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IHM NHL Rumors: Gauthier Talks Reportedly Progressing; Fantilli Negotiations Stall

Gauthier Talks Reportedly Progressing; Fantilli Negotiations Stall

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

With CBA changes due to take effect on September 16, reports indicate the Anaheim Ducks and restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier have made progress towards a new deal, while Adam Fantilli’s talks with the Columbus Blue Jackets showed little movement over the weekend. Elliotte Friedman said Gauthier’s situation had advanced and could be the biggest of the pending extensions, while suggesting a shorter term of around five years rather than eight. An officially reported four-year, $13 million Ducks offer was rejected by Gauthier in August.

Columbus has yet to reach an agreement with Fantilli, with reports suggesting a five-year contract remains the preferred framework. The timing is significant: September 15 is the final day under the existing CBA for eligible players to sign eight-year extensions before the new agreement takes effect on September 16.

Key Facts

  • Elliotte Friedman reported on the 32 Thoughts Podcast that there has been ” progress on Gauthier” and that it could be ” the biggest of the three” pending extensions.
  • Friedman said he does not expect Cutter Gauthier to sign for eight years and suggested a five-year term is more likely.
  • An officially reported four-year, $13 million Ducks offer was rejected by Gauthier in August.
  • Anaheim cleared Chris Kreider’s cap hit and terminated his contract, opening cap space the Ducks could use for a Gauthier deal.
  • Fraser Minten initially had his first contract rejected before signing a seven-year extension at $7.2 million, an example Friedman cited of pre-deadline paperwork issues.
  • Aaron Portzline reported little progress over the weekend between Adam Fantilli and the Columbus Blue Jackets; Mark Scheig also confirmed no deal was completed over the weekend.
  • Friedman noted structure and variance could be as important as headline numbers in negotiations and referenced the 60% variance rule as a factor for Gauthier.
  • Friedman said Columbus faces a separate timing decision involving Kirill Marchenko: if another team wants to acquire and extend him under current rules, it must happen before Wednesday, and it was unclear whether Columbus wanted to move him.
  • Reports suggest Adam Fantilli will look to sign a five-year extension similar to those given to Leo Carlsson, Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini.
  • The reported urgency is tied to the CBA change on September 16, with September 15 identified as the final day for eligible players to sign eight-year extensions under the existing rules.

IHM Discussion

The CBA change has compressed negotiations for young restricted free agents into a narrow window. Friedman’s comments that there has been progress on Gauthier, combined with Anaheim’s decision to terminate Chris Kreider’s contract, point to a clear effort to create flexibility before training camp. Gauthier remains unsigned, however, and the only officially reported proposal was the four-year, $13 million offer he rejected in August.

Friedman’s expectation of a shorter agreement rather than an eight-year term underlines the importance of both length and structure in these talks. Anaheim’s priority is straightforward: get Gauthier under contract and into camp without sacrificing more roster flexibility than necessary.

Fantilli’s situation provides the contrast. Reports indicated little progress over the weekend, even as Columbus works towards training camp. A five-year framework has been linked to Fantilli, but no agreement has been announced. Friedman also raised a separate question over Kirill Marchenko’s future, though Columbus’ intentions remain unclear.

Why It Matters

These negotiations matter because they affect roster construction, cap flexibility and training-camp availability. Getting a Gauthier deal done would allow Anaheim to have its young core in camp and finalise opening-night plans; failing to reach terms risks downstream roster and cap disruption. For Columbus, Fantilli remains unsigned at a crucial moment in their off-season calendar; continued delay risks missing the pre-deadline window for certain structural moves and could complicate the club’s roster decisions ahead of training camp.

IHM Market Outlook

The immediate market signal is urgency. Anaheim has created cap flexibility and still needs to resolve Gauthier’s contract, while the rejection of a four-year, $13 million offer shows that the sides have not yet found common ground. Any eventual agreement could be shaped as much by term and structure as by the headline figure.

Fantilli’s unsigned status leaves Columbus with a similarly important decision before camp. Reports have linked him to a five-year deal, but the lack of a completed agreement means the situation remains open.

Mini Q&A

Is there confirmed progress on Cutter Gauthier’s contract?

Reports from Elliotte Friedman say there has been progress on a Gauthier extension and that Anaheim appears motivated to get a deal done; however, no agreement has been publicly filed or announced.

What kind of deal is Gauthier reportedly seeking?

An officially reported four-year, $13 million offer from Anaheim was rejected by Gauthier in August. No new agreement has been announced.

Will Gauthier sign an eight-year extension?

Friedman said he does not think Gauthier will sign for eight years and suggested a five-year term is more likely; nothing is confirmed.

What is the status of Adam Fantilli’s talks with Columbus?

Aaron Portzline and Mark Scheig reported that there was not much progress over the weekend on Fantilli’s extension; Fantilli’s camp is reportedly seeking a five-year deal and the club hoped to sign him before training camp.

What timing pressures are affecting these negotiations?

September 15 is the reported final day for eligible players to sign eight-year extensions under the existing CBA. The new CBA takes effect on September 16, increasing the urgency around any deal that relies on the current rules.

Coach Mark Comment

Having core players in camp matters. A late agreement can reduce the time available to establish line combinations, special-teams responsibilities and daily habits before the season begins, so Anaheim and Columbus will want clarity as soon as possible.

What Comes Next

September 15 is the reported final day for eligible players to sign eight-year extensions under the existing CBA. The new CBA takes effect on September 16. Anaheim and Columbus will continue working towards agreements with Gauthier and Fantilli before training camp.

IHM Final View

Anaheim appears to be moving towards a resolution with Gauthier after creating cap flexibility, but no agreement has been announced. Columbus and Fantilli remain in a slower, more uncertain negotiation. Until contracts are completed, both situations remain matters of reported progress rather than confirmed transactions.

