The Nashville Predators were crowned winners of the offseason after landing Steven Stamkos, Jonat...

<p>The Nashville Predators were crowned winners of the offseason after landing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2870" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2870">Jonathan Marchessault</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4511" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4511">Brady Skjei</a> in free agency. It didn't translate to victories on the ice, though.</p><p>Nashville owns the third-worst record in the NHL ahead of Tuesday's action, nearly a year removed from the second-half heater that pushed the team into the playoffs in 2023-24.</p><p>General manager Barry Trotz reflected on what's gone wrong during an interview with <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6227628/2025/03/25/nashville-predators-barry-trotz-interview/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"One of the things that I learned about, in terms of the legacy players, they do take longer to assimilate and to feel comfortable and to feel like it's more their team," Trotz said, referencing Stamkos and Marchessault. "So I'm hoping those legacy players feel more comfortable in Nashville and assimilate better next year. That's the one take I can honestly say I thought it would be a little quicker and it wasn't."</p><p>Neither Stamkos nor Marchessault have produced as hoped. Stamkos has potted 23 goals after scoring 40 a year ago, while Marchessault has notched 19 goals after tallying 42 a year ago.</p><p>But Trotz doesn't place the blame on them. He also doesn't regret signing them both through at least 2028.</p><p>"If Stammer and Marchy weren't scoring for us, I don't know who would be scoring, we'd have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2919" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2919">Filip Forsberg</a> and maybe <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1350" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1350">Ryan O'Reilly</a>. But you know, I don't regret adding some of that veteran scoring to our group," Trotz said. "In terms of our overall team, I'm just disappointed we didn't have any career years. We had a lot of guys that I would say underperformed. That's a reflection of the whole group."</p><p>Goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4571" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4571">Juuse Saros</a>, who finished top five in Vezina Trophy voting in each of the last three seasons, has also struggled with a career-worst .896 save percentage. Trotz says that's more of a reflection of the defense in front of him.</p><p>"We haven't been consistent enough in our overall team play to give our goaltenders a chance. It was unfair to our goalies this year, defensively, when we weren't good enough."</p><p>The Predators will aim to right the ship in 2025-26. They'll enter the offseason with $18 million in cap space and three first-round picks in the upcoming draft.</p>

NASHVILLE, TN - JUNE 28: Incoming Nashville Predators General Manager Barry Trotz is shown during the first round of the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft, held on June 28, 2023, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Trotz reflects on Predators season: A lot of players 'underperformed'

The Washington Capitals signed defenseman Jakob Chychrun to an eight-year extension with an avera...

<p>The Washington Capitals signed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5601">Jakob Chychrun</a> to an eight-year extension with an average annual value of $9 million, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>The 26-year-old was set to be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. He'll turn 27 on Monday.</p><p>Chychrun's $9-million cap hit will tie him with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2155" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2155">Dougie Hamilton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8539" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8539">Cale Makar</a> as the 10th-highest paid defenseman in the league next season. It will also make him Washington's highest-paid blue-liner, surpassing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1445" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1445">John Carlson</a> ($8 million AAV).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Capitals acquired Chychrun from the Ottawa Senators in the offseason in exchange for blue-liner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2967" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2967">Nick Jensen</a> and a third-round pick. </p><p>Chychrun has thrived in his first season in D.C., establishing a career high with 43 points through 65 games. He's also scored 18 goals, which matches his career high and is third among NHL defensemen this campaign. His 20:56 average time on ice is second on the NHL-leading Capitals behind Carlson (23:38).</p><p>"Jakob is a proven, dynamic defenseman in the prime of his career who has established himself as one of the premier blueliners in the NHL," general manager Chris Patrick said. "His work ethic, skill set, and ability to excel in all situations at both ends of the ice make him a valuable asset to our team. He is a perfect fit with our culture and vision for the future, and we couldn't be more thrilled that he will continue to be part of our organization for the next eight years."</p><p>The Boca Raton, Florida, native was drafted 16th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in 2016 and made his NHL debut at 18. He spent parts of seven seasons in the desert before he was traded to the Senators prior to the 2023 deadline in exchange for a first-round pick and two second-rounders.</p><p>Chychrun has averaged 14 goals and 25 assists per 82 games in his nine-year career, averaging 21:16 per contest in ice time.</p><p>The extension is the latest for a Capitals front office that continues to be proactive. Washington already signed goaltenders <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5525">Charlie Lindgren</a> to extensions earlier this season.</p><p>Their list of remaining pending UFAs includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4791" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4791">Andrew Mangiapane</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1077" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1077">Lars Eller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3873" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3873">Nic Dowd</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4721" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4721">Anthony Beauvillier</a>. The contracts of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1262" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1262">Nicklas Backstrom</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1093" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1093">T.J. Oshie</a> are also set to expire, though both have spent the season on long-term injured reserve.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 22: Jakob Chychrun #6 of the Washington Capitals skates off the ice injured against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Capital One Arena on March 22, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Capitals sign Chychrun to 8-year, $72M extension

