilton

Unavailable

CN. BjugstadOUT
DJ. KovacevicOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 5 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS VS PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

Home

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: PROJECTED UNITS

CBJ

🟢

Starting goalieCam Talbot

Power Play 1

CC. Coyle
LWKent Johnson
RWC. Sillinger
LDZ. Werenski
RDK. Marchenko

Power Play 2

CSean Monahan
LWD. Voronkov
RWV. Nichushkin
LDD. Mateychuk
RDI. Provorov

Unavailable

CL. Del Bel BelluzOUT
DDante FabbroOUT
CA. FantilliOUT
CI. LundestromOUT
GE. MerzlikinsOUT
LWM. PyyhtiaOUT
DD. SeversonOUT
RWRiley BezeauIR-NR
DC. MacDonaldIR-NR

Away

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS: PROJECTED UNITS

PIT

🟢

Starting goalieSergei Murashov

Power Play 1

CS. Crosby
LWR. Rakell
RWE. Malkin
LDBryan Rust
RDE. Karlsson

Power Play 2

CV. Koivunen
LWE. Chinakhov
RWF. Hallander
LDThomas Novak
RDKris Letang

Unavailable

LWJ. BrazeauOUT
CBen KindelOUT
LWA. KuzmenkoOUT
LWB. LizotteOUT
LWO. OkuliarOUT
GG. D’AigleIR-NR
RWM. FernstromIR-NR

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 16 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

ST. LOUIS BLUES VS CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

Home

ST. LOUIS BLUES: PROJECTED UNITS

STL

🟢

Starting goalieJ. Binnington

Power Play 1

CR. Thomas
LWD. Holloway
RWJ. Snuggerud
LDP. Broberg
RDM. McTavish

Power Play 2

CD. Dvorsky
LWP. Buchnevich
RWC. McMichael
LDJ. Neighbours
RDL. Mailloux

Unavailable

DTyler TuckerOUT
RWAdam JechoIR-NR
DTorey KrugIR-LT

Away

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS: PROJECTED UNITS

CHI

🟡

Starting goalieArvid Soderblom

Power Play 1

CA. Frondell
LWT. Bertuzzi
RWPatrick Kane
LDR. Kantserov
RDBowen Byram

Power Play 2

CRyan Donato
LWNick Lardis
RWFrank Nazar
LDOliver Moore
RDA. Levshunov

Unavailable

CC. BedardOUT
LWJ. GreenwayOUT
DRyan EllisIR

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

VANCOUVER CANUCKS VS EDMONTON OILERS

Home

VANCOUVER CANUCKS: PROJECTED UNITS

VAN

🟢

Starting goalieNikita Tolopilo

Power Play 1

CE. Pettersson
LWJake DeBrusk
RWBrock Boeser
LDMarco Rossi
RDFilip Hronek

Power Play 2

CL. Karlsson
LWLiam Ohgren
RWJ. Lekkerimaki
LDZeev Buium
RDFilip Chytil

Unavailable

LWM. MacEachernOUT
GT. DemkoIR

Away

EDMONTON OILERS: PROJECTED UNITS

EDM

🟡

Starting goalieTristan Jarry

Power Play 1

CC. McDavid
LWL. Draisaitl
RWZach Hyman
LDR. Nugent-Hopkins
RDE. Bouchard

Power Play 2

CColton Dach
LWV. Podkolzin
RWIsaac Howard
LDM. Ekholm
RDJake Walman

Unavailable

GF. AndersenOUT
DAlec RegulaOUT
CMatt SavoieOUT
CM. JanmarkIR

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

SEATTLE KRAKEN VS CALGARY FLAMES

Home

SEATTLE KRAKEN: PROJECTED UNITS

SEA

🟡

Starting goalieJoey Daccord

Power Play 1

CM. Beniers
LWJared McCann
RWJ. Eberle
LDC. Stephenson
RDB. Montour

Power Play 2

CShane Wright
LWBobby McMann
RWKaapo Kakko
LDVince Dunn
RDM. Samoskevich

Unavailable

CJake O’BrienDTD

Away

CALGARY FLAMES: PROJECTED UNITS

CGY

🟡

Starting goalieDevin Cooley

Power Play 1

CMorgan Frost
LWJoel Farabee
RWM. Coronato
LDM. Gridin
RDZayne Parekh

Power Play 2

CRyan Strome
LWConnor Zary
RWM. Tsyplakov
LDY. Sharangovich
RDSimon Nemec

Unavailable

DHenry MewsDTD
LWJ. HuberdeauIR

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 0 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 3 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

