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IHM NHL News: Sam Steel signs four-year, $14.8 million deal with Stars

Sam Steel signs four-year, $14.8 million deal with Stars

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Sam Steel signed a four-year, $14.8 million contract with the Dallas Stars on Monday, a deal that begins next season and carries an average annual value of $3.7 million. The 28-year-old forward set NHL career highs last season with 12 goals, 21 assists and 33 points in 73 regular-season games. Steel had no points in six Stanley Cup Playoff games and this was his third season with Dallas. General manager Jim Nill praised Steel’s consistency, penalty-killing work and versatility when announcing the extension.

Key Facts

  • Sam Steel signed a four-year contract with the Dallas Stars worth $14.8 million.
  • The contract begins next season and has an average annual value (AAV) of $3.7 million.
  • Steel is 28 years old.
  • He set NHL career highs last season with 12 goals, 21 assists and 33 points in 73 regular-season games.
  • Steel had no points in six Stanley Cup Playoff games last season.
  • Last season was Steel’s third with the Dallas Stars.
  • Steel could have become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027.
  • General manager Jim Nill said: “We couldn’t be happier to extend Sam. His consistency during his time with our team, especially on the penalty kill, plus his versatility has made him a valuable asset to our organization, and we’re happy to be locking him up for the next four seasons.”
  • Steel was a first-round pick (No. 30) by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2016 NHL Draft.
  • He has 175 points (61 goals, 114 assists) in 491 regular-season games with the Ducks, Minnesota Wild and Stars.
  • Steel has 14 points (three goals, 11 assists) in 48 playoff games.
  • Dallas opens the regular season at home against the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 2.

IHM Discussion

The Stars have converted Sam Steel’s most productive season into a multi-year commitment. The deal preserves roster continuity while removing the possibility of Steel reaching unrestricted free agency in 2027. Jim Nill’s remarks singled out Steel’s penalty-killing work and versatility as central to the extension, indicating that Dallas values his ability to contribute on special teams and in different situations.

Why It Matters

Locking Steel to a four-year deal keeps a 28-year-old forward who posted career highs last season under club control. The Stars retain a player they view as consistent on the penalty kill and versatile in their forward group.

Mini Q&A

What are the terms of Sam Steel’s new contract?

Sam Steel signed a four-year contract worth $14.8 million in total, beginning next season and carrying an average annual value of $3.7 million.

Why did the Stars choose to extend him?

General manager Jim Nill cited Steel’s consistency with the team, especially on the penalty kill, and his versatility as the reasons for the extension.

How did Steel perform last season?

Steel set NHL career highs with 12 goals, 21 assists and 33 points in 73 regular-season games, and he recorded no points in six Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Could Steel have become a free agent?

Yes. Steel could have become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027, before this extension was signed.

Coach Mark Comment

For a coaching staff, a penalty-killing forward who can handle different assignments has clear value. Keeping Steel under contract provides continuity when building special-teams units and balancing the forward group.

What Comes Next

Dallas plays its regular-season opener at home against the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 2.

Fantasy hockey top 250 rankings for 2026-27

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

The Fantasy Hockey Staff has published a top-250 fantasy hockey ranking for the 2026-27 season for standard leagues. The collaborative list, produced by Pete Jensen, Chris Meaney and Troy Perlowitz, places Connor McDavid at No. 1, Nathan MacKinnon at No. 2 and Nikita Kucherov at No. 3, with Macklin Celebrini at No. 4 and Leon Draisaitl at No. 5. The list runs from McDavid through Tristan Jarry at No. 250 and identifies rookies, suspended players and those flagged as injured. Value is quantified using factors including past production, line combinations, power-play usage, team goalie situations, anticipated start volume, projected goal support, injury history, age, contract status and upside for 2026-27.

Key Facts

  • The Fantasy Hockey Staff published a top-250 player ranking for standard fantasy leagues for 2026-27.
  • The rankings were assembled collaboratively by Pete Jensen, Chris Meaney and Troy Perlowitz.
  • Connor McDavid is ranked No. 1 overall; Nathan MacKinnon is No. 2; Nikita Kucherov is No. 3; Macklin Celebrini is No. 4; Leon Draisaitl is No. 5.
  • The list names 250 players, from top skaters and goalies through late-round options such as Tristan Jarry at No. 250.
  • Standard fantasy categories cited are goals, assists, power-play points, shots on goal, hits and blocked shots for skaters; wins, goals-against average, save percentage and shutouts for goalies.
  • Value was quantified based on past production (regular season and playoffs), line combinations, defence pairs, power-play usage, team goalie situations, anticipated start volume, projected goal support, injury history or concern, age, contract status and overall upside.
  • Notable top-15 placements include Cale Makar at No. 7, Kirill Kaprizov at No. 8, Jason Robertson at No. 9 and Evan Bouchard at No. 10.
  • Top-ranked goalies include Andrei Vasilevskiy at No. 11, Igor Shesterkin at No. 41 and Jesper Wallstedt at No. 56.
  • The list marks specific statuses where applicable: Connor Hellebuyck, G, WPG (suspended); Dylan Larkin, F, DET (INJ.); Connor Bedard, F, CHI (INJ.); and others flagged as injured or rookie.
  • The list explicitly labels later-ranked rookies including Gavin McKenna at No. 98, alongside other rookies throughout the board.

IHM Discussion

The top-250 list offers a framework for standard-category drafts. The first five places are Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Nikita Kucherov, Macklin Celebrini and Leon Draisaitl. Positional context is spread across the board, with defencemen such as Cale Makar (No. 7), Quinn Hughes (No. 12) and Rasmus Dahlin (No. 29), while Andrei Vasilevskiy sits at No. 11 and Igor Shesterkin at No. 41. Rookie, injury and suspension labels add useful context when weighing players against one another.