Thatcher Demko is back.  The Vancouver Canucks goaltender started Monday against the New Jersey D...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a> is back.</p><p>The Vancouver Canucks goaltender started Monday against the New Jersey Devils after missing the previous 15 games with a lower-body injury. He made 22 saves in the 4-3 shootout victory.</p><p>Forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9827">Nils Hoglander</a>, who were injured in Saturday's loss to the New York Rangers, returned to Vancouver, head coach Rick Tocchet confirmed, according to <a href="https://x.com/patersonjeff/status/1904282512026997134">Nation Network's Jeff Paterson</a>. The Canucks remain on the road for the next four games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Demko was hurt Feb. 8 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Canucks said the issue wasn't related to the knee injury that sidelined him for several months earlier in the campaign.</p><p>Entering Monday, the 29-year-old had been limited to 17 appearances this season, going 6-6-3 with an .891 save percentage. He was the Vezina Trophy runner-up in 2023-24, posting a 35-14-2 record with a .918 save percentage.</p><p>Demko is signed through next season with a $5-million cap hit.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7694" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7694">Kevin Lankinen</a> has handled the bulk of the workload in the Canucks' crease this season. He signed a five-year, $22.5-million extension in February.</p>

VANCOUVER, BC - FEBRUARY 04: Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko (35) watches the play during the second period of an NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, B.C.

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Canucks' Demko returns from injury vs. Devils

Ottawa Senators center Dylan Cozens acknowledges it will be a strange feeling Tuesday when he ret...

<p>Ottawa Senators center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10037">Dylan Cozens</a> acknowledges it will be a strange feeling Tuesday when he returns to KeyBank Center to take on his former team, the Buffalo Sabres, for the first time.</p><p>"I'm excited," Cozens <a href="https://www.nhl.com/senators/video/dylan-cozens-media-march-24-6370476964112">told reporters</a> Monday. "It's going to be a little weird for sure. But I'm going to try not to overthink it. At the end of the day, it's just another game and a big two points that we need."</p><p>The Sabres dealt Cozens, along with a 2026 second-round pick and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9933" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9933">Dennis Gilbert</a>, to the Senators in exchange for fellow center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9904" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9904">Josh Norris</a> and blue-liner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10497" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10497">Jacob Bernard-Docker</a> just before the trade deadline.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cozens has thrived in his new surroundings, tallying three goals, four assists, and 31 hits in eight games with Ottawa. He had managed only 31 points in 61 games with Buffalo before the deal.</p><p>Norris, meanwhile, recorded a goal and an assist in three games with the Sabres before suffering an undisclosed injury.</p><p>Cozens was drafted seventh overall by the Sabres in 2019 and signed a seven-year, $49.7-million extension with the club in 2023.</p><p>"I thought I was going to be there for a long time," Cozens said. "I thought I was going to be a part of the solution. I dreamt every day about turning things around there and being a successful team and what it would be like. Obviously, it didn't work out, and it is what it is. But I'm happy to be here and I'm very happy to be a Senator."</p><p>Sitting last in the Eastern Conference, the Sabres are on their way to extending their NHL-record postseason drought to 14 seasons. The Senators enter Monday occupying the conference's top wild-card spot as they aim to snap a seven-year playoff skid.</p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - MARCH 13: Dylan Cozens #24 of the Ottawa Senators celebrates a goal by teammate Drake Batherson #19 (not pictured) during the second period against the Boston Bruins at Canadian Tire Centre on March 13, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The Ottawa Senators defeated the Boston Bruins 6-3.

