Tag: NHL

NHL Board receives expansion update; Leonsis named chairman

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 23, 2026, 15:02 CEST

Story Summary

The NHL Board of Governors on Tuesday received an update from the League on recent expansion interest, including a proposal from The Friedkin Group, led by CEO Dan Friedkin, to bring a second team to Texas in Houston or Austin. Commissioner Gary Bettman said the League and The Friedkin Group are ” evaluating the feasibility of those markets” and that the evaluation is ongoing, with the next formal Board update expected in December. Bettman stressed there is no set timetable, telling governors, ” We’re not under any time constraint.” The League has also received ” strong expressions of interest” for expansion from groups in Atlanta and Arizona, as well as other markets.

In a separate Board decision, governors unanimously selected Ted Leonsis – Governor of the Washington Capitals and chairman of Monumental Sports and Entertainment – to replace Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs as chairman. Calgary Flames Governor Murray Edwards will take on the role of vice-chair. Jacobs announced his retirement as chairman after serving in that role for 19 years. Leonsis described the complementary roles he and Edwards expect to play: ” I’m more strategy, big picture, vision, new media; Murray is operations, finance.”

Key Facts

The Board of Governors received an update on expansion interest on Tuesday.
The Friedkin Group, led by CEO Dan Friedkin, has discussed bringing a second NHL team to Texas in Houston or Austin.
The League and The Friedkin Group are ” evaluating the feasibility of those markets”; the evaluation is ongoing.
The next chance for the League to formally update the Board of Governors on expansion will be in December.
Commissioner Gary Bettman said, ” We’re not under any time constraint.”
The League has received strong expressions of interest for expansion from groups in Atlanta and Arizona, and from other markets.
Bettman said, ” Expansion is a multibillion-dollar transaction which has an impact on all the other clubs in the League.”
Ted Leonsis, Governor of the Washington Capitals and chairman of Monumental Sports and Entertainment, was unanimously selected to replace Jeremy Jacobs as chairman.
Murray Edwards, Governor of the Calgary Flames, will serve as vice-chair.
Jeremy Jacobs announced his retirement as chairman after serving in that role for 19 years.
Leonsis said of his and Edwards’ partnership: ” I’m more strategy, big picture, vision, new media; Murray is operations, finance.”
Edwards said it was important to have Canadian representation at the top of the executive committee, adding, ” Hockey in Canada, it’s important. It matters.”

IHM Discussion

The Board meeting addressed expansion interest and a leadership transition within its executive committee. On expansion, the League is assessing unsolicited expressions of interest rather than working to a fixed deadline. Commissioner Gary Bettman said the League is “not under any time constraint” and described expansion as a multibillion-dollar transaction affecting every club.

The Friedkin Group’s interest in Houston or Austin remains under evaluation by the League and the group. Bettman also said the League has received strong expressions of interest from groups in Atlanta and Arizona, as well as other markets. December is the next opportunity for a formal update to the Board.

Governors unanimously selected Ted Leonsis as chairman, with Murray Edwards becoming vice-chair. Leonsis described their complementary outlooks as strategy and vision on one side, and operations and finance on the other. Edwards also stressed the importance of Canadian representation at the executive-committee level.

Why It Matters

Expansion is a League-wide decision because, as Bettman noted, it affects all existing clubs and requires broad governor support. The interest in Texas, alongside expressions of interest from Atlanta, Arizona and other markets, gives the Board several possibilities to assess without a stated timetable.

The leadership change also places Leonsis and Edwards at the head of the Board’s executive structure as those discussions continue. Their stated emphasis on strategy, operations and finance provides the framework they expect to bring to the role.

Mini Q&A

Who was selected chairman of the NHL Board of Governors?

Ted Leonsis, Governor of the Washington Capitals and chairman of Monumental Sports and Entertainment, was unanimously selected to replace Jeremy Jacobs as chairman.

Who will serve as vice-chair of the Board?

Murray Edwards, Governor of the Calgary Flames, will take on the role of vice-chair.

Which markets are under consideration for expansion?

The Friedkin Group has discussed bringing a second team to Texas in Houston or Austin. The League also reported strong expressions of interest from groups in Atlanta and Arizona, and from other markets.

When will the Board next receive a formal update on expansion?

The League said the next chance to formally update the Board of Governors on expansion will be in December.

What revenue projection did Commissioner Bettman provide?

Commissioner Bettman said the League is projecting revenue to reach $8.1 billion in local currency this season.

Coach Mark Comment

From an organisational perspective, a measured expansion process matters because any new club affects the wider League. The Board’s stated focus on strategy, operations and finance reflects the need to assess growth opportunities without rushing a decision.

What Comes Next

The League will provide its next formal update to the Board of Governors on expansion in December.

IHM Final View

The Board reaffirmed that NHL expansion remains an ongoing evaluation rather than a process with a fixed deadline. The Friedkin Group’s interest in Houston or Austin is under review, while Atlanta, Arizona and other markets have also drawn interest. At the same meeting, governors unanimously selected Leonsis as chairman and Edwards as vice-chair, placing a new leadership pairing atop the Board’s executive committee.

Top NHL teams likeliest to return to 2026-27 playoffs

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 23, 2026, 15:00 CEST

Story Summary

Dan Rosen’s National Hockey List ranks the six teams that missed the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs with the best chance to qualify in 2026-27. The order is Florida Panthers, Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs, St. Louis Blues and New Jersey Devils, with roster changes, goaltending situations and statistical context behind each selection.