Why It Matters

For standard-league drafters, the rankings set out the categories that shape player value across skater and goaltender slots. The stated factors – including line combinations, power-play usage and anticipated start volume – provide context for comparing opportunity and production. Rookie labels and injury markers also help managers balance upside against immediate reliability.

Mini Q&A

Who is ranked No. 1 in the fantasy top 250 for 2026-27?

Connor McDavid is ranked No. 1 overall.

Which players occupy the top five positions?

The top five are Connor McDavid (No. 1), Nathan MacKinnon (No. 2), Nikita Kucherov (No. 3), Macklin Celebrini (No. 4) and Leon Draisaitl (No. 5).

What scoring categories does this ranking use for skaters and goalies?

Standard fantasy categories listed are goals, assists, power-play points, shots on goal, hits and blocked shots for skaters, and wins, goals-against average, save percentage and shutouts for goalies.

How was value quantified for the rankings?

Value was quantified using factors including past production in the regular season and playoffs, line combinations, defence pairs, power-play usage, team goalie situations, anticipated start volume, projected goal support, injury history, age, contract status and overall upside for 2026-27.

What related fantasy content is available?

Related coverage includes a fantasy mock draft, podcast and season-preview podcasts.

Coach Mark Comment

In formats using these categories, power-play usage and projected goalie volume can be decisive tiebreakers. Drafters should also avoid chasing one category at the expense of a balanced roster across the scoring settings.

What Comes Next

Related fantasy content includes a mock draft, podcast coverage and season-preview podcasts.

IHM Final View

The top 250 list functions as a robust starting point for standard-category fantasy drafts, translating on-ice roles and opportunity into projected fantasy value. Its transparent methodology and explicit status flags for injuries, suspensions and rookie designation give drafters the context needed to balance upside and reliability across early and late rounds.

Ovechkin day-to-day with lower-body injury, pre-season uncertain

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Alex Ovechkin may not play in the pre-season because of a lower-body injury. The 41-year-old Washington Capitals left wing missed practice Monday for a second straight day and is day to day as he begins his 22nd NHL season. Ovechkin has been practising with Dylan Strome and Ryan Leonard in training camp, while coach Spencer Carbery said he expects a clearer update after two practice days.

Key Facts

  • Alex Ovechkin may not play in the pre-season because of a lower-body injury.
  • The 41-year-old left wing did not practice Monday for the second straight day and is day to day.
  • Ovechkin has been practising on a line with Dylan Strome and Ryan Leonard in training camp.
  • Capitals coach Spencer Carbery said: ” Right now, we’ll see how it goes this week. We’ll be off tomorrow and then we’ll come back and have two practice days, so I’ll be able to give you a more accurate update (after that) on when we see him play and how many games.”
  • After playing the Philadelphia Flyers in Hershey, Pennsylvania, on Monday, Washington will have two pre-season games remaining: at home against the Boston Bruins on Friday and at Philadelphia on Saturday.

IHM Discussion

Washington are taking a cautious approach with Alex Ovechkin after the veteran missed consecutive practices with a lower-body injury. There is no timetable beyond his day-to-day designation, and Spencer Carbery was not ready to say whether he will play in the pre-season.

Ovechkin had been skating with Dylan Strome and Ryan Leonard in camp, so his absence limits the time that group can spend together before the season. Carbery said Washington will have two practice days before he can offer a more accurate update on Ovechkin’s availability and potential pre-season workload.

Why It Matters

Ovechkin’s availability matters because Washington have been using him alongside Dylan Strome and Ryan Leonard in camp. Any missed practice or pre-season time reduces opportunities to assess that combination in game conditions, though Carbery has not set a timeline for his return.

Mini Q&A

What is Alex Ovechkin’s injury status?

Alex Ovechkin is day to day with a lower-body injury and did not practice Monday for the second straight day; the Capitals said he may not play in the pre-season.

How old is Ovechkin and what season is he beginning?

Ovechkin is 41 years old and is beginning his 22nd NHL season.

Which line had Ovechkin been practising on in camp?

Ovechkin had been practising on a line with Dylan Strome and Ryan Leonard.

What did Capitals coach Spencer Carbery say about Ovechkin’s availability?

Carbery said: ” Right now, we’ll see how it goes this week. We’ll be off tomorrow and then we’ll come back and have two practice days, so I’ll be able to give you a more accurate update (after that) on when we see him play and how many games.”

What are the Capitals’ remaining pre-season games mentioned in the report?

After playing the Philadelphia Flyers in Hershey on Monday, Washington will have two pre-season games remaining: at home against the Boston Bruins on Friday and at Philadelphia on Saturday.

Coach Mark Comment

The sensible camp approach is to avoid forcing a veteran into exhibition action before he is ready. Washington can continue to evaluate other combinations while monitoring whether Ovechkin is able to resume practice.

What Comes Next

Carbery expects to provide a more accurate update after Washington’s two practice days. – Washington’s remaining pre-season games are at home against the Boston Bruins on Friday and at Philadelphia on Saturday.

IHM Final View

Ovechkin’s status remains uncertain rather than alarming: he is day to day with a lower-body injury after missing two practices, and Carbery has not committed to him playing in the pre-season. Washington expect to know more after two practice days.