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Senators' Cozens: Return to Buffalo will 'be a little weird'

The vibes are mile high in Denver right now.  The Nuggets are contending for their second NBA tit...

<p>The vibes are mile high in Denver right now.</p><p>The Nuggets are contending for their second NBA title in three years. The Broncos have enjoyed a strong offseason building around franchise quarterback Bo Nix. The Rockies ... well, uh, the Rockies play at Coors Field, one of baseball's nicest ballparks.</p><p>Most notably, the Avalanche are peaking at the right time with the Stanley Cup Playoffs only weeks away.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The city's NHL franchise is 9-1-1 in its last 11 games entering Friday. The front office, led by president of hockey operations Joe Sakic and general manager Chris MacFarland, is coming off a busy deadline. The Avalanche added Brock Nelson and Charlie Coyle to fortify their depth down the middle behind NHL leading scorer Nathan MacKinnon, and brought in gritty defender Ryan Lindgren. They also added depth up front in Jimmy Vesey and reunited on the back end with old friend Erik Johnson.</p><p>Those were just the most recent moves. Colorado stunned everyone in January when it traded Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes for a package including Martin Necas and Jack Drury. Necas is thriving in an Avs uniform, with 19 points in 21 games.</p><p>The Avalanche also completely overhauled their goaltending before the midway mark of the season, acquiring Scott Wedgewood in November and Mackenzie Blackwood in December.</p><p>Colorado turned over nearly half its roster through trades alone this season: three new centers, two new wingers, two new defensemen, and both goalies.</p><p>So it's fair to ask: Is there such thing as <em>too much</em> change for an elite team midseason?</p><p>"I think yes and no," Norris Trophy favorite Cale Makar told theScore ahead of Wednesday's 2-1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. "I don't think I've been a part of a team where there's been <em>too much</em> change. Obviously with the turnover we've had this year and how many guys we've brought in, it's different.</p><p>"You've got to find the right guys and bring in the right guys that are going to mesh with everybody and I think (the front office) has done a good job of doing that. Definitely can shake up things and can shake up the team chemistry wise, but I don't think for this team it's done that. I think it's elevated it in every way."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/cropped_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776137/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205439789.jpg?ts=1742473798 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ashley Potts / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Blackwood, who signed a five-year, $26.25-million extension less than a month after joining the Avalanche, agrees there's inherent risk with such a significant overhaul, but management seemed to find the sweet spot.</p><p>"I don't think we have that, but I think it can be possible," the goaltender said. "I think you have to be careful when you're adjusting your roster but I think they've done a good job here of not overdoing it."</p><p>Blackwood and Wedgewood arrived because the goalie tandem to begin the year of Alexandar Georgiev and Justus Annunen simply didn't get the job done, combining for an .873 save percentage before being jettisoned. The new duo's been excellent.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Goalie</th>
<th>Record</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Blackwood</td>
<td>18-8-3</td>
<td>.919</td>
<td>2.17</td>
<td>16.68</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wedgewood</td>
<td>10-4-0</td>
<td>.918</td>
<td>2.02</td>
<td>6.65</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>GSAx = Goals saved above expected.</em></p><p>"They've been incredible," Makar said of the netminders. "It's fun to be able to play with them. To have that consistency and calmness back there, it's great."</p><p>Lindgren's been helping out the goalies since his arrival, and his lunch-pail mentality on the blue line seems to be the perfect complement to the flash of Makar, Devon Toews, and Sam Girard.</p><p>Lindgren's game was trending in the wrong direction with the New York Rangers, but he's been rejuvenated in Colorado. He's been on the ice for only three goals against at even strength in nine games with the Avs. His 1.77 five-on-five expected goals against per 60 minutes is best among Avs defensemen, albeit in a small sample.</p><p>"Such a tough defender," Makar said. "He's so good on both ends of the ice. Defensively he's been an absolute rock for us."