Key Facts

The Panthers are already No. 4 in the first pre-season Super 16 power rankings referenced by Rosen.
Florida’s 2025-26 season was derailed when Aleksander Barkov suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp, Rosen writes; Barkov is back for 2026-27 and Brady Tkachuk has joined the roster.
Sergei Bobrovsky is no longer in Florida; Jacob Markstrom has returned to the Panthers organisation.
The Capitals had 95 points last season and missed the playoffs by three points; Rosen expects Washington to clear 100 points in 84 games and make the postseason.
Washington added forwards Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou and Boone Jenner, and Rosen notes a healthier Pierre-Luc Dubois as a factor.
Rosen highlights the Capitals’ size up front with Ilya Protas joining brother Aliaksei Protas and lists several big forwards and defencemen including Vincent Desharnais and Jakob Chychrun.
San Jose won 39 games and had 86 points last season, improving by 19 wins and 34 points from 2024-25; Rosen says the Sharks could end a seven-season playoff drought.
Macklin Celebrini scored 45 goals and 70 assists for 115 points in 82 games last season, per Rosen; Rosen also cites Will Smith, Michael Misa, Collin Graf and possible impact from No. 2 pick Ivar Stenberg.
San Jose’s defence additions include Jacob Trouba, Darnell Nurse and Michael Kesselring alongside Dmitry Orlov and Sam Dickinson; Rosen notes the Sharks allowed 3.54 goals per game last season (30th in the League).
The Maple Leafs missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2016, Rosen writes; Toronto signed Sergei Bobrovsky to a three-year contract in the off-season and added Darren Raddysh on an eight-year deal after his 70-point season (22 goals, 48 assists) in 73 games with Tampa Bay last year (per Rosen).

IHM Discussion

Rosen’s list links each club’s short-term playoff prospects to roster changes and clear issues from 2025-26. Florida sits first after Aleksander Barkov’s return from a training-camp knee injury, the arrival of Brady Tkachuk and Jacob Markstrom’s move into the crease. Washington’s case rests on forward additions Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou and Boone Jenner, along with a sizeable forward and defensive group. San Jose brings statistical momentum and young talent after a 19-win improvement, but must improve on the 3.54 goals per game it allowed last season. Toronto is more conditional: Rosen identifies Sergei Bobrovsky as a key addition, while noting his difficult 2025-26 campaign. St. Louis narrowly missed out and needs better special teams, while New Jersey has a high ceiling if its goaltending becomes a positive.

Why It Matters

The list offers a pre-season guide to teams that could reshape the playoff field. Rosen notes that, since the current format began in 2013-14, an average of 5.5 teams per season have reached the postseason after missing it the previous year; last season brought six-team turnover. Those potential returners could alter divisional races and displace incumbent playoff clubs.

Fan Pulse

Optimism and apprehension will coexist in these markets. Florida fans can point to Barkov’s return and Tkachuk’s arrival as tangible reasons for renewed confidence; Washington supporters will celebrate the physical upgrades and scoring additions that might convert close misses into post-season berths. San Jose’s fanbase can tout both the 39-win turnaround and Macklin Celebrini’s elite numbers as signs that a playoff return is realistic. Toronto fans face suspense: the Bobrovsky signing creates expectations of stabilised goaltending, but his poor prior season leaves chatter about ‘sink or swim’ stakes in early results. St. Louis followers will watch special teams closely, while Devils fans will be hopeful about forward talent but know the club’s fate may hinge on improved goaltending.

Mini Q&A

Who authored the list of top comeback candidates?

The list was written by Dan Rosen.

Which team does Rosen rank as most likely to return to the playoffs?

Rosen ranks the Florida Panthers first on his list of teams likely to qualify in 2026-27.

What are the key reasons Rosen gives for the Panthers being top pick?

Rosen cites Aleksander Barkov’s return from a season-ending knee injury, the arrival of Brady Tkachuk and Jacob Markstrom’s return to Florida, along with a No. 4 pre-season Super 16 ranking.

How many games will each team play in the 2026-27 regular season?

Rosen notes the schedule will be 84 games per team this season instead of 82.

Which team on the list had the biggest single-season improvement last year?

The San Jose Sharks improved by 19 wins and 34 points from 2024-25 to last season, finishing with 39 wins and 86 points.

What concern does Rosen flag most clearly for the Maple Leafs and Devils?

Rosen highlights goaltending as the principal concern for both Toronto and New Jersey.

Coach Mark Comment

The common thread is that each club has a specific area to turn into standings points. Florida must restore its rhythm with Barkov back, Washington has added depth and size, and San Jose needs its new blue-line group to help limit goals against. St. Louis has a clear special-teams target, while Toronto and New Jersey will need dependable goaltending to support their attacking talent.

What Comes Next

Early-season goaltending performance, the Panthers’ health with Aleksander Barkov back, Sergei Bobrovsky’s form in Toronto and whether San Jose’s defensive additions reduce their goals-against rate are explicit checkpoints Rosen identifies as decisive.

IHM Final View

Rosen’s list is a pre-season snapshot built around roster moves, returning personnel and last season’s statistical gaps. Florida is his clearest candidate to return, with Washington and San Jose next on the strength of additions and recent progress. Toronto, St. Louis and New Jersey each have plausible but more conditional routes back to the playoffs.