IHM NHL Rumors: Canadiens primed to buy; any move requires swap

Canadiens primed to buy; any move requires swap

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

The Montréal Canadiens are projected to build cap flexibility through the early months of the 2026-27 season and could be active buyers, although any addition is likely to require an outgoing player. Marco D’Amico outlined a baseline of roughly $3.6 million in cap space before roster adjustments, falling to an estimated $2.7-2.8 million if Kaiden Guhle begins the season on injured reserve and a replacement defenceman is retained. He projected that figure could grow to about $7.9-8 million by November or December and roughly $16 million by the trade deadline.

D’Amico’s view is that Montréal’s depth – approximately 13 forwards, eight defencemen and two goaltenders counting against the cap – leaves little room for a straight addition. Any acquisition would therefore likely mean money going out as well as coming in.

Key Facts

  • Marco D’Amico outlined Montréal’s projected cap and roster picture for 2026-27.
  • Marco D’Amico reports the Canadiens have about $3.6 million in cap space before roster adjustments.
  • D’Amico projects around $2.7-2.8 million in available cap space if Kaiden Guhle begins the season on injured reserve and the club retains a replacement defenceman.
  • D’Amico counts the Canadiens, at season start, as likely to have 13 forwards, eight defencemen and two goalies on the roster.
  • D’Amico projects that the Canadiens’ cap space could increase to about $7.9-8 million by November or December.
  • D’Amico suggests the Canadiens could have roughly $16 million in cap space by the trade deadline.
  • D’Amico’s assessment: because Montréal is so deep at every position, any roster addition will require a “money in, money out” transaction.
  • The source specifically references past anchors – Carey Price’s contract and Patrik Laine last year – to contrast the current situation.

IHM Discussion

The central point is straightforward: Montréal is projected to generate more salary-cap room as the 2026-27 season develops, but its roster construction may leave little space for a simple addition. D’Amico’s estimates point to modest flexibility at the outset, more room by late autumn and potentially substantial capacity at the trade deadline.

The roster count is the key constraint. If Montréal is already carrying a full group at each position, an incoming player would require a corresponding departure or another roster move. That makes timing important: smaller adjustments may be more realistic early, while larger moves could become possible once cap space has accrued.

The projections remain conditional, but they outline a club with potential buying power rather than one restricted solely by a cap burden.

Why It Matters

If those projections hold, Montréal could have the flexibility to pursue help when a roster need and an opportunity align. The important limitation is practical rather than purely financial: an acquisition may require an outgoing player to create both cap and roster room. That gives training-camp decisions, waiver choices and early-season lineup management added relevance.

IHM Market Outlook

Market signal: Montréal is being presented as a potential buyer at several points in the season, with limited flexibility early, stronger room by November or December and greater capacity nearer the deadline.

Any deal may need to include an outgoing player or salary because of the club’s roster depth. That could steer the Canadiens towards targeted upgrades rather than broad roster turnover.

Mini Q&A

How much cap space do the Canadiens currently have, according to the report?

Marco D’Amico says Montréal has about $3.6 million in cap space before roster adjustments.

What is the Canadiens’ expected cap space once Kaiden Guhle is placed on IR and a replacement is kept?

D’Amico reports that after that adjustment the Canadiens would be at about $2.7-2.8 million in cap space.

When might Montréal have more meaningful cap space?

The transcription projects roughly $7.9-8 million by November or December and about $16 million by the trade deadline.

Who outlined the cap and roster picture for the Canadiens in the source?

Marco D’Amico of the Starr and D’Amico Show.

Will adding a player be straightforward for Montréal?

Not necessarily. D’Amico’s view is that Montréal’s depth at every position means an acquisition would likely require money to go out as well.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching and roster-management perspective, the headline lesson is roster elasticity, not raw spending power. Montréal’s reported count – about 13 forwards, eight defencemen and two goalies – leaves little slack for straight additions. That forces two practical approaches: either the club prioritises internal trimming (waivers, AHL assignments or short-term loans) to create openings for low-cost upgrades, or it constructs trade proposals that exchange an active player for the incoming piece. Both routes demand a clear valuation of marginal players at camp: coaches must identify who is replaceable without losing structural balance, and the front office must price those players in trade conversations. If D’Amico’s timeline holds, coaches should also prepare for mid-season integrations (November – December) when the cap room widens, and for larger retooling at the deadline when cumulative accrual hits the $16M mark cited in the transcription.

What Comes Next

Key upcoming dates: – Sept. 29: Regular-season opening night – Oct. 13: All 32 teams play – Oct. 25: NHL Heritage Classic – Montréal Canadiens at Winnipeg Jets – Nov. 12 and 14: NHL Global Series Finland – Carolina Hurricanes vs. Seattle Kraken – Dec. 18 and 20: NHL Global Series Germany – Chicago Blackhawks vs. Ottawa Senators – Dec. 31: NHL Winter Classic – Colorado Avalanche at Utah Mammoth

IHM Final View

Montréal may have room to pursue upgrades as the season unfolds, but the decisive issue is likely to be roster space as much as cap space. If D’Amico’s projections prove accurate, any addition would probably need to be paired with an outgoing player or salary – linking training-camp choices, early-season management and trade-deadline planning.

Wild fan sinks center-ice shot to win season tickets

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Colin, a Minnesota Wild fan, was selected from the stands during a pre-season game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Grand Casino Arena and given a chance to win season tickets by shooting from centre ice. The task required finding the back of the net through a full board that left only a puck-sized hole in the bottom centre. Wearing an alternate home green Joel Eriksson Ek jersey, Colin stickhandled then fired the puck through the small opening, celebrated with a dramatic glove-drag celebration – sliding through the faceoff circle on one knee while wearing sneakers and jeans – and leapt into the boards. The moment was captured and promoted by the team.