</p><p>Blackwood said he appreciates Lindgren's willingness to sacrifice his body to block shots.</p><p>"He's the kind of guy you always like having in front of you," Blackwood added.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/cropped_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776138/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205415649.jpg?ts=1742473893 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bruce Kluckhohn / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Neither Nelson or Coyle have yet to truly get going offensively, combining for two goals and four assists in seven games apiece. That's surely to come, though, especially for Nelson, who broke the dam Thursday with two goals in Colorado's 5-1 win against the Ottawa Senators. Nelson potted 20 goals in 61 games with the New York Islanders this season before the trade, and averaged 36 goals per year the prior three campaigns.</p><p>Coyle, an overqualified third-line center, has already made his presence felt defensively.</p><p>"I like his 200-foot game on both sides of the puck," head coach Jared Bednar said. "He's obviously a trusted defender in all situations - penalty kill, right-handed faceoff guy. He's helped us. That line for us (with Joel Kiviranta and Ross Colton) has a found a way to contribute consistently since he's been here."</p><p>The Avalanche started 0-4-0. They were 13-11-0, sitting outside the playoff picture, before the first notable trade for Wedgewood. Sakic and MacFarland knew changes were needed. While they risked disrupting team chemistry by making as many moves as they did, it appears they were able to find the right pieces of the puzzle.</p><p>"What I really like about the team and some of our additions is we got a little older, a little more experienced. All guys that are well established, good team guys," Bednar said. "They provide a little bit more personality to our room in different ways. That's helped build the energy off the ice, which I think has carried over onto the ice."</p><p>He added: "To be able to revamp our roster on the fly is pretty impressive."</p><p>Bold in-season moves have worked for this franchise before. In 1995-96, the Avs traded away Owen Nolan - who at the time was a 22-year-old, former No. 1 overall pick, with three 30-goal seasons already under his belt - for Sandis Ozolinsh. Like the Rantanen trade, it took major guts, but Ozolinsh ended up being a key cog in their Stanley Cup victory that year. Colorado also massively improved its goaltending that season, trading for future Hall of Famer Patrick Roy.</p><p>In 2000-01, the Avalanche traded away a productive homegrown player in Adam Deadmarsh in a deal for another future Hall of Famer, defenseman Rob Blake. Colorado won the Cup that season, too (and Jack Drury's uncle Chris was on the roster, as well). </p><p>Of course, Sakic captained both the '96 and '01 clubs. He knows a thing or two about finding the right mix.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/cropped_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/w220xh124_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/w320xh180_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/w640xh360_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/w768xh432_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/505592/w1080xh607_GettyImages-306863.jpg?ts=1742475245 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robert Laberge / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's also possible the Avs still have one more addition to come: captain Gabriel Landeskog.</p><p>Landeskog hasn't played since raising the Cup for the Avalanche in 2022, missing each of the last two seasons and all of 2024-25 so far due to a knee injury. But he's been ramping up his rehab, even joining Colorado on its current road trip. There's still no timeline for his return, but if he'd be able to come back for the postseason - even as a fraction of the player he used to be - it would provide a huge boost to a team that's already riding high.</p><p>"He provides a lot to our team, and a lot of it isn't measured on the ice," Bednar said.</p><p>With or without Landeskog, Colorado's journey to glory won't be easy. The Avs are on a collision course in Round 1 with the Dallas Stars, where a legitimate Cup contender will be ousted early. Oddly enough, Sakic and MacFarland's overhaul will likely to be put to the test against Rantanen, who Dallas acquired at the deadline. That'll be fun. </p><p>(Analytics source: <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>)</p>

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Overhauled Avalanche peaking at right time

To say Thursday's meeting between the St. Louis Blues and Vancouver Canucks carries a little extr...