World Juniors 2027 schedule revealed for Edmonton, Red Deer

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 23, 2026, 01:00 CEST

Story Summary

The full schedule for the 2027 World Junior Championship has been announced, with the tournament running from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5 in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta. The United States will open against Germany on Dec. 26 at Marchant Crane Centrium, while Canada begins preliminary-round play against Switzerland at Rogers Place. Ten teams are split into two groups: Group A – Finland, Germany, Slovakia, Sweden and the United States – will play its preliminary-round games in Red Deer, while Group B – Canada, Czechia, Latvia, Norway and Switzerland – will play in Edmonton. Quarterfinals are scheduled for Jan. 2, followed by semifinals on Jan. 4 and the third-place and championship games on Jan. 5 at Rogers Place.

Key Facts

The 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship will run from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5, 2027.
Games will be played at Rogers Place (Edmonton) and Marchant Crane Centrium (Red Deer).
The United States opens against Germany on Dec. 26 at Marchant Crane Centrium (9:30 p.m. ET).
Canada opens preliminary-round play against Switzerland on Dec. 26 at Rogers Place (7 p.m. ET).
Group A (Marchant Crane Centrium): Finland, Germany, Slovakia, Sweden, United States.
Group B (Rogers Place): Canada, Czechia, Latvia, Norway, Switzerland.
Ten teams total will compete; the top four in each group advance to the quarterfinals on Jan. 2; the relegation game is also Jan. 2.
Semifinals are scheduled for Jan. 4 at Rogers Place; the third-place and championship games are Jan. 5 at Rogers Place.
The United States, which won gold in 2024 and 2025 and finished fifth at the 2026 WJC, has won the World Junior Championship seven times overall, including titles in 2021, 2024 and 2025.
Wyatt Cullen (forward; Nashville Predators, No. 10, 2026 NHL Draft) and Chase Reid (defenseman; Seattle Kraken, No. 7, 2026 NHL Draft) are two players expected to play a big role for the United States.
Canada, bronze medallists at the 2026 WJC, could have a roster that includes up to six players chosen among the top 10 in the NHL Draft: Carson Carels (defenseman; Calgary Flames, No. 6, 2026), Daxon Rudolph (defenseman; Buffalo Sabres, No. 4, 2026), Keaton Verhoeff (defenseman; San Jose Sharks, No. 9, 2026), Caleb Desnoyers (forward; Utah Mammoth, No. 4, 2025), Caleb Malhotra (forward; Vancouver Canucks, No. 3, 2026) and Brady Martin (forward; Nashville Predators, No. 5, 2025).
Gavin McKenna, the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, is eligible to represent Canada but is expected to be playing in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Landon DuPont, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2027 NHL Draft who will play for the University of Michigan this season, is expected to play for Canada.

IHM Discussion

The schedule confirms a compact Alberta tournament that will again put leading NHL prospects on an international stage. Player availability will be a major storyline, with a number of recent high draft picks mentioned as potential contributors. Wyatt Cullen and Chase Reid are expected to play significant roles for the United States as it seeks a return to the medal stand after finishing fifth in 2026, following gold medals in 2024 and 2025. Canada could carry as many as six top-10 NHL Draft selections, while Sweden enters as defending champion after its 4-2 win against Czechia in the 2026 final and could include four 2026 first-round picks.

Why It Matters

The World Juniors offers national teams an early framework for roster planning and gives NHL clubs a prominent international stage on which to follow their prospects. The dates, venues and group assignments also establish the route to the knockout rounds, with both semifinals and the medal games scheduled for Rogers Place in Edmonton.

IHM Development Outlook

The tournament could feature a notable concentration of high-end draft talent. Cullen and Reid are expected to play important roles for the United States, while Canada could include several top-10 NHL Draft selections. DuPont is expected to play for Canada ahead of his 2027 draft, while McKenna is expected to be in the NHL with Toronto and may therefore be unavailable for the tournament.

Mini Q&A

When and where will the 2027 World Junior Championship be played?

The tournament will run from Dec. 26 to Jan. 5, 2027, with games at Rogers Place in Edmonton and Marchant Crane Centrium in Red Deer, Alberta.

Who do the United States and Canada play on opening day?

The United States opens against Germany on Dec. 26 at Marchant Crane Centrium; Canada opens against Switzerland on Dec. 26 at Rogers Place.

Which groups are playing in each venue?

Group A (Finland, Germany, Slovakia, Sweden, United States) will play preliminary-round games at Marchant Crane Centrium; Group B (Canada, Czechia, Latvia, Norway, Switzerland) will play at Rogers Place.

Which notable NHL-drafted prospects are mentioned in the tournament outlook?

Wyatt Cullen and Chase Reid are expected to play major roles for the United States. Canada could include Carson Carels, Daxon Rudolph, Keaton Verhoeff, Caleb Desnoyers, Caleb Malhotra and Brady Martin, while Landon DuPont is expected to play for Canada.

What is the schedule for the knockout rounds and medal games?

Quarterfinals are on Jan. 2, followed by semifinals on Jan. 4 at Rogers Place. The third-place and championship games are on Jan. 5 at Rogers Place.

Coach Mark Comment

The compressed tournament format puts a premium on clear roles, quick team cohesion and disciplined special-teams play. Teams that settle their identity early will give themselves the best chance of carrying momentum into the knockout rounds.

What Comes Next

Tournament play begins on Dec. 26. The relegation game and quarterfinals are scheduled for Jan. 2, followed by the semifinals on Jan. 4 and the third-place and championship games on Jan. 5 at Rogers Place.

