Tag: IHM News

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.

Ulf Engman becomes Luleå GM – takes charge immediately

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Luleå Hockey have announced that vice general manager Ulf Engman will take over the club’s general manager duties immediately. The move accelerates a previously stated succession plan: Thomas Fröberg had decided, for family reasons, that the 2026/27 season would be his last as general manager. Club director Per Ekervhen said the early announcement is intended to give clarity to players and agents and to allow him and Engman to continue work on the club’s future sporting organisation. The club also notes Engman has worked for Luleå in various roles for 15 years and will continue to work with Fröberg.

Key Facts

  • Ulf Engman, until now vice general manager, will take over Thomas Fröberg’s role at Luleå with immediate effect.
  • Thomas Fröberg had previously decided that the 2026/27 season would be his final season as general manager, citing his family situation.
  • Luleå club director Per Ekervhen said the early announcement is to clarify the situation for players and agents negotiating with the club.
  • Per Ekervhen added that announcing the change now allows him and Engman to continue work on the club’s future sporting organisation.

IHM Discussion

The accelerated handover gives Luleå clarity over who will lead its sporting work as discussions with players and agents continue. Engman’s 15 years in various roles at the club gives the transition a strong element of continuity, while Per Ekervhen and Engman continue shaping Luleå’s future sporting organisation.

Why It Matters

A GM change can influence recruitment, contract priorities and the sporting-management structure. Naming Engman now gives players and agents clarity over Luleå’s leadership while the club continues planning its future sporting organisation.

Mini Q&A

Who is the new general manager at Luleå Hockey?

Ulf Engman, previously vice general manager, will take over the general manager role with immediate effect.

Why was the change announced now?

Club director Per Ekervhen said the early announcement is intended to make clear the situation for players and agents negotiating with Luleå and so he and Engman can continue work on the club’s future sporting organisation.

What did Thomas Fröberg plan previously?

Thomas Fröberg had decided that the 2026/27 season would be his last season as general manager, citing his family situation.

What Comes Next

Thomas Fröberg had earlier indicated that the 2026/27 season would be his final season in the GM role; how Luleå finalises its longer-term sporting organisation under Engman’s immediate leadership is the next organisational development to watch.

Pavol Regenda goes straight into HV71’s top line

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

HV71’s new signing Pavol Regenda has been placed directly into a top forward line alongside Jan Mysak and Jonathan Ang after his first on-ice session with the SHL club. The 26-year-old Slovak Olympic forward with NHL experience arrived in Jönköping at the weekend, has trained recently in Slovakia and says he hopes to be available for HV71’s upcoming match with Skellefteå while acknowledging he must be ready to play.

Key Facts

  • HV71 sport chief Johan Hult described the signing of Pavol Regenda as a major acquisition, saying he” will add cutting edge to our forward group”.
  • Pavol Regenda, 26, is described in reports as a Slovak Olympic forward with NHL experience.
  • Regenda was placed straight into a top line during his first ice session for HV71.
  • The reported top line pairs Pavol Regenda with Jan Mysak and Jonathan Ang.
  • Regenda said he has previously played with Jan Mysak and that Ang is a good player, so the line worked well.
  • Regenda said it is ” a big responsibility” and that he wants to ” contribute with goals to the team”.
  • He arrived in Jönköping late on Saturday and had previously been training with a team in Slovakia.
  • It is not yet clear whether Regenda will be available for HV71’s Thursday meeting with Skellefteå; Regenda said, ” I hope to be in that game” but that he must ensure he is ready.
  • Regenda cited Jan Mysak as a major factor behind his move and said he wants to play near the opponent’s goal to earn another chance in North America and a return to the NHL.

IHM Discussion

The club has signalled clear intent by placing Regenda immediately into the top unit with Jan Mysak and Jonathan Ang. That choice underlines both the expectation placed on Regenda and HV71’s willingness to use his NHL and Olympic experience in a leading role from the start. Regenda’s own comments reinforce the message: he knows Mysak from earlier co-operation, respects Ang and intends to contribute goals while positioning himself close to the opponent’s net. The arrival comes amid an early-season mood where pressure is tangible after the team’s recent collapse from 3-0 to 4-5 against Malmö, a context the player and club will need to manage as he integrates.