SAN JOSE SHARKS VS ANAHEIM DUCKS

Home

SAN JOSE SHARKS: PROJECTED UNITS

SJS

🟢

Starting goalieAlex Nedeljkovic

Power Play 1

CM. Celebrini
LWI. Chernyshov
RWWill Smith
LDM. Marchment
RDDmitry Orlov

Power Play 2

CMichael Misa
LWI. Stenberg
RWCollin Graf
LDT. Toffoli
RDJacob Trouba

Unavailable

CA. Barre-BouletOUT
CA. GaudetteOUT
RWP. GilesOUT
GKyle KeyserOUT
CCameron LundOUT
LWQ. MustyOUT
CL. CoutureIR

Away

ANAHEIM DUCKS: PROJECTED UNITS

ANA

🟡

Starting goalieVille Husso

Power Play 1

CLeo Carlsson
LWB. Sennecke
RWC. Gauthier
LDM. Granlund
RDJ. LaCombe

Power Play 2

CR. Poehling
LWAlex Killorn
RWN. Klepov
LDF. Vatrano
RDP. Mintyukov

Unavailable

LWA.J. GreerOUT
DD. HellesonOUT
DIan MooreOUT
RWTroy TerryOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 11 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS VS UTAH MAMMOTH

Home

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS: PROJECTED UNITS

VGK

🟢

Starting goalieAdin Hill

Power Play 1

CJack Eichel
LWTomas Hertl
RWMitch Marner
LDMark Stone
RDS. Theodore

Power Play 2

CW. Karlsson
LWV. Olofsson
RWB. Bowman
LDR. Andersson
RDT. Connelly

Unavailable

CR. LavoieDTD
DL. CormierOUT
CB. HemmerlingOUT
CKai UchaczOUT
DA. PietrangeloIR-LT

Away

UTAH MAMMOTH: PROJECTED UNITS

UTA

🟡

Starting goalieSebastian Cossa

Power Play 1

CN. Schmaltz
LWC. Keller
RWD. Guenther
LDM. Sergachev
RDLogan Cooley

Power Play 2

CB. Hayton
LWK. Yamamoto
RWV. Trocheck
LDAnders Lee
RDJohn Marino

Unavailable

CM. CarconeOUT
DM. LamoureuxOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 7 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?

They are the latest expected player combinations, starting-goaltender decisions and special-teams units available before puck drop.

What does a green goalie marker mean?

Green means the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed when IceHockeyMan captured the lineup snapshot.

What does a yellow goalie marker mean?

Yellow means High Confidence: the goaltender was listed as expected but can still change before the game.

Why are power-play units included?

PP1 and PP2 show the current special-teams hierarchy and the players expected to receive power-play usage.

Can the lineup change after publication?

Yes. Warm-ups, late scratches and coaching decisions can alter the final lineup before faceoff.

Why does IHM show unavailable players?

The list gives readers immediate context about absences that may affect projected units and special-teams roles.

IHM Status Guide

🟢Green – Confirmed: the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed at the time of the IHM snapshot.

🟡Yellow – High Confidence: the starting goaltender was listed as expected and remains subject to a late change.

Mark Messier says NHL ‘gets better and better every year’

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 10:03 CEST

Story Summary

opening-night tripleheader on Sept. 29 will feature the reigning Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes hosting the Florida Panthers (5 p.m. ET), followed by the Boston Bruins at the New York Rangers (8 p.m. ET) and the Vegas Golden Knights hosting the Chicago Blackhawks (10:30 p.m. ET). Carolina will raise its 2026 Stanley Cup banner and carry essentially the same roster that won the title, minus goalie Frederik Andersen, while still having Brandon Bussi and Pyotr Kochetkov in net.