IHM Final View

The published schedule fixes the calendar and frames the principal storylines: availability of elite prospects, the United States’ attempt to climb back onto the podium, Canada’s potential depth of top-draft talent and Sweden’s defence of its title after a 4-2 win in 2026. With quarterfinals and the medal rounds anchored at Rogers Place, Edmonton will be the focal point for late-stage, high-pressure hockey, while Red Deer provides the early-turn setting for Group A’s battle to secure a top-four finish and a place in the Jan. 2 quarterfinals.

Mikael Granlund named Anaheim Ducks captain for 2026-27

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 23, 2026, 00:56 CEST

Story Summary

Mikael Granlund was named captain of the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday, replacing Radko Gudas. The 34-year-old forward, entering his second season with Anaheim after signing a three-year deal on July 1, 2025, posted 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists) in 58 regular-season games and 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 12 playoff games last season as the Ducks reached the postseason for the first time since 2017-18. Granlund served as Finland’s captain at the 2026 Winter Olympics and will wear the ‘C’ with four alternates: Leo Carlsson, Alex Killorn, Troy Terry and Jackson LaCombe.

Key Facts

Mikael Granlund was named captain of the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday.
Granlund is 34 years old.
He is entering his second season with the Ducks after signing a three-year contract on July 1, 2025.
Last season Granlund had 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists) in 58 regular-season games for Anaheim.
He recorded 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 12 Stanley Cup Playoff games last season.
Granlund helped Anaheim reach the postseason for the first time since 2017-18; the Ducks eliminated the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference First Round before being eliminated by the Vegas Golden Knights.
Granlund replaces Radko Gudas, who was traded to the Florida Panthers on June 26 for A.J. Greer.
Anaheim’s alternate captains will be forwards Leo Carlsson, Alex Killorn and Troy Terry, and defenseman Jackson LaCombe.
Granlund served as Team Finland captain at the 2026 Winter Olympics and helped Finland win the bronze medal.
Granlund was a first-round pick (No. 9) by the Minnesota Wild at the 2010 NHL Draft.
He has 651 points (198 goals, 453 assists) in 960 regular-season NHL games with Minnesota, Nashville, Pittsburgh, San Jose, Dallas and Anaheim.
He has 52 points (21 goals, 31 assists) in 89 career playoff games.

IHM Discussion

Anaheim’s decision to hand the captaincy to Mikael Granlund formalises a leadership hierarchy after last season’s playoff return. Granlund brings recent on-ice credentials: 41 points in the regular season and 10 points in 12 Stanley Cup Playoff games after signing a multi-year contract with the Ducks.

The appointment follows the trade of Radko Gudas to Florida for A.J. Greer. Anaheim has selected a forward with extensive NHL experience and recent international captaincy. Granlund led Finland at the 2026 Winter Olympics, where the team won bronze, adding to his leadership background.

Pat Verbeek praised Granlund’s professionalism, humility, mentorship and quiet intensity. With 651 regular-season points in 960 NHL games, Granlund brings a substantial playing résumé to the role.

Anaheim’s four alternates – Leo Carlsson, Alex Killorn, Troy Terry and Jackson LaCombe – give the Ducks a broader leadership group around their new captain.

Why It Matters

A captaincy change is a visible organisational statement. For Anaheim, selecting Granlund follows a season in which the Ducks ended their playoff drought, giving the club a recent benchmark for its next step.

Granlund’s captaincy of Finland at the 2026 Olympics shows he has previously been entrusted with leadership responsibilities in a high-pressure international setting. That experience is distinct from serving as an NHL captain, but it adds another layer to his résumé.

On the ice, Granlund produced in both the regular season and playoffs last season. With Gudas traded to Florida and Granlund now wearing the ‘C’, Anaheim’s leadership group has taken a new shape.

Fan Pulse

Granlund’s scoring, playoff production and international leadership give fans a clear case for the appointment. The announced alternate captains also provide Anaheim with a leadership group spanning different parts of the roster.

Mini Q&A

Who is the new captain of the Anaheim Ducks?

Mikael Granlund was named captain of the Anaheim Ducks.

Who did Granlund replace as captain?

He replaces Radko Gudas, who was traded to the Florida Panthers on June 26 for A.J. Greer.

What are Granlund’s recent statistics with the Ducks?

Last season Granlund had 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists) in 58 regular-season games and 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 12 playoff games.

What experience does Granlund bring as a leader?

Granlund served as Team Finland captain at the 2026 Winter Olympics and helped Finland win the bronze medal, and he has nearly 1,000 NHL regular-season games and more than 650 career points.

Who will serve as alternate captains?

Leo Carlsson, Alex Killorn and Troy Terry (forwards) and Jackson LaCombe (defence) will be Anaheim’s alternate captains.

When is Anaheim’s next game and will Granlund be captain for it?

Anaheim’s season opener is at the Vegas Golden Knights on Oct. 2; that is the first regular-season opportunity mentioned for Granlund to wear the ‘C’.

Coach Mark Comment

Granlund’s experience gives Anaheim a captain who has handled leadership responsibilities at both NHL and international level. With four alternates in place, the Ducks have the chance to share the day-to-day leadership load while keeping one clear voice at the centre of the group.

What Comes Next

Anaheim opens its 2026-27 season at the Vegas Golden Knights on Oct. 2, the first opportunity for Granlund to wear the ‘C’ in a regular-season game for the Ducks.

IHM Final View

Naming Mikael Granlund captain is an experience-driven choice for a Ducks roster coming off a playoff return. His recent production, long NHL career and international captaincy give Anaheim a credible leadership foundation, with four alternates supporting the new captain.