Sabres lock up Noah Ostlund with eight-year deal

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Noah Ostlund signed an eight-year, $52.8 million contract with the Buffalo Sabres on Monday. The deal begins next season and carries an average annual value of $6.6 million. Ostlund, 22, is in the final season of the three-year entry-level contract he signed on July 15, 2022. Last season he produced 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 60 regular-season games and added two points (one goal, one assist) in three Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Key Facts

  • Noah Ostlund signed an eight-year contract with the Buffalo Sabres on Monday.
  • The contract is worth $52.8 million in total and has an average annual value of $6.6 million.
  • The contract begins next season.
  • Ostlund, 22, is in the final season of the three-year entry-level contract he signed July 15, 2022.
  • Last season Ostlund had 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 60 regular-season games and two points (one goal, one assist) in three Stanley Cup Playoff games.
  • The Sabres selected Ostlund in the first round, No. 16 overall, in the 2022 NHL Draft.
  • Ostlund averaged 13:58 of ice time last season and had a plus-10 even-strength goal differential, fourth among NHL rookie forwards.

IHM Discussion

The eight-year term makes this a long-term commitment to a young player coming off his entry-level deal. The $6.6 million AAV sets the financial terms for both club and player from next season. Ostlund averaged 13:58 of ice time, posted a plus-10 even-strength goal differential and was singled out by Sabres coach Lindy Ruff for his positional reliability. Those details frame Buffalo’s investment in a forward whose defensive game stood out during his rookie season.

Why It Matters

For the Sabres, the deal locks in a first-round draft pick who has shown defensive dependability and some scoring ability at NHL level. It shifts Ostlund off the entry-level curve and into a long-term payroll commitment, giving the club control over a 22-year-old forward through what will be several prime development seasons. For Ostlund, the contract provides security as he moves from a three-year entry-level agreement into a sustained NHL role.

IHM Market Outlook

The contract establishes an AAV benchmark of $6.6 million for Ostlund as he exits his entry-level contract. It signals Buffalo’s willingness to use long-term deals to retain young players who combine defensive reliability with upside. The commitment begins next season under the stated terms.

Mini Q&A

What are the terms of Noah Ostlund’s new deal?

Ostlund signed an eight-year contract worth $52.8 million in total, with an average annual value of $6.6 million; the deal begins next season.

How old is Noah Ostlund and what contract was he on?

Ostlund is 22 years old and is in the final season of a three-year entry-level contract he signed on July 15, 2022.

What were Ostlund’s offensive numbers last season?

Last season he had 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 60 regular-season games and added two points (one goal, one assist) in three Stanley Cup Playoff games.

How much did he play and how did he perform defensively?

He averaged 13:58 of ice time last season and recorded a plus-10 even-strength goal differential.

When do the Sabres start camp and the regular season?

The Sabres open training camp the week of the report, play their first pre-season game Sept. 21 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and begin the regular season Oct. 1 at the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Where was Ostlund drafted?

He was selected by the Sabres in the first round, No. 16 overall, of the 2022 NHL Draft.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, consistent positioning and defensive awareness give a young forward a dependable foundation. Ostlund’s rookie-season usage and even-strength results sit alongside Ruff’s praise for his work in the defensive zone. A long-term deal gives the club time to build on those strengths while continuing to develop his offensive game.

What Comes Next

The Sabres open training camp this week, play their first pre-season game Sept. 21 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and begin the regular season Oct. 1 at the Columbus Blue Jackets.

IHM Final View

The contract is a clear vote of confidence from Buffalo in a young player who grades strongly on defensive structure and positional play. It is a long-term bet that Ostlund’s steadiness and room for offensive improvement will justify a $6.6 million AAV commitment over eight seasons.

Ten NHL teams are without a captain as Robert Thomas becomes the latest appointment

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Robert Thomas was named captain of the St. Louis Blues on Sept. 2, making him the most recent player to receive the role. Ten teams, including the Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks and Vancouver Canucks, do not currently have a captain. Sidney Crosby is the longest-serving current captain, having held the position with the Pittsburgh Penguins since May 31, 2007.

Key Facts

  • Robert Thomas was named captain of the St. Louis Blues on Sept. 2.
  • Ten teams do not currently have a captain: Anaheim Ducks; Boston Bruins; Chicago Blackhawks; Columbus Blue Jackets; Detroit Red Wings; Los Angeles Kings; New York Islanders; Ottawa Senators; San Jose Sharks; Vancouver Canucks.
  • Sidney Crosby has been captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins since May 31, 2007 and is the longest current-tenured captain.
  • The current captains include Rasmus Dahlin (Buffalo Sabres), Mikael Backlund (Calgary Flames), Jordan Staal (Carolina Hurricanes), Gabriel Landeskog (Colorado Avalanche), Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers), Aleksander Barkov (Florida Panthers), Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs) and Alex Ovechkin (Washington Capitals).
  • Boston Bruins — Vacant
  • Buffalo Sabres — Rasmus Dahlin
  • Calgary Flames — Mikael Backlund
  • Carolina Hurricanes — Jordan Staal
  • Chicago Blackhawks — Vacant
  • Colorado Avalanche — Gabriel Landeskog
  • Columbus Blue Jackets — Vacant* (listed as vacant in source)

IHM Discussion

The captaincy list offers a snapshot of formal leadership assignments across the league. Long-serving captains such as Sidney Crosby sit alongside recent appointments such as Robert Thomas, while ten clubs currently have no named captain. The named group includes established stars Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals.

Why It Matters

The list provides a clear reference point for each club’s formal captaincy status. It also shows the contrast between teams with an established designated leader and those currently operating without a captain.

Mini Q&A

Which player was the most recent to be named captain?

Robert Thomas was named captain of the St. Louis Blues on Sept. 2.

How many NHL teams are without a captain according to the list?

Ten teams are listed as without a captain.

Who is the longest current-tenured captain in the NHL?