Key Facts

  • The fan is named Colin.
  • Event took place during a Minnesota Wild pre-season game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Grand Casino Arena.
  • Colin was invited from the stands to attempt a centre-ice shot to win season tickets.
  • A full board covered the net with only a puck-sized hole in the bottom centre as the target.
  • Colin wore an alternate home green Joel Eriksson Ek jersey while taking the shot.
  • He successfully sent the puck through the small opening from centre ice.
  • Colin celebrated with a glove-drag celebration, sliding through the faceoff circle on one knee in sneakers and jeans, then leapt into the boards.
  • The team shared the clip of the attempt and celebration.

IHM Discussion

Promotional on-ice challenges are a staple of game-night entertainment, and the Wild’s centre-ice setup gave this one a genuinely difficult physical requirement: a shot from centre ice at a puck-sized target. Colin’s success combined skill with theatre. Wearing a team jersey and delivering an emphatic celebration turned a routine promotion into a memorable in-arena highlight.

Why It Matters

For the Wild and their fans, a moment like this adds energy to a pre-season game and gives supporters a memorable shared experience. It also shows how a simple in-arena activation can create a standout moment around the game.

Mini Q&A

Who was the fan who won the season tickets?

The fan’s name is Colin.

Where did this take place?

It happened at Grand Casino Arena during a Minnesota Wild pre-season game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

What exactly was the shot Colin had to make?

He had to find the back of the net from centre ice through a full board that left only a puck-sized hole in the bottom centre.

What did Colin wear and how did he celebrate?

He wore an alternate home green Joel Eriksson Ek jersey and celebrated with a glove-drag celly, sliding through the faceoff circle on one knee in sneakers and jeans, then leapt into the boards.

What did Colin win?

He won season tickets.

Coach Mark Comment

The shot was the headline, but the celebration completed the moment. In a pre-season building, that kind of spontaneous crowd reaction can give an in-arena promotion real personality.

Matvei Michkov ‘lighter and stronger’ at Flyers training camp

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Matvei Michkov arrived at Philadelphia Flyers training camp feeling ” lighter, quicker and ready” after an off-season of altered training and eating habits. The 21-year-old said he is about 30 pounds lighter than a year ago, practised more one-timers and worked with Flyers performance development coach Lorne Goldenberg in Russia. Coach Rick Tocchet noted Michkov ” looks lighter and stronger” on the ice and that his stride remained ” elongated” late in practice. Michkov, who was the No. 7 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, led NHL rookies with 26 goals and tied for second with 63 points in 2024-25 but saw production slip to 20 goals and 51 points last season. He was the Flyers’ leading scorer during the post-Olympic stretch with 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 26 games, though he managed only one assist in eight playoff games. Michkov also emphasised his improving English and greater comfort living in North America, with teammates noting better in-game communication.

Key Facts

  • Matvei Michkov is 21 years old and is a forward for the Philadelphia Flyers.
  • Michkov told a reporter in Russia he is about 30 pounds lighter than a year ago.
  • Michkov’s listed size is 5-foot-10, 172 pounds.
  • Michkov said of his condition: ” I actually look good…. I feel really good right now. I think I’m ready for season.”
  • Coach Rick Tocchet said Michkov ” looks lighter and stronger skating” and that ” his stride is longer.”
  • Michkov altered his training regimen and eating habits; he said he eats ” just good food, no fast food, no sugar.”
  • Lorne Goldenberg, Flyers performance development coach, spent two weeks working with Michkov in Russia; Michkov described days with ” two (workouts) in the gym and one on ice so three practices in one day.”
  • Michkov was the No. 7 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.
  • In 2024-25 Michkov led NHL rookies with 26 goals and tied for second with 63 points.
  • Last season Michkov had 20 goals and 51 points.
  • During the Flyers’ post-Olympic run Michkov had 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 26 games but recorded one assist in eight playoff games.
  • Michkov said he practised one-timers all summer and wants to shoot harder on them.

IHM Discussion

Michkov’s comments and the observations from Flyers staff outline a player who has consciously altered both lifestyle and training. His reported weight loss, structured work with the club’s development coach in Russia and deliberate one-timer practice are concrete changes following last season.

The statistical context makes the stakes plain. Michkov led NHL rookies with 26 goals and tied for second with 63 points in 2024-25, before recording 20 goals and 51 points last season. He then produced 22 points in 26 games after the Olympic break, but had one assist in eight playoff games. The Flyers averaged 2.93 goals per game last season, so a fitter Michkov with a more varied shooting threat could help provide more consistent offence.

His growing English and willingness to handle media with less reliance on a translator also point to off-ice adaptation. Travis Konecny’s observation of improved communication matters in a sport where line-mates must make quick reads in changing situations.

These changes do not guarantee a repeat of Michkov’s rookie production or a breakout season. Training camp has provided encouraging early signs; the next test is whether they translate into consistent game production.

Why It Matters

Michkov is an important offensive player for a Flyers side seeking more consistent scoring. His physical changes and focus on a harder one-timer could give Philadelphia another shooting option. The Flyers averaged 2.93 goals per game last season, so sustained offensive growth from Michkov would matter to their results. Better communication with team-mates can also help line chemistry and bench exchanges in close games. After ending a five-season playoff drought last season, Philadelphia will want a steadier contribution from Michkov.

Mini Q&A

Who is Matvei Michkov?