NHL Projected Lineups 22 September 2026 | IHM

NHL PROJECTED LINEUPS: GAME DAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2026

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 23, 2026, 00:46 CEST

Latest update: All available projected units for today have been added.

Tonight’s IHM projected-lineup report covers 10 NHL games. Each matchup includes the latest starting-goaltender confidence, Power Play 1, Power Play 2 and unavailable-player information captured before game time. Late scratches and warm-up decisions can still change the final lineup.

10Games

12Confirmed goalies

8High-confidence goalies

60Unavailable listings

MATCHUP

BUFFALO SABRES VS COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS

Home

BUFFALO SABRES: PROJECTED UNITS

BUF

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Starting goalieU. Luukkonen

Power Play 1

CT. Thompson
LWZach Benson
RWJack Quinn
LDR. Dahlin
RDJosh Doan

Power Play 2

CRyan McLeod
LWJiri Kulich
RWJosh Norris
LDNoah Ostlund
RDOwen Power

Unavailable

GT. LeinonenOUT
LWJason ZuckerOUT

Away

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: PROJECTED UNITS

CBJ

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Starting goalieCam Talbot

Power Play 1

CC. Coyle
LWC. Garland
RWV. Nichushkin
LDZ. Werenski
RDK. Marchenko

Power Play 2

CSean Monahan
LWKent Johnson
RWM. Olivier
LDD. SeversonOUT
RDI. Provorov

Unavailable

RWRiley BezeauOUT
CL. Del Bel BelluzOUT
DDante FabbroOUT
CA. FantilliOUT
CI. LundestromOUT
DC. MacDonaldOUT
GE. MerzlikinsOUT
DD. SeversonOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 10 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS VS DETROIT RED WINGS

Home

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS: PROJECTED UNITS

PIT

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Starting goalieArturs Silovs

Power Play 1

CS. Crosby
LWR. Rakell
RWE. Malkin
LDBryan Rust
RDE. Karlsson

Power Play 2

LWE. Chinakhov
RWA. Kuzmenko
LDThomas Novak
RDKris Letang

Unavailable

LWJ. BrazeauDTD
GG. D’AigleOUT
RWM. FernstromOUT
CBen KindelOUT
LWV. KoivunenOUT
LWB. LizotteOUT
LWO. OkuliarOUT

Away

DETROIT RED WINGS: PROJECTED UNITS

DET

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Starting goalieJohn Gibson

Power Play 1

CAndrew Copp
LWL. Raymond
RWA. DeBrincat
LDE. Finnie
RDM. Seider

Power Play 2

CM. Rasmussen
LWJ.T. Compher
RWV. Arvidsson
LDMarco Kasper
RDJustin Faulk

Unavailable

CDylan LarkinOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 8 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

CAROLINA HURRICANES VS FLORIDA PANTHERS

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CAROLINA HURRICANES: PROJECTED UNITS

CAR

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Starting goalieBrandon Bussi

Power Play 1

CS. Aho
LWA. Svechnikov
RWJ. Blake
LDN. Ehlers
RDS. Gostisbehere

Power Play 2

CM. Jankowski
LWTaylor Hall
RWL. Stankoven
LDK. Miller
RDSean Walker

Unavailable

RWSeth JarvisOUT
DA. NikishinOUT
LWG. TrikozovOUT

Away

FLORIDA PANTHERS: PROJECTED UNITS

FLA

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Starting goalieAkira Schmid

Power Play 1

CA. Barkov
LWM. Tkachuk
RWSam Reinhart
LDB. Tkachuk
RDSeth Jones

Power Play 2

CA. Lundell
LWE. Luostarinen
RWSam Bennett
LDC. Verhaeghe
RDAaron Ekblad

Unavailable

LWJ. GadjovichIR-LT
LWB. MarchandIR-LT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 5 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

NEW YORK RANGERS VS NEW YORK ISLANDERS

Home

NEW YORK RANGERS: PROJECTED UNITS

NYR

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Starting goalieIgor Shesterkin

Power Play 1

CM. Zibanejad
LWJ.T. Miller
RWA. Lafreniere
LDP. Dorofeyev
RDAdam Fox

Power Play 2

CWill Cuylle
LWE. Tolvanen
RWO. Bjorkstrand
LDG. Perreault
RDSean Durzi

Unavailable

DV. IorioOUT
LWAdam SykoraOUT
CA. ThompsonOUT

Away

NEW YORK ISLANDERS: PROJECTED UNITS

NYI

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Starting goalieIlya Sorokin

Power Play 1

CBo Horvat
LWB. Schenn
RWK. Palmieri
LDC. Ritchie
RDM. Schaefer

Power Play 2

CS. Holmstrom
LWE. Heineman
RWM. Maccelli
LDI. George
RDT. DeAngelo

Unavailable

CM. BarzalOUT
LWQuinn FinleyOUT
LWD. KueflerOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

BOSTON BRUINS VS PHILADELPHIA FLYERS

Home

BOSTON BRUINS: PROJECTED UNITS

BOS

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Starting goalieJeremy Swayman

Power Play 1

CPavel Zacha
LWE. Lindholm
RWD. Pastrnak
LDM. Geekie
RDMason Lohrei

Power Play 2

CF. Minten
LWC. Mittelstadt
RWJJ Peterka
LDH. Lindholm
RDM. Khusnutdinov

Unavailable

DC. McAvoyOUT

Away

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS: PROJECTED UNITS

PHI

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Starting goalieDan Vladar

Power Play 1

CS. Couturier
LWT. Foerster
RWT. Konecny
LDT. Zegras
RDR. Ristolainen

Power Play 2

CP. Martone
LWAlex Bump
RWOwen Tippett
LDJ. Luchanko
RDJ. Drysdale

Unavailable

CD. BarkeyOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 2 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