Sidney Crosby has been captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins since May 31, 2007 and is the longest-tenured current captain.

Which notable star players are listed as captains?

The list includes Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers), Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs), Alex Ovechkin (Washington Capitals), Victor Hedman (Tampa Bay Lightning) and others.

Coach Mark Comment

A vacant captaincy does not prevent a club from having strong leadership within its player group. Clear standards and communication still have to come from the dressing room, whether or not one player wears the C.

IHM Final View

The current captaincy picture combines established leaders with ten vacancies. Thomas is the latest appointment, while Crosby remains the league’s longest-serving current captain.

Martin St. Louis signs four-year extension with Canadiens

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

The Montreal Canadiens have signed head coach Martin St. Louis to a four-year contract extension. The deal is a four-year contract that incorporates the final year of the agreement St. Louis had accepted in June 2022 and adds three further seasons through 2029-30. St. Louis, hired as interim coach on Feb. 9, 2022 and made the franchise’s 32nd head coach on June 1, 2022, led Montreal to its best regular-season points total since 2014-15 (106 points) and a run to the 2026 Eastern Conference Final, where the Canadiens fell in five games to the eventual champion Carolina Hurricanes. Team owner Geoff Molson, president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton and general manager Kent Hughes all spoke at the tournament; Hughes said he was pleased to have St. Louis ” locked up for the next four seasons.” The announcement came alongside other roster and staff news: Derek Lalonde was introduced as associate coach, Josh Anderson was named an alternate captain alongside Mike Matheson, Cole Caufield was highlighted as a 50-goal scorer in 2025-26, Zachary Bolduc signed a new four-year contract, and Chris Kreider signed a one-year deal. Montreal will open training camp this week with its core largely intact and higher public expectations after last season’s progress.

Key Facts

  • Montreal announced a multiyear extension for head coach Martin St.
  • The contract is described as a four-year deal that includes the final year St. Louis had agreed to in June 2022 and adds three more seasons through 2029-30.
  • St. Louis was hired as interim coach on Feb. 9, 2022, and officially became the Canadiens’ 32nd head coach on June 1, 2022.
  • Under St. Louis, Montreal’s regular-season point totals have climbed each year: 68 (2022-23), 76 (2023-24), 91 (2024-25) and 106 (2025-26).
  • The Canadiens finished sixth in the NHL regular-season standings with 106 points in 2025-26 and advanced to the Eastern Conference Final, losing in five games to the eventual champion Carolina Hurricanes.
  • St. Louis was a finalist for the Jack Adams Award in 2024-25.
  • Geoff Molson (owner, president and CEO of Groupe CH), Jeff Gorton (president of hockey operations) and Kent Hughes (general manager) addressed media at the tournament before play.
  • Derek Lalonde was introduced as the Canadiens’ newly hired associate coach.
  • Josh Anderson was announced as a new alternate captain and will wear the ‘A’ with defenceman Mike Matheson.
  • Cole Caufield scored 50 goals in 2025-26.
  • Zachary Bolduc signed a new four-year contract on the Sunday before the tournament.
  • Chris Kreider signed a one-year contract on the Saturday before the tournament. He is expected to add speed, net-front presence and grit to the Canadiens lineup.

IHM Discussion

Locking Martin St. Louis into a four-year extension formalises the continuity the Canadiens have built during their steady rise. The deal follows regular-season totals of 68, 76, 91 and 106 points in his first four full seasons behind the bench, capped by a run to the 2026 Eastern Conference Final.

The extension also keeps Montreal’s coaching direction in place as the club opens camp with its core intact and Chris Kreider added to the group. St. Louis has stressed attention to detail and a day-by-day approach; the next test is whether the Canadiens can sustain that trajectory over another full season.

Why It Matters

The extension gives Montreal continuity behind the bench as expectations rise after last season’s 106-point campaign and Eastern Conference Final appearance. It also keeps St. Louis in place to lead a core group that remains intact for training camp, with Kreider joining the lineup and Zachary Bolduc signed for four more years.

For the Canadiens, the deal is a clear vote of confidence in a coach whose teams have improved their regular-season points total in each of his four full seasons.

IHM Market Outlook

The four-year agreement provides clarity around Montreal’s coaching position as the club continues to build around its young core. Geoff Molson said the Canadiens will keep filling gaps and trying to improve each year, while Kent Hughes expressed confidence that St. Louis and the group will continue to get better.

Mini Q&A

How long is Martin St. Louis’s new contract with the Canadiens?

The team announced a four-year deal that includes the final year St. Louis had agreed to in June 2022 and adds three additional seasons through 2029-30.

When did Martin St. Louis become Montreal’s head coach?

St. Louis was hired as interim coach on Feb. 9, 2022, and officially became the Canadiens’ 32nd head coach on June 1, 2022.

How far did the Canadiens go in the 2026 playoffs?

Montreal advanced to the Eastern Conference Final in 2026, where the Canadiens lost in five games to the eventual champion Carolina Hurricanes.

What has been the trend in the Canadiens’ regular-season points under St. Louis?

Montreal’s points totals under St. Louis have risen each season: 68 (2022-23), 76 (2023-24), 91 (2024-25) and 106 (2025-26).

What other personnel news was highlighted at the tournament?

Derek Lalonde was identified as the new associate coach, Josh Anderson as a new alternate captain alongside Mike Matheson, while Zachary Bolduc had signed a four-year contract and Chris Kreider a one-year deal.

When does Montreal begin training camp?

The Canadiens will open training camp this week, according to the club’s announcement at the tournament.

Coach Mark Comment

Continuity behind the bench gives Montreal a stable platform as its young core develops. The key is to keep demanding the detail St. Louis has highlighted while defining roles clearly as new pieces enter the lineup. Kreider’s net-front presence and grit can complement the club’s speed if the group maintains its structure away from the puck.