Matvei Michkov is a 21-year-old forward for the Philadelphia Flyers, taken No. 7 overall in the 2023 NHL Draft.

What physical changes did Michkov make this off-season?

Michkov said he is about 30 pounds lighter than a year ago, altered his eating habits to avoid fast food and sugar, and changed his training regimen, including two gym sessions and one on-ice session on some days while working with development coach Lorne Goldenberg in Russia.

How did Michkov perform in recent seasons?

Michkov led NHL rookies in 2024-25 with 26 goals and tied for second with 63 points. Last season he recorded 20 goals and 51 points. He had 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 26 games after the Olympic break but had one assist in eight playoff games.

What skill is Michkov prioritising to add goals?

Michkov has focused on shooting harder on one-timers and practised one-timers all summer to diversify his scoring and make his shot more of a weapon.

Has Michkov adapted off the ice?

Yes. He arrived in Philadelphia in 2024 with little English and said he did not feel comfortable without a translator until just before last season’s playoffs. At camp he said his English is better and that he feels Philadelphia is ” my second home.”

Coach Mark Comment

Michkov’s reported work addresses clear areas for improvement. A longer stride that holds up late in practice can be an encouraging conditioning sign, while one-timer work gives him another way to turn passes into shots. Better English should also help him process bench communication and stay connected with line-mates during games. The important challenge will be carrying those habits through the regular season.

IHM Final View

Michkov has described measurable changes in his preparation, including weight loss, focused shot work and greater off-ice discipline. Flyers staff and team-mates noticed encouraging signs at camp. Philadelphia needs his offensive growth, but the meaningful measure will be sustained regular-season production and a stronger playoff contribution.

Sunny Mehta vows Cup-first ambition for Devils

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Sunny Mehta, hired April 16 as general manager of the New Jersey Devils after six seasons with the Florida Panthers, says he is aiming for a Stanley Cup in his first season while recognising that progress can take several forms. Mehta, who spent the past three seasons in Florida as assistant GM and director of analytics and helped the Panthers win championships in 2024 and 2025, has made depth around Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier a central priority. He described a roster with skill throughout the lineup and pointed to additions including Amadeus Lombardi, Declan Chisholm, Luke Evangelista and Anthony Mantha. Mehta also backed Jake Allen as an excellent goalie on a very good contract, while saying the Jacob Markström trade to Florida on July 2 allowed the Devils to reallocate resources and opened a path for Nico Daws. He praised his early communication with coach Sheldon Keefe and called his day-to-day work with Devils executive vice president of hockey operations Martin Brodeur seamless.

Key Facts

  • Sunny Mehta was hired as New Jersey Devils general manager on April 16.
  • Mehta spent six seasons with the Florida Panthers, including three as assistant GM and director of analytics, and helped Florida win the Stanley Cup in 2024 and 2025.
  • Mehta grew up in Totowa, N.J., and played hockey at Ramapo High School.
  • Mehta said he will be disappointed unless the Devils win a Stanley Cup, while acknowledging reasonable measures of progress such as returning to the playoffs or building consistency.
  • Mehta identified roster depth as the Devils’ strength, emphasising top-to-bottom skill from the 12 forwards and six defencemen.
  • Mehta said the roster additions include Amadeus Lombardi, Declan Chisholm, Luke Evangelista and Anthony Mantha.
  • Mehta stated Amadeus Lombardi has not yet played an NHL game but is a developing player the club is willing to give opportunities.
  • Mehta said the team was too reliant last season on Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier and that improved depth should reduce that dependency.
  • Mehta described Jake Allen as an excellent goalie on a very good contract and cited creating a path for Nico Daws as part of the goaltending plan.
  • Jacob Markström was traded to the Florida Panthers on July 2; Mehta said the move allowed New Jersey to reallocate resources.
  • Mehta praised the communication and alignment with coach Sheldon Keefe, saying there was no real disagreement about the types of players the club needed.
  • Mehta said the Devils’ likely identity is a fast, skilled and intelligent team that uses skating aggressively with and without the puck, citing a Luke Hughes play in a Sept. 18 scrimmage as an example of closing space without possession.

IHM Discussion

Mehta’s message is straightforward and dual: set an ultimate standard of winning the Stanley Cup while pursuing measurable improvement. He accepts the emotional standard of being disappointed without a championship, but also identified returning to the playoffs and establishing consistency as meaningful progress. That balance shapes how resources are spent. The July 2 trade of Jacob Markström to Florida was framed as reallocation rather than a judgement on Markström’s ability. With goaltending carrying uncertainty, Mehta intends to avoid committing excessive assets there while relying on Jake Allen and giving Nico Daws an opportunity.

Mehta brings experience from Florida’s back-to-back championships but has stressed that New Jersey’s core requires its own approach. He contrasted Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier with Florida’s leading players to underline that roster construction cannot simply be copied from one club to another. The additions of Lombardi, Chisholm, Evangelista and Mantha are part of an effort to give the Devils stronger options beyond their top centres. Mehta’s description of two first lines and two second lines captures the aim: enough quality across the lineup to remain effective when Hughes and Hischier are off the ice.

Why It Matters

Mehta’s priorities put depth and cap management at the centre of the Devils’ plan. A more balanced lineup could lessen the club’s dependence on Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier and give it greater resilience when its leading players are off the ice. His goaltending approach, retaining Jake Allen on a very good contract while moving Markström and creating an opportunity for Nico Daws, reflects his preference to allocate resources carefully at a volatile position. Mehta has also described early alignment with Sheldon Keefe on personnel and systems, an important foundation as the new additions are integrated.

