Tag: IHM News

Veteran centre Jori Lehterä retires mid-season

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HIFK announced on Saturday that 38-year-old centre Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey. Lehterä had played four games for HIFK this season and had just reached the 400-game mark in Liiga. Head coach Olli Jokinen said the decision came as a surprise to the club.

Key Facts

  • HIFK announced that 38-year-old Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey.
  • Lehterä played four games for HIFK in the current season before announcing his decision.
  • He had just reached 400 Liiga games played.
  • Lehterä spent the last four seasons with HIFK.
  • Earlier in his Liiga career he played for Jokerit and Tappara.
  • Lehterä is a Finnish champion from spring 2023.
  • He has played internationally in the NHL and the KHL.
  • With the Finnish national team (Leijonat) Lehterä won World Championship silver and Olympic bronze.
  • HIFK head coach Olli Jokinen said the decision was a surprise to the club: ” Nothing has happened. That came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.”

IHM Discussion

Jori Lehterä’s decision to end his career mid-season is notable both for its timing and for the experience it removes from HIFK’s roster. Lehterä is a veteran centre with a long professional career across Liiga, the NHL and the KHL, and he recently cleared the 400-game threshold in Finland’s top league. Having spent the last four seasons in Helsinki and won a Finnish title in 2023, his departure is an unexpected change for HIFK.

The reaction from head coach Olli Jokinen underlines how sudden the announcement was for the organisation. Jokinen said the decision “came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.” HIFK will now need to adjust following the loss of an experienced centre, while the club has provided no further detail on Lehterä’s decision.

Why It Matters

Lehterä’s retirement matters because it removes an experienced centre from HIFK during the season. His 400 Liiga games, international experience and four seasons with HIFK give the decision added significance. For Liiga, the departure of a player with NHL, KHL and national-team experience marks the end of a substantial career. Jokinen’s surprise also indicates that the decision was not expected by the club.

Mini Q&A

Has Jori Lehterä retired mid-season?

Yes. HIFK announced that 38-year-old Jori Lehterä is retiring from hockey.

How many games did Lehterä play for HIFK this season before retiring?

Lehterä played four games for HIFK in the current season before his retirement announcement.

What are Lehterä’s notable career achievements mentioned?

He had just reached 400 Liiga games, is a Finnish champion from spring 2023, has played in the NHL and KHL, and won World Championship silver and Olympic bronze with Finland.

What did HIFK head coach Olli Jokinen say about the decision?

Jokinen said the decision was a surprise to the club: ” Nothing has happened. That came as much a surprise to us as it did to you.”

HIFK lose to Lukko in overtime as Tappara build early lead over Jokerit

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Helsingin IFK lost at home to Lukko 2-3 in overtime after surrendering a 2-0 lead that had stood until the middle of the second period. Alex Beaucage scored the overtime winner for Lukko. In a separate game, Tappara took control against Jokerit at the Veikkaus-areena, leading 0-3 after the first period; Jyrki Jokipakka assisted Tappara’s opening strike and Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen had given Tappara a three-goal cushion by 8:38 of the first.

Key Facts

  • Helsingin IFK lost at home to Lukko 2-3 in overtime.
  • HIFK led 2-0 until approximately the middle of the second period before Lukko levelled the game.
  • Jokerit’s poor home form continued at the Veikkaus-areena as they trailed Tappara.
  • Tappara led Jokerit 0-3 after the first period.
  • Jyrki Jokipakka assisted Tappara’s opening goal shortly after the game began.
  • By 8:38 of the first period Tappara were already 0-3 ahead, with goals from Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen.

IHM Discussion

A difficult night for the Helsinki clubs. HIFK let a 2-0 lead slip before Alex Beaucage settled the game for Lukko in overtime. The result continued HIFK’s poor start to the season and showed how quickly a strong position can disappear. Jokerit were also chasing the game from the outset after Tappara established a 0-3 lead in the opening period.

Why It Matters

HIFK had a 2-0 lead through the middle of the second period but came away with an overtime defeat, adding to their difficult start to the season. Jokerit faced an immediate test after Tappara’s rapid three-goal opening, while Tappara gave themselves a commanding position early in the game.

Mini Q&A

What was the result between HIFK and Lukko?

HIFK lost to Lukko 2-3 in overtime.

Who scored the overtime winner for Lukko?

Alex Beaucage scored the overtime winner for Lukko.