IHM Final View

The Canadiens’ decision to extend Martin St. Louis is a deliberate vote of confidence in steady progress. The contract formalises a coach who has overseen measurable improvement and a deep playoff run, and it shores up continuity as Montreal moves into a season when expectations have risen. Success will still depend on day-to-day execution – health, depth, in-season adjustments and how new pieces like Chris Kreider complement the existing core – but the organisation has chosen to keep its coaching direction intact as it pursues the next step toward a Stanley Cup calibre roster.

Eriksson Ek, Kaprizov lead ‘Skol’ chant at Vikings game

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Joel Eriksson Ek, Kirill Kaprizov, Jonas Brodin and Jesper Wallstedt of the Minnesota Wild led the crowd in the ‘skol clap’ just before the second half of the Minnesota Vikings game against the Green Bay Packers. The Wild players wore custom Vikings jerseys while taking part in the chant.

Key Facts

  • Joel Eriksson Ek, Kirill Kaprizov, Jonas Brodin and Jesper Wallstedt led the crowd in the ‘skol clap’ just before the second half of the Vikings – Packers game.
  • All four Wild players wore custom Minnesota Vikings jerseys while participating in the chant.
  • The Minnesota Wild posted a clip of the moment on September 13, 2026.
  • The Minnesota Wild open their season on Thursday, October 1, against the Nashville Predators at 8 p.m. ET (MINNHL, SCRIPPS).

IHM Discussion

Four Minnesota Wild players made a visible cross-sport appearance by leading the crowd in the Vikings’ signature chant while wearing custom jerseys. Eriksson Ek, Kaprizov, Brodin and Wallstedt helped energise the stadium before the second half as Minnesota faced Green Bay.

The appearance coincided with a dramatic Vikings comeback, adding to the occasion for the Wild players and the fans in attendance. The Wild now turn their attention to their own season opener against Nashville.

Why It Matters

The appearance put several Wild players in front of a large Minnesota crowd shortly before the club opens its own season. It also gave fans a light-hearted crossover moment involving two local teams.

Mini Q&A

Who led the ‘Skol’ chant at the Vikings game?

Joel Eriksson Ek, Kirill Kaprizov, Jonas Brodin and Jesper Wallstedt led the crowd in the ‘skol clap’.

What were the Wild players wearing during the appearance?

All four players wore custom Minnesota Vikings jerseys.

When do the Minnesota Wild open their NHL season?

The Wild open their season on Thursday, October 1, against the Nashville Predators at 8 p.m. ET (MINNHL, SCRIPPS).

Where was the moment shared?

The Minnesota Wild shared a clip of the players leading the chant on September 13, 2026.

Coach Mark Comment

A public appearance like this can be a welcome team-building moment, provided it remains separate from the work required to prepare for the season. The Wild’s focus will quickly return to their opener against Nashville.

What Comes Next

The Minnesota Wild open their season on Thursday, October 1, against the Nashville Predators at 8 p.m. ET; the game will be on MINNHL and SCRIPPS.

Artist Dave Fried unveils Forsberg and Thompson masks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Airbrush artist Dave Fried has shared two distinctive goalie helmet designs fans should expect to see this season. Los Angeles Kings netminder Anton Forsberg collaborated with Fried on a ” City of Angels”-themed mask that includes angel statues, the Kings retro crown logo, dual film strips with palm trees and backplate likenesses of Forsberg’s children and dog. Washington Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson continued his practice of basing each mask on a different movie with a 1996 Tim Burton ” Mars Attacks!” design featuring the campy alien invaders, spaceships and a depiction of President Dale, played by Jack Nicholson, above Capitals logos. Fried said the idea came up during a discussion while Thompson was being tattooed, and showed the design in a short video clip. Fried also shared Forsberg’s mask on social media.

Key Facts

  • Airbrush artist Dave Fried shared new goalie mask designs on social media.
  • Anton Forsberg collaborated with Fried on a ” City of Angels”-themed mask.
  • Forsberg’s mask shows angel statues on either side and the Kings retro crown logo.
  • The top of Forsberg’s mask features dual film strips with palm trees in each frame.
  • Forsberg’s backplate includes likenesses of his children and his dog.
  • Forsberg used a similar color scheme last season and paid homage to Kings legends in his first season in Los Angeles.
  • Logan Thompson uses a different movie for every mask and this season’s is ” Mars Attacks!” (1996, Tim Burton).
  • Thompson’s mask features the alien invaders, their spaceships and Jack Nicholson’s President Dale above prominent Capitals logos.
  • Fried said the ” Mars Attacks!” idea came up during a discussion while Thompson was being tattooed, and he showed it in a short video clip.
  • The backplate of Thompson’s mask shows characters Donald Kessler (Pierce Brosnan), Rude Gambler (Danny DeVito) and Byron Williams (Jim Brown), as well as another alien life form.

IHM Discussion

Goalie masks remain one of the most visible ways players personalise their on-ice image, and Fried’s work highlights two different approaches. Forsberg’s ” City of Angels” design ties directly into his tenure in Los Angeles with city iconography, family references and a nod to the club’s retro crown logo, continuing a colour scheme he used last season. Thompson’s concept leans into pop culture: he has established a pattern of selecting a different film for each helmet, and this year’s choice – the camp classic ” Mars Attacks!” – leans hard into recognisable characters and playful detail. The two masks reflect personal storytelling as much as artistry: Forsberg’s includes family likenesses, while Thompson’s celebrates cinematic fandom and humour.

Why It Matters

Mask design gives goaltenders a highly visible way to express personal interests and connections. Forsberg’s family imagery and Los Angeles-inspired theme sit alongside Thompson’s film-based concept, giving fans plenty of detail to spot when the helmets appear this season.

