Tag: IHM News

IHM NHL News: McKenna builds on first pro point with Maple Leafs

McKenna builds on first pro point with Maple Leafs

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

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

Why It Matters

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

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

Fan Pulse

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

Mini Q&A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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

IHM NHL News: Super 16: Most indispensable players for each team

Super 16: Most indispensable players for each team

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

Why It Matters

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

Mini Q&A

What is the Super 16?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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

IHM NHL Rumors: Philadelphia Flyers still hunting for a big piece

Philadelphia Flyers still hunting for a big piece

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

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

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

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

Why It Matters

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

IHM Market Outlook

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

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

Mini Q&A

Are the Flyers actively pursuing a top forward?

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

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

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

Will the Flyers consider trades?

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

Do the Flyers have financial flexibility?

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

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

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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

IHM NHL News: Patrick Kane to make Blackhawks pre-season debut vs Blues

Patrick Kane to make Blackhawks pre-season debut vs Blues

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

Why It Matters

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

Mini Q&A

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

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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

Mads Eller honoured in Rødovre after concussion retirement

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Mads Eller will be honoured in Rødovre before the Mighty Bulls’ match against Rungsted as he brings his playing career to an end because of repeated concussions. Eller has said he has suffered “far too many” concussions, that the risks of continuing were too great, and that he missed much of last season for that reason. His Metal Ligaen career totals stand at 10 seasons and 383 games; he also spent a couple of seasons with Sønderjyske.

Key Facts

  • Mads Eller will be honoured in Rødovre before the club’s match against Rungsted.
  • The occasion is described as an official farewell to the club legend.
  • Eller is ending his playing career because of a larger number of concussions.
  • Eller said: “I can hardly bear to think of the many larger or smaller concussions I’ve had. I’ve had far too many. Maybe I invited some myself because of my energetic style and play on the edge.”
  • He added that his doctor and his wife Sofie agreed the risk of continuing was too great.
  • Eller missed a large part of last season because of concussions and had hoped to continue until it proved impossible.
  • Eller played a couple of seasons for Sønderjyske and compiled 10 seasons and 383 games in the Metal Ligaen.

IHM Discussion

The ceremony gives Rødovre a chance to salute a long-serving figure whose career has been ended by repeated concussions. Eller’s own words underline the cumulative nature of the decision: he has suffered concussions of varying severity and acknowledged that his energetic, edge-of-the-limit style may have contributed. He missed much of last season and hoped until the end that he could continue, but concluded that the risk was too great. The farewell recognises both his contribution on the ice and the physical toll of the sport.

Why It Matters

Eller’s retirement highlights player welfare issues that remain central to hockey at every level. His decision draws attention to the effect repeated head injuries can have on a playing career. For teammates and supporters, the ceremony offers a moment of closure and a chance to recognise his contribution to the game.

Mini Q&A

When and where will Mads Eller be honoured?

He will be honoured in Rødovre before the club’s match against Rungsted.

Why is Mads Eller ending his playing career?

He is stopping because of a larger number of concussions; he and his doctor and his wife Sofie agreed the risk of continuing was too great.

Did concussions affect his recent seasons?

Yes. He missed a large part of last season because of concussions and had hoped to continue before it proved impossible.

What are Eller’s Metal Ligaen career totals?

He reached 10 seasons and played 383 games in the Metal Ligaen, and he also spent a couple of seasons with Sønderjyske.

What Comes Next

Rødovre will formally mark Mads Eller’s retirement before its match against Rungsted.

IHM Final View

Mads Eller’s career ends because the risks associated with continued play became too great. The ceremony in Rødovre will recognise a player who reached 10 seasons and 383 games in the Metal Ligaen, while underlining the seriousness of repeated concussion risk.

Over 1,700 tickets sold for Frederikshavn v Herlev

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Frederikshavn White Hawks have sold more than 1,700 tickets for their match against Herlev, as local interest returns following a strong start. Spectators are returning to matches in Frederikshavn as the club and town reconnect.