<p>To say Thursday's meeting between the St. Louis Blues and Vancouver Canucks carries a little extra meaning would be an understatement. </p><p>The two clubs are tied for the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference at 75 points. Vancouver is technically ahead of St. Louis with a game in hand, but the Blues hold the next tiebreaker with 34 wins to the Canucks' 32.</p><p>"It's the biggest game of the year," Blues head coach Jim Montgomery said ahead of the contest, per <a href="https://x.com/jprutherford/status/1902744020612178416">The Athletic's Jeremy Rutherford</a>. "We've put ourselves in a situation where we're in sights of Vancouver. They have a little bit of an advantage on us with the game in hand, but tonight is a four-point game. Everyone's excited for puck drop."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The matchup is also the final game of the season between the clubs. St. Louis won the first meeting 4-3 in overtime, and Vancouver won the next 5-2. The rubber match will significantly affect the teams' playoff chances.</p><p>The Blues enter the contest with a 41.2% chance of making the postseason, slightly ahead of the Canucks at 37.2%, per <a href="https://moneypuck.com/">MoneyPuck</a>.</p><p>St. Louis has been playing its best hockey lately, holding a 9-2-2 record since the 4 Nations Face-Off break.</p><p>"It's an opponent that we're battling with in the standings and a good challenge for us," Blues forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9206" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9206">Jake Neighbours</a> said. "We've been playing so well since the break, and I'm really excited for the opportunity to play someone that we're competing with."</p><p>Vancouver is coming off a 6-2 victory against the West-leading Winnipeg Jets and has won three of its last four games.</p><p>Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet spoke about the importance of puck management in the high-stakes tilt, saying his club will need to make the Blues earn everything they get to be successful.</p><p>"They're a hot team, so we've got to make sure we take care of the puck," he <a href="https://x.com/Canucks/status/1902778413951099238">said</a>. "We know they're a real good rush team, and they have a lot of swagger and confidence right now. When you play teams like this, when there's a lot of swagger, you got to make sure you don't give them any freebies. I think that's something we've got to really dial in tonight: no freebie goals. We've got to play smart but aggressive."</p><p>Puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET in St. Louis.</p>

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - JANUARY 27: Dylan Holloway #81 of the St. Louis Blues controls the puck against Filip Hronek #17 of the Vancouver Canucks in the third period at Enterprise Center on January 27, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri.

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Blues, Canucks ready for 'biggest game of the year'

The Dallas Stars may be without top defenseman Miro Heiskanen to begin the postseason.  Head coac...

<p>The Dallas Stars may be without top defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6612" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6612">Miro Heiskanen</a> to begin the postseason.</p><p>Head coach Pete DeBoer <a href="https://www.nhl.com/stars/video/ana-dal-pregame-pete-deboer-6370196744112">said</a> Tuesday it's "a realistic possibility" that Heiskanen wouldn't be able to play for the duration of the opening round of the playoffs.</p><p>Heiskanen suffered a knee injury Jan. 28 from an awkward collision with Vegas Golden Knights captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> and hasn't suited up since. He underwent surgery Feb. 4 and was given a month-to-month timeline.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>DeBoer added that Heiskanen is in the gym everyday but isn't skating yet.</p><p>Heiskanen posted 25 points in 50 games before his injury and was logging a team-high 25:10 per game. He finished in the top 10 in Norris Trophy voting in each of the past two seasons.</p><p>Dallas could get some reinforcements in time for the playoffs. DeBoer said forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1693" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1693">Tyler Seguin</a>, who's been out since undergoing hip surgery in December, has been on the ice and is progressing well.</p><p>"Skating regularly, looking good," DeBoer said. "On all projections to be back by the end of the year."</p><p>Seguin collected nine goals and 11 assists in 19 games before his injury.</p><p>The Stars are on a collision course for a Round 1 matchup with the Colorado Avalanche. Dallas currently sits second in the Central Division, 11 points back of the Winnipeg Jets for top spot. The red-hot Avs sit third, four points up on the fourth-place Minnesota Wild.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 12: Dallas Stars Defenceman Miro Heiskanen (4) skates during first period National Hockey League action between the Dallas Stars and Ottawa Senators on January 12, 2025, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Stars' Heiskanen may not be ready for start of playoffs

The 2024-25 campaign hasn't been an easy one for Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson, but ...