Fan Pulse

Fans who follow mask reveals will recognise the two different creative routes. Fried’s social post thanking Forsberg indicates the masks are already circulating online, and Thompson’s movie-based approach is the sort of idea that usually sparks lively reaction from supporters who enjoy spotting cameos and film references. Expect social conversation about the details – especially Forsberg’s family backplate and Thompson’s cast-packed ” Mars Attacks!” backplate.

Mini Q&A

Who created the masks?

Airbrush artist Dave Fried created the masks for Anton Forsberg and Logan Thompson.

What theme does Anton Forsberg’s mask have?

Forsberg’s mask is a ” City of Angels” theme with angel statues, the Kings retro crown logo, dual film strips with palm trees and likenesses of his children and dog on the backplate.

What is Logan Thompson’s mask theme?

Thompson’s mask is themed on the 1996 Tim Burton film ” Mars Attacks!”, featuring the alien invaders, spaceships and a depiction of President Dale above Capitals logos.

How did the Thompson idea originate?

Fried said the idea came up during a discussion while Thompson was being tattooed, and he showed the design in a short video clip.

When will fans see these masks?

Fried said these are designs to expect to see this season.

Coach Mark Comment

For a goaltender, mask art is part of an individual visual identity. These two designs take different routes: Forsberg’s is rooted in Los Angeles imagery and family detail, while Thompson’s uses a bold film concept.

What Comes Next

Fans can expect to see the designs this season, both in game action and across social media.

IHM Final View

Dave Fried’s latest masks for Anton Forsberg and Logan Thompson underline how goalie helmets remain a canvas for personal expression. One design roots a player in his city and family, the other uses a cult film to inject humour and character. Both are built to be noticed, on-ice and online.

Matias Maccelli’s arrival won’t cure Islanders’ deeper flaws

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Matias Maccelli is New York’s most eye-catching summer addition, but his signing alone is unlikely to lift the Islanders back into the playoffs. The club missed the postseason by seven points after a late collapse last season, while Ilja Sorokin remains its most important player and rookie defenceman Matthew Schaefer has emerged as an elite young blueliner. With $4.2 million in cap space and several forwards nearing contract decisions, the roster has little margin for error.

Key Facts

  • Palkkakattotila (salary cap space) listed as $4.2 million.
  • Arrivals on the roster list: Vítek Vaněček (G), Matthew Kessel (D), Matias Maccelli (RW/wing).
  • Departures on the roster list: David Rittich (G), Carson Soucy (D), Adam Boqvist (D), Anders Lee (LW), Maksim Šabanov (RW), Marc Gatcomp (RW).
  • Projected core group includes: Ilja Sorokin (G), Ryan Pulock (D), Matthew Schaefer (D), Adam Pelech (D), Mathew Barzal (C/LW), Bo Horvat (C), Brayden Schenn (LW/C), Kyle Palmieri (RW).
  • Projected goaltenders and listed figures: Ilja Sorokin – 60, 91.0%, 2.52; Vítek Vaněček – 20, 88.5%, 3.22; Semjon Varlamov – 5, 89.5%, 2.94.
  • Matias Maccelli is projected in the preview at #63 with even-strength power-play deployment (YV 2), 75 games and 18 goals + 24 assists = 42 points.
  • Matthew Schaefer (defenceman) won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie and is projected to play 80 games with 21+35=56 points; he has already been elevated to a top-pairing role.
  • Ilja Sorokin carried the team most nights last season and his late-season save percentage dropped to 88.6% in the final quarter of the year, per the preview.
  • Defensive pairing changes include Schaefer alongside Ryan Pulock, with Adam Pelech paired with Tony DeAngelo. Aleksandr Romanov is expected to return from a serious injury alongside Scott Mayfield on the third pairing.
  • Projected top scorers and predicted point totals in the preview include Bo Horvat 34+39=73, Mathew Barzal 21+47=68 and Kyle Palmieri 22+29=51.

IHM Discussion

Matias Maccelli is a calculated gamble rather than a transformative signing. The Islanders have limited cap room, lost Anders Lee and added Maccelli as an offensive option, while several roster roles remain unsettled. Maccelli is a creative winger with a season to show he can be a useful part of the club’s future. He could earn a place on the top line, but he could also find himself lower in the lineup.

Matthew Schaefer’s rookie breakout has reshaped the defence. He is set to play alongside Ryan Pulock, splitting up the long-standing Pelech – Pulock pairing and leaving Adam Pelech with Tony DeAngelo. Romanov’s return after a serious injury is another significant variable on the third pair.

Goaltending remains central to the Islanders’ outlook. Sorokin carried the club for much of last season before his save percentage fell to 88.6% in the final quarter. Vítek Vaněček has arrived as cover, while Semjon Varlamov is hoped to return to fitness. The forward group has projected production from Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal, but the wider question is whether it can generate enough scoring beyond its leading names.

One addition is unlikely to alter the broader picture. The Islanders are projected to face a difficult season after missing the playoffs, with a roster still heavily dependent on Sorokin and a handful of key contributors.

Why It Matters

The Islanders’ hopes rest heavily on Sorokin’s form, Schaefer’s continued development beside Pulock and greater scoring from the forward group. Limited cap space restricts the club’s flexibility, while Casey Cizikas, Ondřej Palát and Kyle MacLean are approaching unrestricted free agency. This season will show whether Peter DeBoer can keep the Islanders in the playoff race or whether they slip towards the lower reaches of the Eastern Conference.

Mini Q&A

Is Matias Maccelli expected to be a top-six player for the Islanders?

Maccelli has the potential to earn a top-line place and is projected for 75 games, 18 goals and 24 assists for 42 points. However, he could also end up in a depth role if he does not seize the opportunity.

Who are the Islanders’ projected goaltenders and their listed figures?

The roster list shows Ilja Sorokin (60, 91.0%, 2.52), Vítek Vaněček (20, 88.5%, 3.22) and Semjon Varlamov (5, 89.5%, 2.94).

Which players are heading for unrestricted free agency next summer?