Key Facts

  • Frederikshavn White Hawks are the named home club.
  • More than 1,700 tickets have been sold for the White Hawks’ match against Herlev.
  • A strong start has boosted interest among spectators in Vendsyssel.
  • Frederikshavn and the club have reconnected, with spectators returning to matches in the city.

IHM Discussion

More than 1,700 tickets sold for the Herlev match points to a clear rise in local engagement around Frederikshavn White Hawks. The strong start has been accompanied by growing interest, with the club and town reconnecting.

For the club, a larger crowd can lift the match-day atmosphere and give the home side added energy. The early response offers a positive sign of support in Frederikshavn.

Why It Matters

Higher attendance for the Herlev match reflects tangible community support for Frederikshavn White Hawks. A strong crowd can improve the arena atmosphere and give the club a positive platform to build on.

Jurčák says disputed collision preceded Košice own goal against Slovan

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Košice suffered their first defeat of the season against Slovan Bratislava after a decisive incident in the 36th minute. Goaltender Jurčák collided behind his net with Tomáš Marcinko; the puck then came out in front and Radek Deyl knocked it into his own goal. Jurčák described the contact as an illegal hit and said he had not seen the opponent before the impact. Slovan had opened the scoring through Ryan Dmowski, while Košice replies came from a tipped effort by Bíreš and an equaliser from Patrik Lamper. Coach Ceman praised Košice’s controlled exits and forechecking despite the loss. Košice have eight points from four games and will host Poprad on Friday, 25 September, when the club will honour its 1986 and 1996 title teams.

Key Facts

  • Košice lost to Slovan Bratislava after Radek Deyl knocked the puck into his own net following a collision between Jurčák and Tomáš Marcinko behind the net in the 36th minute.
  • Goaltender Jurčák said he felt a hit he did not expect because he did not see an opponent; he described the contact as a foul and said: ” According to me it should have been whistled, but let those responsible comment – I am not the referee.”
  • Slovan goalkeeper Julian Junca made several saves in the first period and Ryan Dmowski scored for the visitors.
  • Košice’s goals came from a tipped attempt by Bíreš and an equaliser from Patrik Lamper.
  • Coach Ceman praised his team’s ability to exit under control and called it the team’s best forechecking of the season, commending the balanced use of four lines.
  • Košice conceded a further empty-net goal late in the third period.
  • After four games Košice have eight points and sit third in the table behind Žilina and Slovan.
  • Košice will host Poprad on Friday 25 September and will honour the club’s 1986 and 1996 championship teams that night.
  • Bíreš is a 32-year-old forward and is a Banská Bystrica youth product.

IHM Discussion

The match turned on a single, disputed moment rather than a prolonged collapse. Košice were able to generate chances in the opening period but met a resolute Julian Junca in Slovan’s goal; the visitors struck first through Ryan Dmowski. Košice’s response in the second period – a tipped goal by Bíreš and a leveller from Patrik Lamper – showed the team’s capacity to react, and coach Ceman pointed to controlled exits and strong forechecking as evidence of the side executing its game plan. The 36th-minute collision behind the net left Jurčák momentarily turned and the puck ended up in the Košice goal off Radek Deyl. Jurčák’s contention that the contact should have been whistled places the decision with the match officials. His view of the incident will remain a talking point for Košice supporters and staff.

Why It Matters

This result marks Košice’s first defeat of the season but does not erase the encouraging signs Ceman highlighted: disciplined exits, effective forechecking and four balanced lines. Those elements can support consistency over a long season. At the same time, the circumstances of the decisive goal underline how marginal incidents – a collision behind the net, a deflection and an official’s call – can determine individual results. For a team sitting third after four matches, maintaining its defensive structure will be important in the next outing.

Mini Q&A

What exactly decided the match between Košice and Slovan?