IHM Tactical Outlook

Mehta defined the Devils’ preferred identity as a fast, skilled and intelligent group that uses skating aggressively with and without the puck. That points to a focus on disrupting plays in the neutral zone, closing space and regaining possession quickly. He cited Luke Hughes using his feet to kill a play in a scrimmage without possessing the puck as the type of detail the club wants to encourage. Mehta’s aim of building several productive lines would also give Keefe more options to keep pressure on opponents beyond the shifts taken by Hughes and Hischier.

Mehta also stressed that young players need to be surrounded by established NHL talent rather than placed in a lineup filled with developing players. For Lombardi, who has not played an NHL game, the challenge will be finding opportunities that support his development while maintaining the team’s structure. The goaltending plan places value on sound team play in front of Allen and on giving Daws a chance to show what he can do.

Mini Q&A

What is Sunny Mehta’s main objective with the Devils?

Mehta said he will be disappointed unless the Devils win a Stanley Cup, while also recognising incremental measures of success such as returning to the playoffs and building consistency.

Where did Mehta work before joining the Devils?

He spent six seasons with the Florida Panthers, including the past three as assistant general manager and director of analytics, and was part of Florida’s 2024 and 2025 Stanley Cup teams.

How does Mehta want to change the roster dynamic?

He wants to build depth so the team is less dependent on Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, describing the current plan as having top-to-bottom skill and ‘two first lines and two second lines.’

What did Mehta say about goaltending?

Mehta called Jake Allen an excellent goalie on a very good contract, explained the Markström trade as a resource reallocation, and said the move created a path for Nico Daws.

How does Mehta view his relationship with coach Sheldon Keefe?

Mehta described clear alignment with Keefe on types of players and systems, saying they generally see things similarly and communication has been easy.

What style does Mehta expect the Devils to play?

He expects a fast, skilled and intelligent team that uses skating aggressively with and without the puck to both create offence and disrupt opponents.

Coach Mark Comment

Mehta’s approach starts with a sound coaching principle: the team identity must fit the personnel. A fast, skilled roster can use its skating to create offence, close space and disrupt plays without the puck. The key for Keefe will be building stable combinations around young players while keeping the Devils competitive across all four lines. If that depth translates from the roster to the ice, the Devils should be less reliant on their leading centres to drive every shift.

IHM Final View

Sunny Mehta has set an unequivocal standard: he wants a Stanley Cup, while recognising that progress can still be meaningful along the way. His emphasis on depth, early alignment with Sheldon Keefe and decision to reallocate resources in goal form a coherent approach. The test is execution: turning the added pieces into dependable lines, giving young players such as Amadeus Lombardi the right environment to develop and translating greater depth into more consistent play. Mehta has made the ambition clear; the Devils now have to deliver it on the ice.

IHM NHL Rumors: Report: Long-term Simon Edvinsson deal could top $10m

Report: Long-term Simon Edvinsson deal could top $10m

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Chris Johnston suggested Detroit Red Wings restricted free-agent defenceman Simon Edvinsson could command more than $10 million per season on a long-term, six- or seven-year contract. He added that the organisation might instead pursue a one- or two-year bridge deal while it completes its front-office search. Johnston also said major long-term contracts are organisational decisions that ideally should involve a permanent general manager rather than someone carrying an interim tag.

Key Facts

  • Chris Johnston discussed Simon Edvinsson’s contract prospects on The Chris Johnston Show, noting that a long-term deal would likely be ” double-digit” in average annual value.
  • Johnston suggested that a six- or seven-year contract for Edvinsson would probably exceed $10 million per season.
  • An alternative cited by Johnston is a short-term one- or two-year deal as a bridge while the season plays out.
  • Johnston said Edvinsson attended Red Wings camp and has not held out despite not having a new contract.
  • Johnston referenced a recent market shift after July 3rd, citing Leo Carlson’s offer sheet as a turning point for comparables.
  • Johnston pointed to examples of rising contracts, including Ryan Leonard allegedly receiving $10.5 million in Washington, to illustrate upward pressure on deals for young, high-upside players.
  • Johnston argued that major long-term contracts – described in round figures as $60m – $100m total – are the type of decisions that should involve ownership approval and ideally a non-interim GM.
  • Johnston said the Red Wings have been ” flat-footed” since Steve Yzerman was removed in mid-July and that Detroit engaged a search firm to find a new GM.
  • Shawn Horcoff is currently in the main chair in Detroit and Johnston suggested Horcoff is likely to be part of the next front office, though he may ultimately be paired with another executive.

IHM Discussion

Johnston’s remarks frame Edvinsson’s contract question as both a market issue and an organisational one. On the market side, he points to a recent acceleration in deals for young players that has moved comparables and pushed reported average annual values higher; he mentioned Leo Carlsson’s July 3 offer sheet as one inflection point and cited recent large contracts as evidence the market has reset. That dynamic could make a long-term, six- or seven-year commitment for Edvinsson more expensive than it might have been earlier in the off-season.

On the organisational side, Johnston flagged the timing problem Detroit faces: the Red Wings entered training camp while their front office was in transition after Steve Yzerman’s departure, with a search under way and Shawn Horcoff serving as interim GM. Johnston’s view is that commitments worth tens of millions of dollars are best made by a permanent GM or with explicit ownership sign-off, which helps explain why the team could favour a short-term bridge deal.

Why It Matters

How Detroit handles Edvinsson’s contract will shape its salary-cap flexibility and roster construction. A long-term deal above $10 million AAV would be a major commitment for a young defenceman, while a short bridge deal would preserve flexibility for a new general manager and allow the club more time to evaluate its long-term decision.