Casey Cizikas, Ondřej Palát and Kyle MacLean are set to become unrestricted free agents next summer.

What changed on defence after Matthew Schaefer’s emergence?

Schaefer was promoted to a top-pairing role with Ryan Pulock, which separated Adam Pelech and Pulock and pushed Pelech to play with Tony DeAngelo; the third pairing will feature Aleksandr Romanov (returning from a long layoff) and Scott Mayfield.

How did the Islanders finish last season, according to the preview?

The Islanders remained in playoff contention into February and March, then won nine of their final 22 games and missed the playoffs by seven points.

Coach Mark Comment

The coaching priority is to give Maccelli a clearly defined role and judge whether his chance creation translates alongside the club’s leading forwards. Sorokin’s workload also needs careful management, while the new Schaefer – Pulock pairing must quickly establish dependable habits at both ends of the rink.

What Comes Next

Casey Cizikas, Ondřej Palát and Kyle MacLean are set to become unrestricted free agents next summer. – Simon Holmström, Emil Heineman and Matias Maccelli have a season to make their cases before becoming restricted free agents.

IHM Final View

Maccelli is a useful addition, but not a cure-all. The Islanders remain heavily reliant on Sorokin, while Schaefer’s rise has changed the shape of the defence. Unless the forward group finds more consistent scoring, the club faces a difficult route back into the playoffs.

Chayka outlines Matthews’ camp readiness and Maple Leafs plan

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

John Chayka said Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews is “pretty much 100 percent ready to go physically” for the team’s first on-ice training camp session Thursday, six months after surgery to repair a torn MCL in his left knee. Chayka framed Matthews’ health as a positive amid a sweeping overhaul that began with his and Mats Sundin’s appointments on May 3 and continued through draft and personnel moves.

Toronto used its draft-lottery win to select Penn State forward Gavin McKenna with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Chayka described a deliberate, flexible development plan for McKenna, with decisions on minutes and special-teams usage to be adjusted as he plays.

Chayka said there was no ownership mandate for change, but that the club assessed its situation and made key additions, including coach Jim Hiller, goalie Sergei Bobrovsky and defenceman Darren Raddysh. He also said Max Domi remains out indefinitely with an undisclosed injury. On Matthews’ contract, Chayka said discussions would be addressed at the appropriate time, with the immediate focus on winning.

Key Facts

  • John Chayka was hired as general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs on May 3, 2026; Mats Sundin was hired as senior executive adviser the same day.
  • Chayka said Auston Matthews is “pretty much 100 percent ready to go physically” for the Maple Leafs’ first on-ice training camp session Thursday, roughly six months after Matthews underwent left-knee MCL surgery.
  • Matthews has two seasons remaining on the four-year, $53 million contract he signed on Aug. 25, 2023, with an average annual value of $13.25 million.
  • Toronto used its NHL Draft Lottery win to select Penn State forward Gavin McKenna with the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
  • The Maple Leafs hired Jim Hiller as head coach and added Sergei Bobrovsky as their new goalie; Bobrovsky is a two-time Stanley Cup winner.
  • Forward Max Domi remains out indefinitely with an undisclosed injury, Chayka said.
  • Chayka said there was no explicit mandate for change from ownership; the direction was to assess, be strategic and build a world-class organization.
  • Chayka acknowledged public “white noise” and mixed reaction to his hiring but said his focus is on the Maple Leafs organization, not external validation.
  • Chayka discussed his time in Arizona: he was the youngest GM in NHL history when hired in 2016 and resigned from the Coyotes on July 26, 2020, one week before Arizona’s first postseason game in the Edmonton bubble.
  • Keith Pelley, CEO of Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment, said he had no issues with Chayka’s past and had the final say in hiring him.
  • Chayka described a measured, flexible approach to McKenna’s deployment, emphasising feedback, minutes, special teams and the environment the organisation will create to help the No. 1 pick handle Toronto’s spotlight.

IHM Discussion

Chayka’s immediate priority is stabilising the on-ice picture by removing one major variable: the health of Auston Matthews. Calling Matthews “pretty much 100 percent” before the first on-ice session offers a positive update for a team that missed the playoffs and finished 15th in the Eastern Conference last season. Matthews’ availability gives the new management a clearer baseline from which to assess its additions.

The off-season work falls into two categories: roster retooling and organisational change. The additions of Bobrovsky in goal and Raddysh on the back end are part of a broader effort to reshape the roster. Chayka stressed that results will ultimately depend on the players once the puck drops.

Chayka repeatedly referenced assessment and opportunism rather than an ownership edict. Sundin brings experience of Toronto’s market, dressing room and player perspective, giving Chayka a trusted sounding board. Staff turnover is also part of the new leadership’s approach, and managing that change without creating unnecessary disruption will be an early test.

McKenna’s development plan is cautious and adaptable rather than fixed. Chayka said the club will monitor his play, gather feedback and adjust his minutes and special-teams usage. That flexibility will be important as the No. 1 pick begins his career in Toronto.

Why It Matters

Matthews’ apparent readiness changes the complexion of Toronto’s opening camp and early regular season. For a club that missed the playoffs for the first time since 2015-16, having its captain available reduces immediate uncertainty and clarifies how the new group can be assessed.

Chayka’s stated approach – assess, be strategic and act when opportunities arise – gives the organisation a framework for measuring progress. Bobrovsky, Raddysh and Hiller are prominent additions, and how quickly they integrate with the existing group will shape Toronto’s season.

McKenna’s arrival also carries significant attention. Chayka’s emphasis on flexibility, feedback and a supportive environment recognises the challenge of bringing a No. 1 pick into Toronto.

Fan Pulse

Attention around the Maple Leafs is heightened, and Chayka said he welcomes the “white noise” that comes with the market’s passion. Matthews’ health update, McKenna’s arrival and the additions of Bobrovsky and Raddysh give supporters clear developments to follow as training camp begins.