How did Tappara get ahead of Jokerit?

Tappara built a 0-3 lead by the end of the first period; Jyrki Jokipakka assisted the opening goal and Niclas Almarin and Tomi Sallinen also scored, giving Tappara a three-goal cushion by 8:38 of the first.

Are the Helsinki teams showing good form?

No; the reports describe HIFK’s season start as poor and note that Jokerit’s poor performances at the Veikkaus-areena continued.

IHM NHL Rumors: Canucks commit to rebuild under Sedins and Johnson

Canucks commit to rebuild under Sedins and Johnson

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Vancouver has reset its hockey operations structure, with Daniel and Henrik Sedin serving as co-presidents and Ryan Johnson as general manager. The Canucks are pursuing a longer-term rebuild following the Jim Rutherford and Patrik Allvin era, which included the J.T. Miller trade to the New York Rangers and Quinn Hughes’ move to Minnesota.

Vancouver received Zeev Buium, Marco Rossi, Liam Öhgren and a first-round pick in the Hughes trade. Buium has since signed an eight-year extension. The club also moved Nils Höglander, Marcus Pettersson and Conor Garland, while Manny Malhotra has taken over as head coach.

Key Facts

  • Miller had locker-room dysfunction during the 2024-25 period; both later received eight-year contract extensions.
  • Reportedly, J.T. Miller was traded to the New York Rangers.
  • Quinn Hughes told management he wanted to leave Vancouver and play with his brothers in New Jersey.
  • Zeev Buium is a 20-year-old defenceman who has signed an eight-year extension.
  • Patrik Allvin was relieved of his duties as general manager, while Jim Rutherford transitioned into a senior advisor role.
  • Daniel and Henrik Sedin were promoted to co-presidents of hockey operations, with Ryan Johnson named general manager.
  • Manny Malhotra was hired as the Canucks’ head coach.
  • Reportedly, Brock Boeser, Filip Hronek and Elias Pettersson are the current leadership group referenced by the club.

IHM Discussion

Vancouver’s changes amount to a clear organisational reset. The previous regime’s major roster decisions included the departures of J.T. Miller and Quinn Hughes; the latter trade brought Zeev Buium, Marco Rossi, Liam Öhgren and a first-round pick to the Canucks.

The Sedins now lead hockey operations as co-presidents, with Ryan Johnson as general manager and Manny Malhotra behind the bench. That structure gives Vancouver a defined group responsible for connecting roster decisions, player development and the club’s competitive timeline.

The essential test will be patience. Acquiring young talent is only the first step; the Canucks must provide those players with stable roles and allow the group time to develop.

Why It Matters

Vancouver’s rebuild will be judged by how effectively it turns its new core into a sustainable NHL group. Buium, Rossi, Öhgren and the first-round pick acquired for Hughes give the organisation meaningful building blocks, while the Sedins, Johnson and Malhotra now have responsibility for setting the club’s direction.

The immediate priority is to establish a stable identity rather than chase short-term fixes. That will shape future roster decisions and the opportunities available to younger players.

IHM Market Outlook

Vancouver has already moved Nils Höglander, Marcus Pettersson and Conor Garland as it reshapes the roster. Jake DeBrusk, Brock Boeser and Elias Pettersson remain names linked to trade speculation, but no further move is established here.

Buium’s eight-year extension signals that Vancouver views him as a central part of its young core rather than a short-term trade asset.

Mini Q&A

What are Daniel and Henrik Sedin’s roles with the Canucks?

Daniel and Henrik Sedin were promoted to co-presidents of hockey operations, while Ryan Johnson was named general manager.

Is Zeev Buium viewed as a long-term piece for Vancouver?

Yes. Zeev Buium signed an eight-year extension, underlining his place in Vancouver’s young core.

Does the article claim the Canucks will trade established players?

Vancouver has moved Nils Höglander, Marcus Pettersson and Conor Garland. Jake DeBrusk, Brock Boeser and Elias Pettersson have also been linked to trade speculation, though no further deal is established here.

Coach Mark Comment

The most important coaching task is consistency. A rebuilding club needs clear standards, defined roles and enough patience to let younger players work through mistakes. With Manny Malhotra now behind the bench, the Canucks’ daily habits and team structure will matter more than quick fixes.