Why It Matters

Regenda’s insertion into the top line matters because the club has explicitly linked his signing to added cutting edge in the forward group. A productive role would give HV71 another offensive option while helping Regenda pursue his stated aim of returning to North America and the NHL.

Mini Q&A

Who has Regenda been paired with in HV71’s reported top line?

Pavol Regenda was placed in a top line with Jan Mysak and Jonathan Ang.

Is Pavol Regenda available for the next HV71 game against Skellefteå?

His availability is not yet clear; Regenda said he hopes to be in that match but must ensure he is ready during the week.

What does Regenda say about his role and ambitions?

Regenda described the role as a big responsibility, said he wants to contribute goals and play around the opponent’s net, and cited the move as part of his aim to earn another chance in North America and a return to the NHL.

What Comes Next

The immediate question is whether Regenda feels ready to play in HV71’s Thursday meeting with Skellefteå.

IHM Final View

HV71 have made a direct statement by placing Pavol Regenda in a top line from his first training session. The arrangement gives him an early chance to contribute as he pursues his stated aim of returning to North America and the NHL.

Lodin: ‘It looked as though he had died’ after Johansson cramp scare

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Linus Johansson, captain of Färjestad, was helped from the ice midway through the third period of Färjestad’s season-opening 7-0 victory over Örebro after a scary-looking incident. Team-mate Viktor Lodin relayed a calming update afterwards, saying it was only cramp. Johansson trained fully on Monday and described the moment as worse than it looked, calling it a ” pärs” (ordeal). Färjestad travel to Gothenburg to face Frölunda tomorrow with puck drop at 19:00.

Key Facts

  • Färjestad defeated Örebro 7-0 in the season opener.
  • Linus Johansson was helped off the ice midway through the third period after a frightening stoppage.
  • Viktor Lodin told Värmlands Folkblad: ” Det är lugnt! Det var bara kramp.” (” It’s fine! It was just cramp.”).
  • After the game Lodin joked: ” It looked like he died! And then it’s cramp! Drink water – what is going on,” and said Johansson mocked him for a goal celebration.
  • Johansson said: ” Det ska gudarna veta” about whether he immediately knew it was cramp, and added that he usually does not stay down but this time it was hard to get up.
  • Johansson trained fully on Monday.
  • Färjestad are scheduled to play Frölunda in Gothenburg tomorrow (Tuesday) with a 19:00 puck drop.

IHM Discussion

The immediate message from Färjestad was reassuring: Viktor Lodin said the episode was cramp rather than a more serious issue. Johansson’s own account supports that assessment. He said it was difficult to get up and felt like an ordeal at the time, but that it looked worse than it was. His full participation in Monday’s training adds another encouraging sign ahead of the trip to Gothenburg.

Why It Matters

Any apparent injury scare involving a captain will draw attention early in a season. Färjestad’s 7-0 win gives them momentum heading into the meeting with Frölunda, while Johansson’s full Monday training offers reassurance after the stoppage.

Mini Q&A

What happened to Linus Johansson during the opener?

He was helped off the ice midway through the third period after a worrying-looking incident. Johansson later said it was cramp and that it looked worse than it was.

What did Viktor Lodin say about the incident?

Lodin told Värmlands Folkblad that it was ” fine” and ” just cramp,” and later joked that it had looked as if Johansson had died before it turned out to be cramp.

Did Johansson return to training?

Yes. Reportedly, Johansson trained fully on Monday.

When is Färjestad’s next game?

Färjestad travel to Gothenburg to play Frölunda on Tuesday, with puck drop at 19:00.

What Comes Next

Färjestad travel to Gothenburg for Tuesday’s second-round meeting with Frölunda, with puck drop at 19:00. Johansson’s involvement will be watched after the cramp scare.

Hartmann ruled out for Rögle; Vejdemo steps in

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

Sebastian Hartmann was forced out of Djurgården’s season opener against Björklöven after taking a hit in the second period. Head coach Robert Kimby said on Monday that Hartmann is “better than expected” but will not play tomorrow. Lukas Vejdemo, who took Hartmann’s place during the game, is expected to remain alongside Nils Åman and Joe Snively for Tuesday’s match against Rögle.