Mini Q&A

Is Auston Matthews ready for training camp?

Chayka said Matthews is “pretty much 100 percent ready to go physically” for the Maple Leafs’ first on-ice training camp session Thursday, roughly six months after his left-knee MCL surgery.

What is the Maple Leafs’ plan for No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna?

Chayka described a strategic but flexible development plan for McKenna: monitor how he plays, adjust minutes and special-teams usage based on feedback, and provide mentorship and a supportive environment rather than forcing him immediately into high-pressure situations.

Did ownership demand a teardown when Chayka was hired?

Chayka said there was no mandate for change from ownership; the directive was to assess the organisation, be strategic and create a long-term vision for a world-class operation.

What major roster and staff changes did Toronto make this off-season?

1 pick. Chayka also discussed front-office personnel changes.

What is Max Domi’s status?

Chayka said forward Max Domi remains out indefinitely with an undisclosed injury.

How did Chayka address his time in Arizona?

Chayka said he was very young when hired by the Arizona Coyotes and noted that the circumstances there differed significantly from those in Toronto. He said he has grown through experience and values Sundin as a candid partner.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective, the priority is to establish clear roles quickly as a reworked group comes together. Matthews’ availability gives the staff more certainty at centre, while McKenna’s usage should be adjusted according to his early performances and feedback. A flexible plan is more useful than forcing a fixed workload on a young player.

What Comes Next

The next immediate checkpoint Chayka pointed to is the Maple Leafs’ first on-ice training camp session Thursday. He also referenced getting through the team’s first regular-season game as the practical next step before addressing longer-term matters such as contract discussions.

IHM Final View

Chayka’s interview is an executive’s attempt to impose a calm, process-driven narrative on a club undergoing visible and rapid change. Matthews being “pretty much 100 percent” is the clearest short-term win for the new regime; the longer-term verdict will hinge on how well high-profile additions integrate, how the organisation manages public scrutiny and whether McKenna’s development is paced to produce contribution without undue pressure.

Cal Nichols, saviour of the Oilers, dies at 84

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Cal Nichols, the Edmonton businessman and investor credited with helping to keep the Oilers in Edmonton during the 1990s, has died. Nichols, born in Paradise Hill, Saskatchewan, in 1942, moved to Edmonton in 1969 and remained a season ticket holder for the club for the rest of his life. He co-chaired the Friends of the Oilers ticket drive in 1996, which more than doubled the team’s season ticket base, and in 1998 assembled a group of 38 local investors to buy the franchise for $110 million after owner Peter Pocklington put the team up for sale in 1997. Edmonton Investors Group later sold the club to Daryl Katz in 2008. Nichols received several honours in recognition of his business and community contributions, and is survived by his wife, Edna; their children Ken and Kristine; and five grandchildren.

Key Facts

  • Cal Nichols died on Sunday. He was 84.
  • Born in Paradise Hill, Saskatchewan, in 1942.
  • Moved to Edmonton in 1969.
  • Longtime Edmonton Oilers season ticket holder.
  • Co-chaired the Friends of the Oilers ticket drive in 1996, which more than doubled the team’s season ticket base.
  • When owner Peter Pocklington put the team up for sale in 1997, Nichols assembled 38 local investors and purchased the Oilers for $110 million in 1998.
  • Edmonton Investors Group sold the Oilers to Daryl Katz in 2008.
  • Nichols was inducted into the Alberta Business Hall of Fame and received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and the Order of Canada in 2015.
  • Commissioner Gary Bettman said Nichols ‘stepped forward repeatedly’ to save the franchise and served as the Oilers’ governor for a decade.
  • Survived by his wife, Edna; children Ken and Kristine; and five grandchildren.

IHM Discussion

Cal Nichols’s death is a reminder of the decisive role local leadership can play in the fate of a professional sports franchise. He co-chaired the 1996 Friends of the Oilers ticket drive, which more than doubled the club’s season-ticket base, then assembled 38 local investors to buy the Oilers for $110 million in 1998 after Peter Pocklington put the team up for sale.

Those were two practical steps in keeping the franchise in Edmonton: first demonstrating substantial local support, then securing local ownership. Nichols later served as the Oilers’ governor for a decade, while Edmonton Investors Group sold the club to Daryl Katz in 2008.

Nichols’s induction into the Alberta Business Hall of Fame, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and the Order of Canada reflected a wider record of business and community service. His legacy with the Oilers rests on visible action at a moment when the club’s future in Edmonton was at risk.

Why It Matters

For Edmonton and the NHL, Nichols’s story shows how organised community support and local investment helped preserve a major professional franchise at a precarious moment. The 1996 ticket drive more than doubled the Oilers’ season-ticket base, and the 1998 purchase placed the club in the hands of a 38-member local investor group.

His provincial and national honours also place that work in a broader civic context, recognising a career that combined business leadership with service to the community.

Mini Q&A

Who was Cal Nichols?

Cal Nichols was an Edmonton businessman and investor who helped save the Oilers from relocation in the 1990s and later served as the club’s governor.

When did Nichols help the Oilers and what did he do?

Nichols co-chaired the Friends of the Oilers ticket drive in 1996, which more than doubled the season-ticket base. In 1998, he assembled 38 local investors to buy the team for $110 million after it was put up for sale in 1997.

What honours did Nichols receive?

Nichols was inducted into the Alberta Business Hall of Fame, received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and was awarded the Order of Canada in 2015.

Did the team later change ownership?

Yes. Edmonton Investors Group sold the Oilers to Daryl Katz in 2008.

How old was Nichols when he died and who survives him?

Nichols was 84 when he died. He is survived by his wife, Edna; their children, Ken and Kristine; and five grandchildren.

What did NHL leaders say about him?

Daryl Katz said, ‘If it wasn’t for Cal, the Oilers wouldn’t be in Edmonton.’ Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Nichols for repeatedly stepping forward to save the franchise and noted he served as the Oilers’ governor for a decade.