IHM Final View

Vancouver has put a new leadership structure in place for its rebuild: Daniel and Henrik Sedin as co-presidents, Ryan Johnson as general manager and Manny Malhotra as head coach. The Hughes trade supplied key young assets, and Buium’s long-term extension underlines the intention to build around that emerging core. The next measure of progress is whether the club can turn that plan into a stable, competitive identity.

André Heim agrees three-year deal with Genève-Servette

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Genève-Servette HC have agreed terms with André Heim on a three-year contract that becomes valid for the 2027-28 season. The 28-year-old forward’s deal will run until 2030. Team manager Marc Gautschi described Heim as a “versatile and intelligent centre who works hard in all three zones and is capable of leading a line”, and said the club expects him to recapture the offensive impact he has shown previously. Heim is a product of SC Bern‘s organisation and played for the Bears until spring 2021, when he joined HC Ambrì-Piotta. He is currently in his sixth season with the Biancoblù and has yet to register a point in the first three games of the current season.

Key Facts

  • André Heim, 28-year-old forward, has signed a three-year deal with Genève-Servette HC.
  • The contract is valid as of the 2027-28 season and runs until 2030.
  • Genève-Servette team manager Marc Gautschi said Heim is a ” versatile and intelligent centre who works hard in all three zones and is capable of leading a line.”
  • Heim is a product of SC Bern’s organisation and played for the Bears until spring 2021.
  • Heim signed with HC Ambrì-Piotta in spring 2021 and is currently in his sixth season with the Biancoblù.
  • In the first three games of the season, Heim has yet to put his name on the scoresheet.

IHM Discussion

On paper, the signing is a future-facing acquisition for Genève-Servette: the contract takes effect from the 2027-28 season rather than immediately. The club’s public rationale, via Marc Gautschi, places weight on Heim’s two-way game and previous offensive output. That description fits Heim’s career path as a Bern youth product who joined Ambrì-Piotta in 2021. The timing means any contribution to the Grenats’ line-up and results remains prospective rather than immediate.

Why It Matters

For Genève-Servette, the deal secures a centre with National League experience and a Bern development background. If Heim reproduces earlier offensive form while maintaining the two-way qualities highlighted by Gautschi, he could provide depth down the middle or lead a secondary line. For Heim, the agreement represents a change of environment scheduled for the 2027-28 season and a multi-year commitment through 2030.

Mini Q&A

When does André Heim’s contract with Genève-Servette take effect?

The deal is valid as of the 2027-28 season.

How long is the contract and when does it end?

It is a three-year contract that will run until 2030.

Where has Heim played most recently?

Heim signed with HC Ambrì-Piotta in spring 2021 and is currently in his sixth season with the Biancoblù.

What did Genève-Servette say Heim will bring?

Team manager Marc Gautschi described Heim as a versatile, intelligent centre who works hard in all three zones and is capable of leading a line, and said the club expects him to recapture previous offensive impact.

Has Heim scored in the current season?

Reportedly, Heim has yet to put his name on the scoresheet in the first three games of the season.

What Comes Next

The explicit future checkpoint is the contract’s start: Heim’s deal with Genève-Servette is valid as of the 2027-28 season, after which his three-year term will run until 2030.

Julius Junttila ends playing career, aged 35

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Julius Junttila, 35, has retired from playing, Kaleva reported. Junttila joined his youth-system club Kärpät on a contract for the remainder of last season, and that campaign became the final season of his career. He told Kaleva that the decision matured over the winter and that he does not regret it.

Key Facts

  • Julius Junttila, 35, has retired from playing, reported by Kaleva.
  • Junttila returned to his youth club Kärpät last season on an end-of-season contract signed in October.
  • Last season with Kärpät was the final season of Junttila’s playing career.
  • He won three Finnish championships with Kärpät in 2014, 2015 and 2018.
  • In spring 2018 Junttila was selected both as the regular-season and the playoff best player.
  • Junttila won SM-bronze with Kärpät in spring 2024.
  • He spent the majority of his career playing in Oulu.
  • Junttila played two seasons in Sweden’s SHL.
  • He played in the KHL with HK Sibir Novosibirsk and with Jokerit.
  • In the season before last he played in the Czech Extraliga.
  • Junttila represented Finland at the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic Games.

IHM Discussion

Junttila’s retirement closes the career of a prominent Liiga forward whose best years were anchored to Kärpät. His career included a peak 2018 season in which he was selected as the best player in both the regular season and play-offs, alongside three Finnish championships and an Olympic appearance in Pyeongchang.