<p>The 2024-25 campaign hasn't been an easy one for Vancouver Canucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a>, but general manager Patrik Allvin is proud of the way his top center took ownership of his struggles earlier this month.</p><p>"I give him credit," Allvin told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6212690/2025/03/18/canucks-trade-deadline-offseason/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>. "When he addressed the media a couple of weeks ago and took ownership of it, I think that was a big step for him."</p><p>Pettersson came under fire in late February when he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3225607" href="https://thescore.com/news/3225607">brushed off</a> his slump and said it was "more annoying dealing with the media." He eventually walked back those comments, saying he was caught in the moment and the media isn't a factor in his poor play.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old also clashed with former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a> earlier this season, leading to the latter being traded to the New York Rangers.</p><p>Pettersson has managed just 42 points in 61 games this season - a sharp decline in production after tallying a career-high 102 in 2022-23 and 89 a year ago. However, he's improved his game lately, recording four goals and three assists in his last seven appearances since snapping a 15-game goal drought.</p><p>"This league is a humbling league," Allvin said. "Every day is an opportunity to get better. When you figure that out, you see the results. Lately, you can tell that he's been working on his game, and the results are coming.</p><p>"We all know there's a whole other level of his talent level to reach, but I think he understands what he needs to be in order to get back there."</p><p>Pettersson is in the first season of an eight-year, $92.8-million contract. His $11.6-million cap hit makes him Vancouver's highest-paid player.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - MARCH 9: Elias Pettersson #40 of the Vancouver Canucks skates with the puck during the third period of their NHL game against the Dallas Stars at Rogers Arena on March 9, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Canucks GM: Pettersson owning his struggles 'a big step'

The Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators will face each other in a pair of games in Sweden...

<p>The Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators will face each other in a pair of games in Sweden next season as part of the NHL's Global Series, the league announced Tuesday.</p><p>The games will take place Nov. 14 and 16 at Avicii Arena in Stockholm.</p><p>Pittsburgh's roster features two prominent Swedes in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2075" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2075">Rickard Rakell</a>, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2919" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2919">Filip Forsberg</a> is the headliner for Nashville. All three players donned the Tre Kronor at the 4 Nations Face-Off.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I come from a small town, so I never got the chance to see any professional hockey until I was probably 16 or 17," Karlsson said. "I think it's a great thing that the NHL does right now.</p><p>"Obviously, we have a lot of fans back home in Sweden, lot of young kids who start playing hockey because of the NHL, and it's easier to follow now, too. I think a lot of people do, through the internet and all that. So, it's nice to be able to give them a chance to see it live."</p><p>Rakell is particularly excited about the chance to have his grandmother in attendance.</p><p>"It's very exciting, just the chance to play in my home country and play in front of family and friends and people growing up, different coaches that (don't) really have the chance to come and see me play over here," Rakell said. "And my grandma, just for her to have the chance to see me play, it'll be a lot of fun."</p><p>The 2024 Global Series featured contests in Finland, Czechia, and Germany. The NHL last played games in Sweden in 2023.</p><p>The Penguins last played overseas in 2008 in Sweden. The Predators went to Switzerland and Czechia in 2022.</p>

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 15: (L-R) Rickard Rakell #67 and Erik Karlsson #65 of Team Sweden skate by the team bench to celebrate with teammates after Karlsson scored a goal during the second period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between Finland and Sweden at Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Penguins, Predators to play 2 games in Stockholm next season