Key Facts

  • Sebastian Hartmann left Djurgården’s season opener against Björklöven after a hit in the second period.
  • Head coach Robert Kimby said Hartmann was “better than expected”, but would not play on Tuesday against Rögle.
  • Kimby said Vejdemo brought good activity and that his skating and energy suited a line with Åman and Snively.
  • Lukas Vejdemo was moved into the line with Nils Åman and Joe Snively during the Björklöven game.
  • Sebastian Hartmann is 32 years old and joined Djurgården for 2026/27 after seven straight seasons with Timrå IK.
  • Hartmann has generally produced around 20 points per season and scored in each of the last three pre-season/training matches before the 2026/27 campaign.
  • When Hartmann signed, sporting director Marcus Due-Boje described him as a gritty, strong-skating right-shot forward with power in his game, significant SHL experience and experience in all situations.
  • Djurgården’s Monday training group listed the following: Goalkeepers – Magnus Hellberg, Daniel Marmenlind. Defence pairs – Nikolas Brouillard / Colby Sissons; Philip Holm / Gustav Lindström; Hugo Blixt / Jesper Pettersson; Liam Pettersson / Egon Ekberg (J20). Forwards – Joe Snively / Nils Åman / Lukas Vejdemo; Charles Hudon / Jacob Josefson / Mathias Emilio Pettersen; Theo Stockselius / Marcus Krüger / Noel Gunler; Albin Grewe / Håvard Salsten / David Blomgren; Henrik Eriksson.

IHM Discussion

Kimby offered an encouraging update on Hartmann, while confirming that the forward will miss Tuesday’s game against Rögle. Djurgården have an immediate solution in Vejdemo, who moved onto the line with Åman and Snively during the opener and is set to remain there. Kimby specifically highlighted Vejdemo’s skating and energy as qualities that fit the combination.

Why It Matters

Hartmann’s absence removes a newly signed, experienced SHL forward from Djurgården’s line-up for the Rögle game. He arrived after seven consecutive seasons with Timrå and had scored in each of the final three pre-season matches. Vejdemo’s continued role alongside Åman and Snively gives Djurgården continuity in one forward line while Hartmann is unavailable.

Mini Q&A

Is Sebastian Hartmann injured and will he play the next game?

Hartmann left the opener after taking a hit in the second period. Kimby said he was “better than expected” but would not play on Tuesday against Rögle.

Who replaced Hartmann in the lineup?

Lukas Vejdemo stepped into the line with Nils Åman and Joe Snively during the game and Kimby expects him to continue in that role for Tuesday’s match against Rögle.

What is Hartmann’s background?

Hartmann is 32 years old, arrived at Djurgården for 2026/27 after seven straight seasons with Timrå IK, has generally produced around 20 points per season and scored in each of the last three pre-season matches.

Which goalkeepers and defensive pairs trained on Monday?

Goalkeepers: Magnus Hellberg and Daniel Marmenlind. Defence pairs listed included Nikolas Brouillard – Colby Sissons; Philip Holm – Gustav Lindström; Hugo Blixt – Jesper Pettersson; Liam Pettersson – Egon Ekberg (J20).

Coach Mark Comment

Vejdemo’s continued place with Åman and Snively gives Djurgården continuity rather than forcing an immediate reshuffle. His skating and energy are the attributes Kimby identified as the best fit for that line.

What Comes Next

Djurgården face Rögle on Tuesday, with Vejdemo set to continue alongside Nils Åman and Joe Snively. Hartmann will not play in that game.

IHM Final View

Djurgården will be without Sebastian Hartmann against Rögle, but have a clear short-term adjustment in Lukas Vejdemo. Kimby believes Vejdemo’s skating and energy fit alongside Åman and Snively, giving the club continuity in the immediate line-up change.

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

Canadiens primed to buy; any move requires swap

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published:

Story Summary

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

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

Key Facts

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

IHM Discussion

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

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

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

Why It Matters

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

IHM Market Outlook

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

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

Mini Q&A

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

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

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

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

When might Montréal have more meaningful cap space?

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

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

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

Will adding a player be straightforward for Montréal?

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

Coach Mark Comment

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

What Comes Next

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

IHM Final View

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