Why It Matters

For Kärpät the departure of a long-serving club youth product and three-time champion is notable for culture and continuity as much as for on-ice output. Junttila’s medals and 2018 MVP recognitions underline the standard he set at the club; his retirement marks the end of a career that bridged domestic titles, international play and several spells abroad.

Mini Q&A

Who has retired?

Julius Junttila, the 35-year-old forward, has retired from playing.

When and where was the retirement reported?

Kaleva reported the retirement on a Monday.

How did Junttila finish his career?

He finished his career with his youth-system club Kärpät after signing a contract for the remainder of the season in October; that season was his last.

What are the main highlights of his career?

Junttila won Finnish championships with Kärpät in 2014, 2015 and 2018, was named both regular-season and playoff best player in spring 2018, won SM-bronze with Kärpät in spring 2024 and represented Finland at the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympics.

IHM NHL Rumors: Kucherov reportedly seeking around $20 million per season in extension talks

Kucherov reportedly seeking around $20 million per season in extension talks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Nikita Kucherov is eligible for a contract extension and, according to Chris Johnston, may be seeking around $20 million per season on a multi-year deal. Johnston noted that Kucherov, 33, is coming off a Hart Trophy and has produced 120- and 130-point seasons, but warned that a major commitment to a player at that age carries added risk.

Johnston described Tampa Bay general manager Julien BriseBois as methodical and noted that the Lightning have previously allowed Steven Stamkos to leave as a free agent rather than overcommit. He also suggested that, if Kucherov reaches unrestricted free agency after this season, he would command a massive offer.

Key Facts

  • Nikita Kucherov is extension-eligible, per the report.
  • Chris Johnston said he had heard Kucherov was seeking something in the $20 million range on a six-year deal.
  • Johnston said Kucherov is age 33 and is turning towards 34.
  • Johnston described Kucherov as coming off a Hart Trophy.
  • Johnston said Kucherov has been ‘stacking 120, 130-point seasons’.
  • Johnston warned there is ‘a lot of risk’ signing a player of that age to a large contract.
  • Johnston said he ‘can’t really imagine him moving on from Tampa, big picture’, but also said that as a free agent Kucherov would ‘get a massive deal’.
  • When asked if Kucherov could get $20 million as a UFA on July 1, Johnston replied ‘100%’.
  • Johnston cited Seattle’s pursuit of star players as an example of clubs seeking high-end talent.
  • Johnston said Julian BriseBois does not manage with his heart, is ‘very methodical’, and ‘sticks to his plan’.
  • Johnston cited the Steven Stamkos situation as an example of Tampa Bay allowing a franchise player to leave as a free agent rather than reaching a deal. He said Kucherov and BriseBois had addressed the contract situation at the start of training camp, and suggested there remains time to find a compromise.

IHM Discussion

The figure Johnston floated – around $20 million per season on a multi-year extension – would be a market-moving number. For Tampa Bay, the calculation concerns term, structure and the club’s tolerance for ageing-player risk.

Johnston’s reminders about Kucherov’s age and recent peak performance are central to that calculation. The case for a major deal is straightforward: Kucherov remains one of the League’s most productive forwards and, as Johnston noted, is coming off a Hart Trophy. The counterargument is that a long, expensive agreement for a player in his mid-30s can become increasingly difficult to carry if performance declines.

Tampa Bay’s front-office posture matters. Johnston described Julien BriseBois as methodical and willing to make difficult decisions, using Steven Stamkos as the precedent. That history gives weight to the possibility that the Lightning will hold firm if the asking price threatens wider roster balance. Johnston also stressed that there is time for the negotiations to play out, leaving room for a compromise before Kucherov reaches unrestricted free agency after the season.

Why It Matters

The question of whether Tampa Bay can retain Kucherov on a deal near the reported level is consequential. A contract at that price would take up a substantial share of the club’s cap space and could limit flexibility elsewhere on the roster. If no extension is reached and Kucherov enters unrestricted free agency after the season, his availability could reshape the market for elite forwards.

The outcome would also underline the Lightning’s approach to ageing superstars: follow the hard decisions associated with the Stamkos precedent, or commit heavily to keeping one of the League’s premier offensive players in Tampa Bay.