Gabriel Landeskog is making positive strides in his rehab from a knee injury that's kept him out ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2034" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2034">Gabriel Landeskog</a> is making positive strides in his rehab from a knee injury that's kept him out of action for nearly three seasons.</p><p>The Colorado Avalanche captain will join the team for a three-game road trip beginning Wednesday in Toronto in order to continue skating with the club, head coach Jared Bednar said, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/gabriel-landeskog-making-strides-skates-with-colorado?utm_source=nhldotcom&amp;utm_medium=social">NHL.com's Ryan Boulding</a>.</p><p>"He's looking good; I thought he looked great in practice today," Bednar said. "Obviously, just like sort of the flow-and-go noncontact stuff. Certainly, (it's) nice to have him out there."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Landeskog participated in <a href="https://x.com/jessemontano_/status/1901682919682585019">drills</a> and stayed on the ice for the duration of Monday's practice - the latter being a first during his rehab, according to <a href="https://x.com/CHNFlynn/status/1901689350343299131">Colorado Hockey Now's Colleen Flynn</a>.</p><p>The 32-year-old hasn't played since winning the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 2022. He underwent a knee cartilage transplant in May 2023 - a procedure no NHL player has successfully returned from. It was his third knee surgery in 15 months.</p><p>"It's really hard to say (when he'll play again), but things are going great and it's certainly nice to have him back on the ice with our team," Bednar added. "Just the energy and sort of attitude that he brings to the ice, I think, helps everybody."</p><p>General manager Chris MacFarland <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3232335" href="https://thescore.com/news/3232335">said</a> earlier this month that there's still no timeline for the captain's return. Landeskog <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3233686" href="https://thescore.com/news/3233686">added</a> that he's decided to see the rehab through, no matter how long it takes. </p><p>Landeskog tallied 30 goals and 29 assists in 51 games in 2021-22. He added 22 more points in 20 postseason contests.</p><p>He's in the fourth campaign of the eight-year, $56-million contract he signed in 2021.</p>

DENVER, CO - JUNE 24: Colorado Avalanche left wing Gabriel Landeskog (92) looks on during the Stanley Cup Finals game 5 between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on June 24, 2022.

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Landeskog joining Avalanche on road trip, still no timeline for return

The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to court Mitch Marner if the Toronto Maple Leafs winger hits...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to court <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> if the Toronto Maple Leafs winger hits free agency this summer, <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/video/domino-s-that-s-hockey-lebrun-on-marner-market-tulsky-and-potential-explosive-july-1st%7E3097600">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a> reports.</p><p>The Maple Leafs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3236850" href="https://thescore.com/news/3236850">reportedly</a> approached Marner about waiving his no-movement clause to join the Carolina Hurricanes in a deadline deal that would've brought <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a> to the Maple Leafs. Marner declined to move, reiterating that he wants to stay in Toronto. However, his camp has been unwilling to negotiate a contract extension in-season despite the Maple Leafs' wishes to do so in recent months.</p><p>Rantanen was ultimately traded to the Dallas Stars where he signed an eight-year, $96-million extension. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10707" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10707">Logan Stankoven</a> and draft picks were sent the other way.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Carolina will have ample cap flexibility this summer in part because Stankoven is still on his entry-level contract through next season. The Hurricanes project to have $36 million to work with, though <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/607" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/607">Brent Burns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1906" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1906">Dmitry Orlov</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a> are among the club's biggest pending unrestricted free agents.</p><p>That cap space could allow Carolina to go big-game hunting this summer, and Marner headlines a list of pending UFAs that also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3995" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3995">Nikolaj Ehlers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/284" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/284">Matt Duchene</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5601">Jakob Chychrun</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6354" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock Boeser</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3946" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3946">Aaron Ekblad</a>, and fellow Maple Leaf <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a>.</p><p>Marner, 27, has a team-leading 80 points in 65 games for Toronto this season. He's averaged 104 points per 82 games since the start of 2021-22, though he's never hit the century mark in a full season. Marner has also received down-ballot Selke Trophy votes for his strong defensive game, finishing as high as third in 2022-23.</p><p>The Maple Leafs drafted the Thornhill, Ontario, native fourth overall in 2015. He ranks fourth in franchise history in assists (504) and fifth in points (719) through 641 career games.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 13: Mitch Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs looks on against the Florida Panthers at Scotiabank Arena on March 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Hurricanes expected to pursue Marner if he hits free agency

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk is week-to-week with a lower-body injury, head coach Scott Ar...