A puck that emerged from behind Košice’s net after a collision between goaltender Jurčák and Tomáš Marcinko ended up in the net off Radek Deyl, producing the decisive goal in the 36th minute.

Did Jurčák call for a penalty after the collision?

Jurčák said he felt the contact, did not expect it because he did not see an opponent, and believed the incident should have been whistled; he added that the competent authorities must comment, as he is not the referee.

Who scored for Slovan and who replied for Košice?

Ryan Dmowski scored for Slovan. Košice’s goals included a tipped effort by Bíreš and an equaliser from Patrik Lamper; Košice also conceded a later empty-net goal.

What is Košice’s position in the table after this game?

After four matches Košice have eight points and sit third in the standings behind Žilina and Slovan.

When and against whom do Košice play next?

Košice will host Poprad on Friday 25 September; the club will honour its 1986 and 1996 championship teams during that fixture.

What Comes Next

Košice will host Poprad on Friday 25 September; during that fixture the club will honour its 1986 and 1996 championship teams. The match is the next concrete checkpoint for Košice to respond to the defeat and continue building on the defensive structure praised by coach Ceman.

IHM Final View

The result will be remembered for the disputed collision and the own goal, but the match also offered encouragement: Košice played within a system the coach trusts and produced attacking pressure. Their next task is to carry that structure into the visit of Poprad.

Antti Raanta returns to Lukko goal for Tappara clash

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Antti Raanta will start in goal for Lukko against Tappara in Thursday evening’s sole Liiga fixture. The 37-year-old veteran will start in Rauma for the first time this season and has played only 40 minutes so far.

Key Facts

  • Antti Raanta will start in goal for Lukko against Tappara in Thursday’s only Liiga match.
  • Raanta is 37 years old.
  • This will be Raanta’s first start of the season for Lukko.
  • Raanta has played only 40 minutes this season.
  • Raanta replaced Daniel Salonen after the first period of Lukko’s home game against JYP on 9 September 2026, after Salonen had conceded four goals.
  • In that JYP game Raanta made 14 saves with a save percentage of 93.33.
  • The Lukko – Tappara game is scheduled to be played in Rauma and is due to begin at 18.30.

IHM Discussion

Raanta’s first start of the season gives Lukko a change in goal for the visit of Tappara. The 37-year-old has played only 40 minutes so far, all coming after he replaced Daniel Salonen following the first period against JYP on 9 September. Raanta made 14 saves in that appearance and finished with a 93.33 save percentage.

Why It Matters

Raanta’s selection gives Lukko a veteran starter for Thursday’s game after his limited action so far this season. It also changes the immediate goaltending rotation, with Salonen having started the earlier game against JYP.

KooKoo collapse again as KalPa score four in first period

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

KooKoo suffered another early collapse as KalPa scored four times in the first period in Kouvola, forcing a goaltending change. Eetu Randelin was replaced by Jasper Patrikainen after KalPa’s barrage left the score 4-1 inside 12 minutes. KalPa won the game 5-4. The goalscorers for KalPa in the flurry were Teemu Hartikainen (opening power-play goal), Aleksi Klemetti, Joona Saarelainen and Juuso Könönen; Ville Meskanen scored for KooKoo. Klemetti’s strike was his 100th Liiga goal. KooKoo began the season with four straight losses and one overtime point.

Key Facts

  • KooKoo conceded four goals in the first period to KalPa and replaced starting goaltender Eetu Randelin with Jasper Patrikainen.
  • Eetu Randelin’s recorded save percentage in the game was 63.64; he made seven saves before being pulled.
  • KalPa’s Teemu Hartikainen opened the scoring with a power-play goal; Ville Meskanen equalised for KooKoo within a minute.
  • KalPa scored three times in quick succession at 10:02, 11:34 and 11:47 (Aleksi Klemetti, Joona Saarelainen and Juuso Könönen respectively).
  • Aleksi Klemetti’s goal was his 100th in Liiga.
  • Joona Saarelainen and Teemu Hartikainen each recorded their first goal of the season.
  • The match finished KalPa 5-4 KooKoo.
  • KooKoo had started the season with four straight defeats and one overtime point prior to this game.