IHM Market Outlook

If Kucherov reaches unrestricted free agency after the season, Johnston believes he would command a massive deal. He pointed to Seattle’s recent efforts to add star power as an example of the demand for elite talent around the League. That possibility strengthens Kucherov’s leverage while Tampa Bay works to find a compromise.

Mini Q&A

Is Nikita Kucherov extension-eligible?

Yes. Chris Johnston reported that Nikita Kucherov is extension-eligible.

How much is Kucherov reportedly seeking?

Johnston said he had heard Kucherov was looking for something in the $20 million range on a six-year deal.

What did Johnston say about Kucherov’s recent performance?

Johnston described Kucherov as coming off a Hart Trophy and ‘stacking 120, 130-point seasons’.

Would Kucherov get $20 million as a UFA on July 1?

When producer Drew asked if Kucherov could get $20 million as a UFA on July 1, Johnston replied ‘100%’.

What did Johnston say about Tampa Bay’s front office approach?

Johnston characterised general manager Julian BriseBois as ‘very methodical’, saying he ‘does not manage with his heart’ and will stick to his plan, using the Steven Stamkos situation as an example of the club walking away from a franchise player.

Coach Mark Comment

Kucherov’s value is not simply in his point total but in how he drives possession and creates chances for the players around him. For Tampa Bay, the coaching challenge is ensuring the wider forward group remains deep enough that the attack does not become overly dependent on one line.

What Comes Next

Contract talks can continue as Kucherov enters the final season of his current deal. Tampa Bay has indicated it wants to keep him for many years, while Kucherov can become an unrestricted free agent after the season if no agreement is reached.

IHM Final View

If no compromise is reached, Kucherov could enter unrestricted free agency after the season with a major market awaiting him.

IHM NHL News: McDavid leads 2026-27 fantasy hockey mock draft

McDavid leads 2026-27 fantasy hockey mock draft

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

A 12-team, 192-player non-keeper fantasy mock draft for the 2026-27 season was conducted on Monday,. It used standard categories – goals, assists, power-play points, shots on goal, hits and blocked shots for skaters; wins, goals-against average, save percentage and shutouts for goaltenders – with 16-player rosters comprising two centres, two left wings, two right wings, four defencemen, two goaltenders and four bench spots. Connor McDavid went first overall, followed by Nathan MacKinnon and Macklin Celebrini.

The Tkachuk brothers were selected back-to-back for the same simulated team, with Brady taken 24th and Matthew 25th. Connor Hellebuyck, suspended by the Winnipeg Jets after requesting a trade and failing to report to training camp, fell to 45th overall after going in the late second round of the first mock. Porter Martone was the first rookie selected, while Cutter Gauthier rose after signing a new contract with Anaheim. The draft also highlighted changing goaltending outlooks: Jesper Wallstedt has a chance to become Minnesota’s clear No. 1 while Filip Gustavsson is expected to miss the start of the season, and Brandon Bussi is likely to begin as Carolina’s starter after Frederik Andersen signed with Edmonton.

Key Facts

  • A 12-team, 192-player non-keeper fantasy mock draft was conducted on Monday,.
  • Draft format used standard fantasy categories for skaters and goalies and 16-player rosters: two centres, two left wings, two right wings, four defencemen, two goalies and four bench spots.
  • Connor McDavid was the No. 1 overall pick in the mock draft.
  • Nathan MacKinnon was selected No. 2 and Macklin Celebrini No. 3.
  • The first-round top 12 included Nikita Kucherov (4), Leon Draisaitl (5), Cale Makar (6) and Jack Hughes (12).
  • Brady Tkachuk was selected 24th overall (Round 2) and Matthew Tkachuk 25th overall (Round 3); the brothers were stacked on the same fantasy team in the simulation.
  • Five defencemen were taken in the first two rounds of the mock; only two goalies came off the board in that range.
  • Connor Hellebuyck was selected 45th overall (Round 4) after being described in the mock as suspended by the Winnipeg Jets following a trade request and failure to report to training camp.
  • Porter Martone was the first rookie taken in the mock draft and in both mock drafts.
  • Jesper Wallstedt was taken in Round 5 and is noted as having a chance to be Minnesota’s clear No. 1 goalie with Filip Gustavsson expected to miss the start of the season due to injury.
  • Brandon Bussi, taken in Round 6, was noted as likely to start for the Carolina Hurricanes after Frederik Andersen signed with the Edmonton Oilers.
  • Connor Bedard, Seth Jarvis and Brad Marchand were expected to miss the start of the season because of injury; Mathew Barzal could miss the start, while Dylan Larkin was dealing with an injury.