Key Facts

opening-night tripleheader on Sept. 29 begins with Carolina Hurricanes vs. Florida Panthers at 5 p.m. ET, then Boston Bruins vs. New York Rangers at 8 p.m. ET, and Vegas Golden Knights vs. Chicago Blackhawks at 10:30 p.m. ET (the final game on ESPN2, TVAS2).
Mark Messier, Hockey Hall of Famer and six-time Stanley Cup winner, said ” the game and the NHL just gets better and better every year.”
Carolina will raise its 2026 Stanley Cup banner on opening night and will aim to repeat with essentially the same roster, other than goalie Frederik Andersen signing with Edmonton.
Florida Panthers won Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025 and missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season after being besieged by injuries.
The Panthers acquired forward Brady Tkachuk in a trade with the Ottawa Senators to join brother Matthew Tkachuk.
Florida also acquired goalie Jacob Markstrom in a trade with the New Jersey Devils to replace Sergei Bobrovsky, who signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Brad Marchand is expected to miss the start of the season for the Panthers with an unspecified injury.
Brandon Bussi won the last three games of the Stanley Cup Final for Carolina against the Vegas Golden Knights; Carolina also has Pyotr Kochetkov in net.

IHM Discussion

The opening-night slate is both a showcase and an early measuring stick for two clubs with recent championship pedigree. Carolina arrives with continuity from the roster that won the Stanley Cup in 2026. Frederik Andersen’s departure to Edmonton removes experience in goal, but the Hurricanes still have Brandon Bussi, who won the final three games of the Cup Final, and Pyotr Kochetkov. Ferraro praised Carolina for building and acquiring players who fit its way of playing.

Florida’s focus is on returning to form. After reaching three consecutive Finals and winning in 2024 and 2025, the Panthers missed the playoffs last season amid injuries. Much of the core remains, with Brady Tkachuk joining his brother Matthew and Jacob Markstrom arriving to replace Sergei Bobrovsky. Messier pointed to Florida’s consistency and character, while Ferraro identified consistent, predictable goaltending from Markstrom as an important question.

Messier’s enthusiasm reflects the range of storylines entering a new season: young teams seeking a breakthrough, veteran groups trying to sustain their level and continued player movement. Those questions will be answered over the regular season and playoffs, not on opening night alone.

Why It Matters

Opening night offers an early look at off-season changes and roster continuity. Carolina can begin its title defence without Andersen, while Florida will start with Brady Tkachuk and Markstrom among its significant additions.

Fan Pulse

Carolina’s banner raising and matchup with Florida will draw particular attention on opening night. Panthers followers will watch how Brady Tkachuk fits with his brother Matthew and how Markstrom performs in his new setting. The game also gives viewers an early look at two teams Ferraro described as among the League’s best.

Mini Q&A

When does ESPN’s opening-night tripleheader take place?

The tripleheader begins on Sept. 29, with Carolina vs. Florida at 5 p.m. ET, Bruins vs. Rangers at 8 p.m. ET, and Golden Knights vs. Blackhawks at 10:30 p.m. ET.

What did Mark Messier say about the upcoming season?

Mark Messier said he is more excited at the start of every season and that ” the game and the NHL just gets better and better every year.”

Which teams are highlighted as opening-night headliners?

The reigning Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes and the Florida Panthers headline the tripleheader.

What roster changes for Florida does the source mention?

Florida acquired forward Brady Tkachuk in a trade with the Ottawa Senators and acquired goalie Jacob Markstrom in a trade with the New Jersey Devils; Sergei Bobrovsky signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Who will not be on Carolina’s roster from last season’s Cup-winning group?

Goaltender Frederik Andersen signed with Edmonton and will not be with Carolina.

Coach Mark Comment

Carolina’s continuity should help it begin the season with a familiar structure and established habits. Florida will be integrating Brady Tkachuk and Markstrom while seeking the consistent goaltending Ferraro identified as important. In an opening-night matchup, clean puck management and defensive support can help either side settle into its game.