Coach Mark Comment

Nichols’s work underlined an organisational truth: stable ownership and committed local support give a hockey club firmer footing. The ticket drive and local purchase helped secure that foundation for the Oilers in Edmonton.

IHM Final View

Cal Nichols played a pivotal role in keeping the Oilers in Edmonton. His work in the mid-to-late 1990s – boosting season-ticket support and organising local ownership – helped anchor the franchise to its city. The honours he received reflected a public record as both a business leader and community steward. His death prompts reflection on the civic work that can shape a franchise’s history.

IHM NHL Rumors: NHL expansion talk centres on Houston and Austin

NHL expansion talk centres on Houston and Austin

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

The NHL has entered a six-month process with the Friedkin family to evaluate the feasibility of expansion in either city. Commissioner Gary Bettman said the prospective investment would be about $3.5 billion, including the expansion fee and the cost of a new arena.

Pagnotta said Atlanta remains on the league’s radar, though Bill Daly has described reports of imminent progress there as premature. He also suggested the NHL could eventually reach 36 teams and said the Board of Governors would receive an update on potential expansion markets at its meeting in two weeks.

Key Facts

  • Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period identified Houston and Austin, Texas, as the leading options for a potential 33rd NHL franchise.
  • The NHL has entered a six-month process with the Friedkin family to evaluate the feasibility of expansion in Houston or Austin; the prospective investment has been put at about $3.5 billion, including an expansion fee and a new arena.
  • Pagnotta said the Board of Governors meetings are in two weeks and that there will be an update on the status of the potential expansion markets and outside interest.
  • Pagnotta noted the Mayor of Houston publicly said the city is ready to help secure an NHL club and had complimented Austin while arguing Houston is the right location.
  • Pagnotta reported that Atlanta’s entertainment district and arena project are progressing and that they expect to break ground on the whole development later this year.
  • Pagnotta listed other markets that have shown interest in the NHL recently, including a potential return to Arizona, New Orleans, San Diego and Iowa.
  • Pagnotta suggested the league could reach 36 teams ‘probably within the next 10 years’ and speculated that Team 33 might begin play in the 2029-30 or 2030-31 season.

IHM Discussion

Pagnotta’s comments place Texas at the centre of the expansion conversation, but the NHL’s formal position is that it is evaluating the feasibility of a Houston or Austin franchise with the Friedkin family. The potential investment is about $3.5 billion and includes both an expansion fee and the cost of a new arena.

Atlanta remains part of the wider discussion, but Pagnotta relayed Bill Daly’s caution that reports of imminent progress are premature. The proposed entertainment district and arena project therefore matter to Atlanta’s longer-term prospects without establishing it as the next market in line.

Pagnotta also raised the possibility of the NHL reaching 36 teams within about a decade. That remains projection rather than a league decision, and any further growth would depend on the progress of the Texas evaluation and other prospective markets.

Why It Matters

The prospective $3.5 billion investment illustrates the scale now attached to a potential NHL expansion project, combining the expansion fee with the cost of a new arena. The ongoing feasibility process means the outcome remains unsettled.

A 33rd team, and any later move towards 34 to 36 clubs, would eventually affect scheduling, divisional alignment, expansion mechanisms and the demand for NHL-ready depth. For now, Houston and Austin are the markets under formal evaluation, while Atlanta and other cities remain part of the broader conversation.

IHM Market Outlook

The central market signal is the scale of the prospective investment: about $3.5 billion, including an expansion fee and a new arena. The NHL is evaluating feasibility with the Friedkin family in Houston or Austin, so neither location has been selected.

Atlanta’s proposed entertainment district and arena project remains relevant to its future prospects, but Daly’s caution means it should not be treated as an imminent expansion decision. Pagnotta’s mention of Arizona, New Orleans, San Diego and Iowa underlines the breadth of interest, not a confirmed list of active bids.

Mini Q&A

Is the 33rd NHL team confirmed and where will it be located?

No. The NHL is conducting a six-month feasibility evaluation with the Friedkin family for a potential franchise in Houston or Austin. Neither city has been selected.

What is the $3.5 billion figure cited in the report?

The NHL has put the Friedkin family’s prospective investment at about $3.5 billion, including an expansion fee and the cost of a new arena. The NHL has not publicly provided a further breakdown.

Is Atlanta getting a team next?

Atlanta is on the NHL’s radar, but Daly has said reports of imminent progress are premature. Pagnotta said the city’s entertainment district and arena development is expected to break ground later this year.

Could the NHL reach 36 teams?

Pagnotta suggested the league could reach 36 teams, ” probably within the next 10 years,” but framed that as a projection rather than a confirmed plan.

When will the league provide an update?

Pagnotta said the Board of Governors meetings are in two weeks and that the governors will receive an update on potential expansion markets and outside interest at that meeting.

Coach Mark Comment

Expansion can alter the depth available across the league, particularly when clubs prepare for an expansion draft and compete for NHL-ready prospects. If the NHL adds teams over time, organisations with strong development pipelines and dependable depth will be better placed to manage the resulting roster movement.

What Comes Next

The NHL’s feasibility process with the Friedkin family is scheduled to run for six months. Pagnotta said the Board of Governors would also receive an update on potential expansion markets and outside interest at its meeting in two weeks. He added that Atlanta’s entertainment district and arena development is expected to break ground later this year.

IHM Final View

Texas is the NHL’s active expansion file, with Houston and Austin under a six-month feasibility evaluation involving the Friedkin family. The prospective investment has been put at about $3.5 billion, including an expansion fee and a new arena, but no location or 33rd franchise has been confirmed.

Atlanta remains a longer-term possibility rather than an imminent decision. Talk of 34 to 36 teams is still projection, with the feasibility process and the next Board of Governors update providing the clearest near-term markers.