IHM Market Outlook

Johnston’s account paints a market where teams that delayed decisions may be paying a premium. He argued that the post-July offer sheet and the spate of large contracts for young players have elevated the price for long-term deals. For teams in Detroit’s position, that presents a choice between committing now at a higher AAV or using a shorter arrangement to defer a longer-term decision.

Mini Q&A

Is the suggestion that Simon Edvinsson will earn more than $10 million confirmed?

No. The claim is reported from The Chris Johnston Show; Johnston said he believes a long-term, six- or seven-year deal for Edvinsson would likely be ” double-digit” in AAV, meaning over $10 million per season, but no contract has been announced.

Would Detroit consider a short-term bridge deal?

Yes. Johnston suggested a one- or two-year short-term deal is an option to get through the season while the organisation completes its front-office search.

Is Edvinsson holding out of camp?

No. Johnston noted Edvinsson is at Red Wings camp and did not hold out despite not having a new contract.

Why does Johnston think timing matters for the Red Wings?

Johnston said Detroit missed a hiring window after Steve Yzerman’s removal in mid-July and engaged a search firm, leaving the team ” flat-footed” and raising questions about interim decision-making on major contracts.

Who is currently running Detroit’s hockey operations?

Shawn Horcoff is in the main chair; Johnston said Horcoff is very likely to be part of the next version of the front office, though he may be paired with someone else.

Coach Mark Comment

A bridge deal would give Detroit time to let Edvinsson’s role settle while keeping the focus on his day-to-day development. If the club commits long term, the priority is straightforward: continue building his confidence against demanding NHL minutes rather than treating the contract figure as a reason to force his usage.

IHM Final View

This remains an attributable projection rather than a completed deal. A one- or two-year bridge would preserve flexibility during Detroit’s front-office transition, but Johnston’s reporting indicates that a long-term agreement could cost more than $10 million annually.

IHM NHL Rumors: Could Gauthier’s six-year deal shape Fantilli’s talks?

Could Gauthier’s six-year deal shape Fantilli’s talks?

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Adam Fantilli, the 21-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets forward, has reportedly been seeking $15 million in contract talks. Chris Johnston suggested that Cutter Gauthier’s reported $13.5 million six-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks could offer a reference point and a possible path forward in Fantilli’s negotiation. Johnston said Columbus had been a few million dollars per year below Fantilli’s reported ask and described the talks as a slow grind. With training camp shortened, he stressed that missed days are important preparation time for a player.

Key Facts

  • Adam Fantilli is a 21-year-old forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
  • Fantilli’s camp was reported to be asking for $15 million per season.
  • Cutter Gauthier signed a six-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks; the deal was reported at $13.5 million.
  • Chris Johnston suggested on The Chris Johnston Show that Gauthier’s deal might offer a path forward for Fantilli’s negotiations.
  • Johnston said the Blue Jackets’ offer was a few million dollars per year under Fantilli’s reported $15 million ask.
  • Johnston described the Fantilli negotiations as a ” slow grind”.
  • Johnston noted this year’s training camp is shorter and that even a couple of missed days are important to player readiness.
  • Johnston observed Fantilli has ” achieved a lot more in his career than some of the guys we mentioned signing long-term deals,” while still pushing for a substantial contract.

IHM Discussion

This is a contract negotiation between a young Columbus forward and his club. The public markers are Fantilli’s reported $15 million ask, a Blue Jackets offer described as a few million dollars lower per year, and Gauthier’s newly completed six-year deal in Anaheim, reported at $13.5 million. Johnston’s point was that Gauthier’s agreement may give both sides another recent reference point.

Fantilli’s camp can lean on the achievements Johnston referenced, while Columbus must decide what it is prepared to commit. A negotiation described as a slow grind also becomes more pressing in a shortened camp, when missed time limits a player’s preparation.

Gauthier’s contract does not determine Fantilli’s value or guarantee a quick resolution. It simply gives the two sides another comparable to consider as they try to narrow the gap.

Why It Matters

The eventual agreement will shape Columbus’s salary planning and determine when Fantilli can return to full preparation with the club. Johnston’s description of a shortened camp makes timing relevant: missed days reduce the time available to prepare for the season. Gauthier’s deal may be useful to the negotiation, but it does not establish where Fantilli’s contract will land.

IHM Market Outlook

Gauthier’s reported $13.5 million six-year agreement gives Fantilli’s negotiations another recent point of comparison. Johnston suggested it could help bridge the gap between Fantilli’s reported ask and Columbus’s position, but any effect remains speculative. Fantilli’s camp can still argue that his own record supports a different outcome.

Mini Q&A

What has Adam Fantilli’s camp reportedly asked for?

Fantilli’s camp was reported to be asking for $15 million per season.

How might Cutter Gauthier’s deal affect Fantilli’s talks?

Johnston suggested that Gauthier’s reported $13.5 million six-year contract with Anaheim could offer a reference point that helps bridge the gap between Fantilli’s reported ask and Columbus’s offer.

What did Johnston say about the Blue Jackets’ offer?

Johnston said the Blue Jackets’ offer was a few million dollars per year under Fantilli’s reported $15 million ask.

Why is timing important in this negotiation?

Johnston noted this year’s training camp is shorter, so missing even a couple of days of camp is significant to a player’s preparation and could increase urgency around reaching a deal.

Coach Mark Comment

A shortened camp places more value on every day a player is available. Coaches use that time to establish systems, assess combinations and build conditioning, so an absence can compress a player’s preparation. The priority for Columbus is to have Fantilli signed and back in the group with enough time to be ready for the season.