WINNIPEG JETS VS EDMONTON OILERS

Home

WINNIPEG JETS: PROJECTED UNITS

WPG

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Starting goalieD. DiVincentiis

Power Play 1

CM. Scheifele
LWKyle Connor
RWG. Vilardi
LDJ. Morrissey
RDC. Perfetti

Power Play 2

CB. Yager
LWIsak Rosen
RWViggo Bjorck
LDN. Niederreiter
RDNeal Pionk

Unavailable

DG. BrownOUT
RWWalker DuehrOUT
GC. HellebuyckOUT
DE. SalomonssonOUT

Away

EDMONTON OILERS: PROJECTED UNITS

EDM

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Starting goalieDevon Levi

Power Play 1

CC. McDavid
LWL. Draisaitl
RWZach Hyman
LDR. Nugent-Hopkins
RDE. Bouchard

Power Play 2

CColton Dach
LWV. Podkolzin
RWIsaac Howard
LDM. Ekholm
RDJake Walman

Unavailable

GF. AndersenOUT
DAlec RegulaOUT
CMatt SavoieOUT
CM. JanmarkIR

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 8 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

NASHVILLE PREDATORS VS TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

Home

NASHVILLE PREDATORS: PROJECTED UNITS

NSH

🟡

Starting goalieJuuse Saros

Power Play 1

CR. O’Reilly
LWF. Forsberg
RWJ. Marchessault
LDS. Stamkos
RDRoman Josi

Power Play 2

CMatthew Wood
LWM. Bourque
RWN. Hoglander
LDBrady Skjei
RDRoss Colton

Unavailable

None listed

Away

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING: PROJECTED UNITS

TBL

🟡

Starting goalieDennis Hildeby

Power Play 1

CB. Point
LWJ. Guentzel
RWN. Kucherov
LDB. Hagel
RDJohn Carlson

Power Play 2

CA. Cirelli
LWI. Mikheyev
RWG. Goncalves
LDJ.J. Moser
RDV. Hedman

Unavailable

LWYanni GourdeOUT
LWD. JamesOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 0 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 2 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

CALGARY FLAMES VS VANCOUVER CANUCKS

Home

CALGARY FLAMES: PROJECTED UNITS

CGY

🟢

Starting goalieDustin Wolf

Power Play 1

CMorgan Frost
LWJoel Farabee
RWM. Coronato
LDM. Gridin
RDZayne Parekh

Power Play 2

CRyan Strome
LWConnor Zary
RWM. Tsyplakov
LDY. Sharangovich
RDSimon Nemec

Unavailable

DHenry MewsDTD
LWJ. HuberdeauIR

Away

VANCOUVER CANUCKS: PROJECTED UNITS

VAN

🟡

Starting goalieKevin Lankinen

Power Play 1

CE. Pettersson
LWJake DeBrusk
RWBrock Boeser
LDMarco Rossi
RDFilip Hronek

Power Play 2

CL. Karlsson
LWLiam Ohgren
RWB. Gallagher
LDZeev Buium
RDT. Willander

Unavailable

GT. DemkoOUT
LWM. MacEachernOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 4 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

LOS ANGELES KINGS VS UTAH MAMMOTH

Home

LOS ANGELES KINGS: PROJECTED UNITS

LAK

🟡

Starting goalieDarcy Kuemper

Power Play 1

CQ. Byfield
LWA. Panarin
RWAdrian Kempe
LDM. ZuccarelloOUT
RDB. Clarke

Power Play 2

CErik Haula
LWTrevor Moore
RWA. Turcotte
LDA. Laferriere
RDDrew Doughty

Unavailable

DJakub DvorakOUT
CJan JenikOUT
RWCorey PerryOUT
RWM. ZuccarelloOUT
LWKevin FialaIR

Away

UTAH MAMMOTH: PROJECTED UNITS

UTA

🟢

Starting goalieKarel Vejmelka

Power Play 1

CN. Schmaltz
LWC. Keller
RWD. Guenther
LDM. Sergachev
RDLogan Cooley

Power Play 2

CB. Hayton
LWK. Yamamoto
RWV. Trocheck
LDAnders Lee
RDJohn Marino

Unavailable

None listed

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 5 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

SAN JOSE SHARKS VS VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS

Home

SAN JOSE SHARKS: PROJECTED UNITS

SJS

🟢

Starting goalieYaroslav Askarov

Power Play 1

CM. Celebrini
LWA. Wennberg
RWWill Smith
LDT. Toffoli
RDDmitry Orlov

Power Play 2

CMichael Misa
LWI. Stenberg
RWI. Chernyshov
LDM. Marchment
RDJacob Trouba

Unavailable

CA. GaudetteOUT
GKyle KeyserOUT
CCameron LundOUT
LWQ. MustyOUT
CL. CoutureIR

Away

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS: PROJECTED UNITS

VGK

🟡

Starting goalieCarter Hart

Power Play 1

CJack Eichel
LWTomas Hertl
RWMitch Marner
LDMark Stone
RDS. Theodore

Power Play 2

CW. Karlsson
LWV. Olofsson
RWB. Bowman
LDR. Andersson
RDT. Connelly

Unavailable

DL. CormierOUT
CB. HemmerlingOUT
CR. LavoieOUT
CKai UchaczOUT
DA. PietrangeloIR-LT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 10 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?