What Comes Next

The season-opening tripleheader on Sept. 29, which includes Carolina vs. Florida at 5 p.m. ET, is the immediate checkpoint for the narratives discussed by Messier and Ferraro.

IHM Final View

opening-night tripleheader is an early showcase for two recent Stanley Cup winners. Carolina begins with substantial roster continuity, while Florida enters with Brady Tkachuk and Markstrom among its key changes. Messier’s optimism about the League and Ferraro’s focus on goaltending frame two of the major storylines entering 2026-27.

Pirates’ Spencer Horwitz Skates with Evgeni Malkin

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 10:01 CEST

Story Summary

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz spent time on the ice at the Pittsburgh Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin, appearing in a social-media video posted by the Pirates.

Key Facts

Spencer Horwitz is a first baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Horwitz skated at the Pittsburgh Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin.
The Pirates posted a social-media video of the skate session.
In the video Horwitz told Malkin, “Put me through the practice, I’m ready.”
Malkin responded, “I’m not the coach yet. I’m still a good player.”
Horwitz played as a defenseman in high school hockey and led his team to two state titles.
On-ice in the clip, Horwitz showed stick handling and shot at an open net while wearing Penguins gear.

IHM Discussion

The skate session is a straightforward human-interest moment that underscores Horwitz’s multi-sport background and the informal connections between professional athletes across leagues. The video, posted by the Pirates, captures Horwitz returning to a sport he played through high school; the quotes exchanged with Malkin frame the visit as playful rather than formal instruction. For hockey observers the item is notable because it involves Evgeni Malkin, a high-profile NHL player, and because it documents a non-hockey professional athlete visibly maintaining on-ice skills such as stick handling and shooting.

Why It Matters

This matters as light, cross-sport content: it highlights how athletic skills endure beyond a player’s chosen professional path and provides a moment of fan engagement for both Pirates and Penguins followers. The video also emphasises the local sporting culture in Pittsburgh, where athletes from different disciplines can interact at shared facilities.

Mini Q&A

Who skated together at the Penguins practice facility?

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz skated at the Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin.

Who shared the skate-session video?

The Pittsburgh Pirates shared the video, including the on-ice footage and exchange between Horwitz and Malkin.

What did Horwitz do on the ice?

Horwitz showed stick handling, wore Penguins gear and took shots at an open net in the video.

Did Malkin coach Horwitz in the clip?

No. In the video Malkin responded to Horwitz by saying, “I’m not the coach yet. I’m still a good player.”

Coach Mark Comment

Horwitz’s skate is a useful reminder of the value of multi-sport development. His background as a high-school defenceman is evident in the comfort he showed handling the puck and shooting in an informal setting.

George Gillett Jr., former Canadiens owner, dies at 87

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 10:00 CEST

Story Summary

George N. Gillett Jr., the American businessman who owned the Montreal Canadiens from 2001 to 2009, has died at age 87, the Canadiens announced. His tenure included several notable moments in franchise history, including Saku Koivu’s return after cancer on April 9, 2002, the renaming of the arena to Bell Centre on Sept. 1, 2002, and the start of preparations for the club’s centennial season in 2009-10. Canadiens owner, president and CEO Geoff Molson and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman paid tribute to Gillett’s commitment to Montreal and his contributions to the game. Gillett bought the team and its arena on Jan. 31, 2001, and sold the Canadiens, Bell Centre and Groupe Spectacles Gillett on June 20, 2009, to Molson and a consortium of investors.