IHM Discussion

This mock draft is a useful snapshot of fantasy sentiment in late September. Elite offensive stars dominated the top of the board, while positional availability shaped several selections. Five defencemen were taken in the first two rounds, compared with two goaltenders, illustrating how managers approached the format’s category balance.

The Tkachuk brothers landing on the same simulated roster was one of the draft’s eye-catching outcomes. In a format that counts hits and power-play points alongside scoring, managers can weigh the appeal of complementary stat profiles against the risk of concentrating too much of a roster on one NHL club.

Availability and role uncertainty were prominent themes. Hellebuyck dropped from the late second round in the first mock to 45th overall here while suspended by Winnipeg. Gauthier moved from 35th to 26th after signing his new Anaheim contract, and Martone again led the rookie class. Camp usage also informed the discussion around players such as Cole Hutson, who could see time on Washington’s first power play as a rookie.

Why It Matters

For fantasy managers preparing for drafts, the simulation offers several practical reference points. Five defencemen were taken in the first two rounds, showing how quickly the position can move in this format. Goaltending situations in Minnesota, Carolina and Vegas also remain relevant to draft planning, particularly in leagues that use multiple goalie categories. Hellebuyck’s fall to the fourth round shows how uncertainty over player availability can affect a simulated board, while Martone, Gauthier and Hutson were among younger players whose roles and circumstances drew attention.

Fan Pulse

Dallas had four players selected in the first two rounds, the most of any team in the simulation. Fan-selected teams were supplemented where necessary by simulated picks based on Yahoo Fantasy average draft position.

Mini Q&A

When and what format was this mock draft?

The 12-team, 192-player non-keeper mock draft was conducted on Monday,. It used standard fantasy categories and 16-player rosters: two centres, two left wings, two right wings, four defencemen, two goaltenders and four bench spots.

Who were the top three picks?

Connor McDavid was chosen first overall, Nathan MacKinnon was second and Macklin Celebrini third in the simulation.

Why did Connor Hellebuyck fall in the mock draft?

The mock notes Connor Hellebuyck had been suspended by the Winnipeg Jets after requesting a trade and not reporting to training camp, and he was selected 45th overall (late fourth round) in the simulation.

Which rookies and young players were highlighted?

Porter Martone was the first rookie taken in both mock drafts. Cutter Gauthier rose after signing a new contract, while Cole Hutson was identified as a rookie who could see early power-play time.

Which goalie situations did the mock flag?

Jesper Wallstedt was noted as having a chance to be Minnesota’s clear No. 1 while Filip Gustavsson is expected to miss the start of the season; Brandon Bussi was identified as likely to start for Carolina after Frederik Andersen signed with Edmonton.

Coach Mark Comment

Camp line combinations and power-play usage are worth monitoring, but fantasy managers should not overreact to every September experiment. The stronger signal is a player’s likely role once games begin. For goaltenders, availability and a clear path to starts can matter as much as name value in a format that counts wins, save percentage, goals-against average and shutouts.

What Comes Next

Monitor the availability of Bedard, Gustavsson, Jarvis, Barzal and Marchand as the season approaches. Hellebuyck’s suspension status, Adam Fantilli’s restricted-free-agent status and Alexander Nikishin’s unsigned status are also developments to watch.

IHM Final View

This second mock draft offers fantasy managers a detailed early-season reference point. McDavid led the board, elite skaters dominated the opening selections and uncertainty around availability reshaped several choices. Its value lies in the concrete situations to monitor as the regular season approaches.

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

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

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

Why It Matters

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

Mini Q&A

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

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

Why did the Stars choose to extend him?

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

How did Steel perform last season?

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

Could Steel have become a free agent?

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

Fantasy hockey top 250 rankings for 2026-27

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

Why It Matters

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

Mini Q&A

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

Connor McDavid is ranked No. 1 overall.

Which players occupy the top five positions?

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

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

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

How was value quantified for the rankings?

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

What related fantasy content is available?

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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

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

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

Why It Matters

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

Mini Q&A

What is Alex Ovechkin’s injury status?

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

How old is Ovechkin and what season is he beginning?

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

Which line had Ovechkin been practising on in camp?

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

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

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

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

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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