They are the latest expected player combinations, starting-goaltender decisions and special-teams units available before puck drop.

What does a green goalie marker mean?

Green means the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed when IceHockeyMan captured the lineup snapshot.

What does a yellow goalie marker mean?

Yellow means High Confidence: the goaltender was listed as expected but can still change before the game.

Why are power-play units included?

PP1 and PP2 show the current special-teams hierarchy and the players expected to receive power-play usage.

Can the lineup change after publication?

Yes. Warm-ups, late scratches and coaching decisions can alter the final lineup before faceoff.

Why does IHM show unavailable players?

The list gives readers immediate context about absences that may affect projected units and special-teams roles.

IHM Status Guide

🟢Green – Confirmed: the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed at the time of the IHM snapshot.

🟡Yellow – High Confidence: the starting goaltender was listed as expected and remains subject to a late change.

Canucks commit to rebuild under Sedins and Johnson

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 22, 2026, 07:19 CEST

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.

NHL Projected Lineups 21 September 2026 | IHM

NHL PROJECTED LINEUPS: GAME DAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2026

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 21, 2026, 21:39 CEST

Latest update: All available projected units for today have been added.

Tonight’s IHM projected-lineup report covers 8 NHL games. Each matchup includes the latest starting-goaltender confidence, Power Play 1, Power Play 2 and unavailable-player information captured before game time. Late scratches and warm-up decisions can still change the final lineup.

8Games

12Confirmed goalies

4High-confidence goalies

41Unavailable listings

MATCHUP

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS VS BUFFALO SABRES

Home

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS: PROJECTED UNITS

PIT

Starting goalieSergei Murashov

Power Play 1

CS. Crosby
LWR. Rakell
RWE. Malkin
LDBryan Rust
RDE. Karlsson

Power Play 2

CBen Kindel
LWE. Chinakhov
RWA. Kuzmenko
LDThomas Novak
RDKris Letang

Unavailable

GG. D’AigleOUT
RWM. FernstromOUT
LWB. LizotteOUT
LWO. OkuliarOUT

Away

BUFFALO SABRES: PROJECTED UNITS

BUF

Starting goalieAlex Lyon

Power Play 1

CT. Thompson
LWZach Benson
RWJack Quinn
LDR. Dahlin
RDJosh Doan

Power Play 2

CRyan McLeod
LWJiri Kulich
RWJosh Norris
LDNoah Ostlund
RDOwen Power

Unavailable

GT. LeinonenOUT
LWJason ZuckerOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS VS DETROIT RED WINGS

Home

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: PROJECTED UNITS

CBJ

Starting goalieJet Greaves

Power Play 1

CC. Coyle
LWC. Garland
RWV. Nichushkin
LDZ. Werenski
RDK. Marchenko

Power Play 2

CSean Monahan
LWKent Johnson
RWM. Olivier
LDD. SeversonOUT
RDI. Provorov

Unavailable

RWRiley BezeauOUT
CA. FantilliOUT
CI. LundestromOUT
DC. MacDonaldOUT
GE. MerzlikinsOUT
DD. SeversonOUT

Away

DETROIT RED WINGS: PROJECTED UNITS

DET

Starting goalieDaniil Tarasov

Power Play 1

CAndrew Copp
LWL. Raymond
RWA. DeBrincat
LDE. Finnie
RDM. Seider

Power Play 2

CM. Rasmussen
LWJ.T. Compher
RWV. Arvidsson
LDMarco Kasper
RDJustin Faulk

Unavailable

CDylan LarkinOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 7 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

NEW JERSEY DEVILS VS NEW YORK RANGERS

Home

NEW JERSEY DEVILS: PROJECTED UNITS

NJD

Starting goalieJake Allen

Power Play 1

CJack Hughes
LWJesper Bratt
RWL. Evangelista
LDN. Hischier
RDLuke Hughes

Power Play 2

CE. Rodrigues
LWTimo Meier
RWA. Mantha
LDA. Gritsyuk
RDD. Hamilton

Unavailable

CN. BjugstadOUT
DJ. KovacevicOUT

Away

NEW YORK RANGERS: PROJECTED UNITS

NYR

Starting goalieDylan Garand

Power Play 1

CM. Zibanejad
LWJ.T. Miller
RWA. Lafreniere
LDP. Dorofeyev
RDAdam Fox

Power Play 2

CWill Cuylle
LWE. Tolvanen
RWO. Bjorkstrand
LDG. Perreault
RDSean Durzi

Unavailable

CA. ThompsonOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 3 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

WASHINGTON CAPITALS VS PHILADELPHIA FLYERS

Home

WASHINGTON CAPITALS: PROJECTED UNITS

WSH

Starting goalieCharlie Lindgren

Power Play 1

CDylan Strome
LWA. OvechkinOUT
RWTom Wilson
LDP. Dubois
RDJ. Chychrun

Power Play 2

CIlya Protas
LWAlex Tuch
RWJ. Sourdif
LDJordan Kyrou
RDCole Hutson

Unavailable

LWA. OvechkinOUT
DR. SandinOUT
CP. ThomasOUT

Away

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS: PROJECTED UNITS

PHI

Starting goalieJoseph Woll

Power Play 1

CS. Couturier
LWT. Foerster
RWT. Konecny
LDT. Zegras
RDR. Ristolainen

Power Play 2

CP. Martone
LWAlex Bump
RWOwen Tippett
LDJ. Luchanko
RDJ. Drysdale

Unavailable

RWN. GrebenkinOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 4 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