IHM Discussion

The match underlined how fragile KooKoo’s situation has become. After a brief, even opening, KalPa struck first on the power play through Teemu Hartikainen. Ville Meskanen’s quick reply offered a momentary lifeline, but KooKoo’s defensive play faltered thereafter. Three goals in 1 minute 45 seconds, at 10:02, 11:34 and 11:47, swung the game emphatically in KalPa’s favour and prompted coach Jouko Myrrä to replace Eetu Randelin with Jasper Patrikainen. Reportedly, defensive lapses is the main reason for the collapse rather than the goaltender alone. Aleksi Klemetti’s 100th Liiga goal and first goals of the season for Hartikainen and Joona Saarelainen added individual positives for KalPa, while KooKoo’s string of defeats now constitutes a difficult early-season run.

Why It Matters

This result compounds KooKoo’s poor start and leaves them anchored at the foot of the Liiga table. Conceding four goals inside a single period exposes defensive shortcomings that will need immediate attention if KooKoo are to halt the slide. For KalPa, the rapid flurry and Klemetti’s milestone are confidence-boosting, showing the team can capitalise on moments of defensive disorganisation from opponents.

Mini Q&A

What was the score when Eetu Randelin was replaced?

KalPa led 4-1 inside the first 12 minutes, after which KooKoo replaced starting goalie Eetu Randelin.

Who replaced Eetu Randelin in goal?

Jasper Patrikainen replaced Eetu Randelin during the first period.

Which KalPa players scored in the first-period flurry?

Teemu Hartikainen, Aleksi Klemetti, Joona Saarelainen and Juuso Könönen scored KalPa’s four first-period goals.

Did any player hit a milestone?

Yes. Aleksi Klemetti’s goal in that sequence was his 100th Liiga goal.

How had KooKoo started the season before this game?

KooKoo had begun the season with four straight defeats and one overtime point.

Goalkeepers take centre stage in Vaasa student game

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

In Vaasa’s student-themed ” haalari” game, goalkeepers took the spotlight. The 2006-born pair Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen combined for 40 saves in front of 4,148 spectators, many of them students in coveralls. The match went to overtime, where Jere Väisänen scored at 62:15 – recorded as the first and last goal of the contest.

Key Facts

  • The game drew 4,148 spectators, many of them students wearing coveralls.
  • Goaltenders Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen, both born in 2006, combined for 40 saves.
  • Härkönen had to retrieve the puck from behind him once.
  • Several minor confrontations took place early in the game.
  • Johan Sundström watched a Rimpinen save from close range.
  • Arttu Tuomaala put full flex into his stick.
  • Redi helped maintain the student-game atmosphere with antics.
  • Viljami Nieminen had a breakaway chance in overtime.
  • Iiika Kangasmäki broke through at the other end after a pass from Rimpinen.
  • At 62:15, Jere Väisänen scored what was recorded as the game’s first and final goal.
  • The Kiekko-Espoo supporters in attendance were pleased with the outcome.

IHM Discussion

Goaltending dominated the evening in Vaasa. Härkönen and Rimpinen, both born in 2006, combined for 40 saves, while early minor confrontations added some edge before the game moved into overtime. Väisänen scored at 62:15, recorded as the first and final goal of the contest.

Why It Matters

The student-themed crowd and overtime finish gave the game a distinctive atmosphere. The combined 40-save total also put the focus firmly on Härkönen and Rimpinen, while the Kiekko-Espoo supporters in attendance had reason to enjoy the outcome.

Mini Q&A

Who were the goalkeepers and how many saves did they make?

The goalkeepers were Masi Härkönen and Petteri Rimpinen, both born in 2006; they combined for 40 saves.

Who scored and when?

Jere Väisänen scored at 62:15 in overtime; it was recorded as the first and final goal of the game.