What Comes Next

pre-season began on September 19, and the 2026-27 regular season opens on September 29. Those dates increase the practical importance of a resolution, although Johnston did not predict when an agreement would be reached.

IHM Final View

Gauthier’s reported $13.5 million six-year deal gives Fantilli’s talks a fresh point of comparison, not a definitive answer. Fantilli’s reported $15 million ask, Columbus’s lower position and the shortened camp leave room for compromise or a continued impasse. The key question is whether the new Anaheim agreement helps narrow that gap.

Bobrovsky ‘just going to keep working’ after Leafs debut

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Sergei Bobrovsky made his pre-season debut for the Toronto Maple Leafs in a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens, allowing one goal on 11 shots before being replaced by Anthony Stolarz at 8:44 of the second period. Bobrovsky, who signed a three-year, $21 million contract ($7 million AAV) with Toronto on July 1 as an unrestricted free agent and turned 38 on Sunday, described the outing as a chance to build chemistry and said he was ” just going to keep working.” Captain Auston Matthews praised the two-time Vezina Trophy winner and Stanley Cup winner in 2024 and 2025 as an ” absolute treat” to have in the dressing room.

Key Facts

  • Sergei Bobrovsky signed a three-year, $21 million contract ($7 million AAV) with the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 1 as an unrestricted free agent.
  • Bobrovsky turned 38 on Sunday.
  • Bobrovsky is a two-time Vezina Trophy winner (2013, 2017) and won the Stanley Cup in 2024 and 2025.
  • He is seventh all-time among NHL goalies in wins with 456, four wins shy of Henrik Lundqvist and 34 from passing Roberto Luongo for fourth.
  • Bobrovsky is 17th all-time in games played with 806, accumulated with the Philadelphia Flyers, Columbus Blue Jackets and Florida Panthers.
  • In his final season with the Panthers he went 27-23-1 with a 3.07 goals-against average and an.877 save percentage.
  • In the 2023 postseason against Toronto, Bobrovsky posted a .943 save percentage, allowing 10 goals in the series.
  • In his Maple Leafs pre-season debut, Bobrovsky allowed one goal on 11 shots in a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens and was replaced by Anthony Stolarz at 8:44 of the second period.
  • The lone goal he conceded came 51 seconds into the second period: on a 2-on-1, Zachary Bolduc passed around Emil Andrae to Phillip Danault, who peeled off and flipped a shot over Bobrovsky’s glove while standing on the goal line.
  • Captain Auston Matthews said having Bobrovsky on the team is ” an absolute treat” and praised his professionalism and focus.
  • Maple Leafs coach Jim Hiller said he and goalie coach Curtis Sanford would manage Bobrovsky’s reps, and noted Bobrovsky probably wants the repetitions and to ” feel the pucks.”
  • Bobrovsky reunited in Toronto with Anthony Stolarz, who backed him up in Florida during the 2023-24 season and was on the ice in the pre-season game as his replacement for part of the outing.

IHM Discussion

Bobrovsky’s arrival in Toronto is notable both for what he brings now and for what the Maple Leafs hope to build around him. His pre-season appearance offered only an early look: he faced 11 shots and allowed a well-executed goal. The outing does not rewrite his recent statistical slide – last season’s 3.07 GAA and .877 save percentage remain important context – but his career resume and Matthews’ praise underline why Toronto committed $21 million. The club finished last in the Atlantic Division and 15th in the Eastern Conference last season, and Bobrovsky has been tasked with helping it return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Why It Matters

Goaltending is a decisive position for any Cup pursuit. Bobrovsky brings elite pedigree: two Vezina Trophies, Stanley Cup wins in 2024 and 2025, and 806 NHL games. Even if his most recent regular-season numbers were below his career norms, his postseason performance against Toronto in 2023 (.943 save percentage) and his place among the all-time wins leaders give Toronto an accomplished veteran option in net. For the Maple Leafs, who missed the playoffs last season, his form will be an important part of their attempt to return to the postseason.

Mini Q&A

How did Sergei Bobrovsky perform in his Maple Leafs pre-season debut?

Bobrovsky allowed one goal on 11 shots in a 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens and was replaced by Anthony Stolarz at 8:44 of the second period.

What did Bobrovsky say after the game?

He said it was a good game, praised the building and energy, noted the team kept shots to the outside and said, ” We will keep building…just going to keep working.”

What is the length and value of Bobrovsky’s contract with Toronto?

He signed a three-year contract worth $21 million total, with a $7 million average annual value, on July 1 as an unrestricted free agent.

What are some career milestones mentioned?

Bobrovsky is a two-time Vezina Trophy winner (2013, 2017), won the Stanley Cup in 2024 and 2025, ranks seventh all-time in NHL wins with 456, and is 17th in games played with 806.

When do the Maple Leafs open the regular season?

The Maple Leafs open the regular season at home against the Montreal Canadiens on Sept. 29.

Coach Mark Comment

Bobrovsky’s early pre-season minutes matter less for the result than for establishing timing and communication with a new defensive group. A veteran goaltender can bring calm to those details, but the real test will be how quickly the group reads plays together and limits difficult chances around the crease.

What Comes Next

Toronto will play split-squad pre-season games against the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday. The Maple Leafs open the regular season at home against the Montreal Canadiens on Sept. 29.

IHM Final View

Bobrovsky’s pre-season debut was far from definitive but carried encouraging signs: a veteran willing to work, an established winner with a history of postseason excellence and a reunion with Anthony Stolarz.