MONTREAL CANADIENS VS OTTAWA SENATORS

Home

MONTREAL CANADIENS: PROJECTED UNITS

MTL

Starting goalieSam Montembeault

Power Play 1

CNick Suzuki
LWC. Caufield
RWIvan Demidov
LDJ. Slafkovsky
RDLane Hutson

Power Play 2

CKirby Dach
LWAlex Newhook
RWA. Texier
LDC. Kreider
RDNoah Dobson

Unavailable

DKaiden GuhleOUT

Away

OTTAWA SENATORS: PROJECTED UNITS

OTT

Starting goalieSamuel Ersson

Power Play 1

CTim Stutzle
LWW. Eklund
RWD. Batherson
LDDylan Cozens
RDJ. Sanderson

Power Play 2

CShane Pinto
LWW. FoegeleOUT
RWF. Zetterlund
RDC. Giroux

Unavailable

DT. ChabotOUT
LWW. FoegeleOUT
CRidly GreigOUT
LWK. MacDermidOUT
DArtem ZubOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 0 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

WINNIPEG JETS VS COLORADO AVALANCHE

Home

WINNIPEG JETS: PROJECTED UNITS

WPG

Starting goalieStuart Skinner

Power Play 1

CM. Scheifele
LWKyle Connor
RWG. Vilardi
LDJ. Morrissey
RDC. Perfetti

Power Play 2

CB. Yager
LWIsak Rosen
RWViggo Bjorck
LDN. Niederreiter
RDNeal Pionk

Unavailable

DG. BrownOUT
RWWalker DuehrOUT
GC. HellebuyckOUT
DE. SalomonssonOUT

Away

COLORADO AVALANCHE: PROJECTED UNITS

COL

Starting goalieScott Wedgewood

Power Play 1

CN. MacKinnon
LWNazem Kadri
RWMartin Necas
LDG. Landeskog
RDDevon Toews

Power Play 2

CBrock Nelson
LWA. Lehkonen
RWJ. Schwartz
LDSam Malinski
RDBrent Burns

Unavailable

DCale MakarOUT
GTrent MinerOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS VS MINNESOTA WILD

Home

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS: PROJECTED UNITS

CHI

Starting goalieSpencer Knight

Power Play 1

CA. Frondell
LWT. Bertuzzi
RWPatrick Kane
LDR. Kantserov
RDBowen Byram

Power Play 2

CRyan Donato
LWNick Lardis
RWFrank Nazar
LDOliver Moore
RDSam Rinzel

Unavailable

CC. BedardOUT
DRyan EllisIR

Away

MINNESOTA WILD: PROJECTED UNITS

MIN

Starting goalieCalvin Pickard

Power Play 1

CJ. Eriksson Ek
LWK. Kaprizov
RWRyan Hartman
LDQuinn Hughes
RDMatt Boldy

Power Play 2

CDanila Yurov
LWM. McCarron
RWB. Coleman
LDJ. Spurgeon
RDBrock Faber

Unavailable

GF. GustavssonOUT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 1 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 3 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

MATCHUP

DALLAS STARS VS ST. LOUIS BLUES

Home

DALLAS STARS: PROJECTED UNITS

DAL

Starting goalieCasey DeSmith

Power Play 1

CRoope Hintz
LWJ. Robertson
RWM. Rantanen
LDW. Johnston
RDM. Heiskanen

Power Play 2

CMatt Duchene
LWJamie Benn
RWTyler Seguin
LDEsa Lindell
RDT. Harley

Unavailable

DT. BertucciOUT
CC. BlackwellOUT
CJaxon FuderOUT

Away

ST. LOUIS BLUES: PROJECTED UNITS

STL

Starting goalieJoel Hofer

Power Play 1

CR. Thomas
LWD. Holloway
RWJ. Snuggerud
LDP. Broberg
RDM. McTavish

Power Play 2

CD. Dvorsky
LWP. Buchnevich
RWC. McMichael
LDJ. Neighbours
RDL. Mailloux

Unavailable

DTyler TuckerOUT
RWAdam JechoIR-NR
DTorey KrugIR-LT

IHM Match Readiness Snapshot

Starting-goaltender certainty: 2 of 2 confirmed at snapshot time.
Special-teams view: PP1 and PP2 units listed for both teams.
Unavailable-player watch: 6 total listings across the matchup.
Update risk: projected combinations can change during warm-ups or after a late scratch.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?

They are the latest expected player combinations, starting-goaltender decisions and special-teams units available before puck drop.

What does a green goalie marker mean?

Green means the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed when IceHockeyMan captured the lineup snapshot.

What does a yellow goalie marker mean?

Yellow means High Confidence: the goaltender was listed as expected but can still change before the game.

Why are power-play units included?

PP1 and PP2 show the current special-teams hierarchy and the players expected to receive power-play usage.

Can the lineup change after publication?

Yes. Warm-ups, late scratches and coaching decisions can alter the final lineup before faceoff.

Why does IHM show unavailable players?

The list gives readers immediate context about absences that may affect projected units and special-teams roles.

IHM Status Guide

Green – Confirmed: the starting goaltender was explicitly confirmed at the time of the IHM snapshot.

Yellow – High Confidence: the starting goaltender was listed as expected and remains subject to a late change.

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

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 21, 2026, 20:21 CEST

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.

McDavid leads 2026-27 fantasy hockey mock draft

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 21, 2026, 20:00 CEST

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.

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

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 21, 2026, 19:38 CEST

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.