Key Facts

George N. Gillett Jr. died at age 87, the Montreal Canadiens announced on social media.
Gillett Jr. owned the Montreal Canadiens from 2001 to 2009.
He became owner of the Canadiens and the arena on Jan. 31, 2001, paying Molson Inc. C$275 million for 80.1 per cent of the club and full ownership of the arena.
Gillett Jr. sold the Canadiens, their arena and Groupe Spectacles Gillett to Geoff Molson and a consortium on June 20, 2009.
During his ownership the Canadiens posted a record of 254-198-52 with 18 ties; the 18 ties occurred before the shootout was introduced following the 2004-05 lost season.
Montreal reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs five times in Gillett Jr.’s six-and-a-half seasons, losing three Eastern Conference Semifinal series and two Quarterfinal rounds.
Notable moments during his tenure include Saku Koivu’s return after beating cancer on April 9, 2002, and the renaming of the team’s arena to Bell Centre on Sept. 1, 2002.
Gillett Jr. oversaw the start of preparations for the Canadiens’ 2009-10 centennial season.
Born Oct. 22, 1938, in Racine, Wisconsin, Gillett Jr. began working in 1948; he recalled his first job picking weeds in a Racine onion patch for his great-uncle Wally.
The Canadiens initially faced criticism after his purchase, including reminders of a 1992 bankruptcy from which he recovered and objections that an American owned the provincial franchise.
Gillett Jr. owned the Harlem Globetrotters and recalled their 100-99 overtime loss to the New Jersey Reds in March 1971 that ended a 2,495-game winning streak.

IHM Discussion

George Gillett Jr.’s tenure with the Canadiens combined commercial ambition with an evident attachment to the club’s history and people. He arrived amid scepticism, prompted by his 1992 bankruptcy and by objections to an American owning a Quebec institution, but gradually earned greater respect through his engagement with alumni, fans and civic traditions.

He acquired the franchise and arena in early 2001 and, over the following six and a half seasons, the Canadiens posted a winning regular-season record and made five playoff appearances. The team did not advance beyond the Eastern Conference Semifinals during his ownership, but the period included Saku Koivu’s return after cancer, the arena’s renaming as Bell Centre and preparations for the 2009-10 centennial season. His interest in alumni, the engraved bricks outside the arena and the statues honouring franchise icons reflected his appreciation of the club’s heritage.

Gillett Jr. also relished the theatre of sport. His recollection of the Harlem Globetrotters’ 1971 loss and the Doug Gilmour prank involving broken penalty-box glass illustrated his sense of humour. By the time he accepted Sports Media Canada’s executive of the year award in 2008, he was able to joke publicly about the criticism that had greeted his arrival in Montreal.

Why It Matters

Gillett Jr.’s death marks the passing of an owner whose time with the Canadiens coincided with enduring institutional moments: an arena rebrand, Koivu’s celebrated return and preparations for the centennial season. His attention to alumni, public ceremonies and ties to the city left cultural traces beyond the team’s record. For a franchise whose history is central to Canadian hockey, those traditions remain an important part of how major milestones are remembered.

Mini Q&A

When did George Gillett Jr. own the Montreal Canadiens?

He owned the Canadiens from 2001 until June 20, 2009; he became owner on Jan. 31, 2001.

How did the Canadiens perform during Gillett Jr.’s ownership?

Under his ownership the team had a record of 254-198-52 with 18 ties and reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs five times in his six-and-a-half seasons, losing three Eastern Conference Semifinal series and two Quarterfinal rounds.

What notable franchise events occurred while he was owner?

Notable events included Saku Koivu’s return after beating cancer on April 9, 2002, the renaming of the arena to Bell Centre on Sept. 1, 2002, and the start of preparations for the Canadiens’ centennial season in 2009-10.

Did Gillett Jr. own other sports properties?

Yes.

How did the Canadiens and the NHL respond to his death?

Canadiens owner Geoff Molson issued a statement offering condolences and praising Gillett’s immersion in the Montreal community. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also paid tribute, noting Gillett’s passion for the Canadiens and his contributions to the game.

Coach Mark Comment

Owners are not simply balance-sheet figures; they shape the daily culture that staff and players inhabit. That cultural work rarely shows up in standings alone but matters to cohesion and institutional memory.

IHM Final View

George Gillett Jr. arrived in Montreal amid controversy and left a complex but visible legacy. He combined business interests with evident affection for the Canadiens’ history and people, presided over important institutional milestones and earned respect within the organisation over time. His death closes a distinctive chapter in the club’s modern era, shaped by commemoration, community and on-ice competition.