<p>Winnipeg Jets defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a> is week-to-week with a lower-body injury, head coach Scott Arniel announced Friday, per <a href="https://x.com/JohnLuTSNWpg/status/1900581413465845880">TSN's John Lu</a>.</p><p>Arniel added that Pionk has been playing through the injury for an unspecified period.</p><p>The 29-year-old ranks second among Jets defensemen in average time on ice (22:09) and points (37), trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trade-deadline pickup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1200" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1200">Luke Schenn</a> will take Pionk's place on the second pair with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9989" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9989">Dylan Samberg</a>.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 6: Neal Pionk #4 of the Winnipeg Jets passes the puck against against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center on March 6, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Jets defeated the Flyers 4-1.

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Jets' Pionk week-to-week with nagging injury

The Ottawa Charge announced Friday that they placed goaltender Emerance Maschmeyer on long-term i...

<p>The Ottawa Charge announced Friday that they placed goaltender <a href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15833">Emerance Maschmeyer</a> on long-term injured reserve.</p><p>Maschmeyer suffered a lower-body injury during Tuesday's win over the Minnesota Frost. However, Ottawa general manager Mike Hirshfeld <a href="https://x.com/gmottawa/status/1900529557486068120">said</a> the team is cautiously optimistic she'll return before the end of the season.</p><p>The 30-year-old has posted a .913 save percentage and 2.58 goals-against average in 18 appearances (tied for most in the PWHL) this campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Charge backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15830" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15830">Gwyneth Philips</a>, who owns a .908 save percentage and 2.29 goals-against average in seven games this season, figures to handle the bulk of the workload with Maschmeyer sidelined.</p><p>Ottawa also signed netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15752" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15752">Lucy Morgan</a> from Minnesota's reserve list in a corresponding move. She appeared in one contest for the Frost this season, stopping 29 of 34 shots.</p>

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - MARCH 11: Emily Clark #26 and Mannon McMahon #18 look on as Emerance Maschmeyer #38 of the Ottawa Charge is helped to her feet by medical staff and Gabbie Hughes #17 after sustaining an injury against the Minnesota Frost late in the third period of their PWHL game at The Arena at TD Place on March 11, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario.

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Charge place Maschmeyer on LTIR

Calgary Flames forward Connor Zary was suspended two games for elbowing Vancouver Canucks defense...

<p>Calgary Flames forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9212" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9212">Connor Zary</a> was suspended two games for elbowing Vancouver Canucks defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/14963" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/14963">Elias Pettersson</a>, the NHL's Department of Player Safety <a href="https://www.nhl.com/video/topic/player-safety/zary-suspended-two">announced</a> Thursday.</p><p>Zary delivered a high, retaliatory elbow to Pettersson's head Wednesday after the Canucks defenseman laid out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1182" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1182">Nazem Kadri</a> with an open-ice hit moments earlier. He received a two-minute minor for elbowing on the play.</p><p>This marks the first suspension of Zary's two-year career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pettersson played one more shift in the first period before exiting for good.</p>

CALGARY, AB - MARCH 12: MacKenzie Weegar #52 piles on top of teammate Conor Zary #47 of the Calgary Flames during a scuffle against the Vancouver Canucks at Scotiabank Saddledome on March 12, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

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Flames' Zary suspended 2 games for elbowing Canucks' Elias Pettersson

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Max Domi isn't concerned about the race for the Atlantic Division tit...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3007" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3007">Max Domi</a> isn't concerned about the race for the Atlantic Division title ahead of Thursday's matchup with the Florida Panthers.</p><p>"That shit doesn't matter to us," Domi said. "We're just trying to beat every team we play against, and every game is just as important."</p><p>The Maple Leafs enter Thursday two points back of the Panthers for first in the division with one game in hand. The Tampa Bay Lightning are also in the mix, sitting five points back of the Panthers with a game in hand.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A division title for the Maple Leafs would likely mean avoiding both Florida-based teams in Round 1. One of the Panthers or Lightning have represented the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Final five years in a row.</p><p>Maple Leafs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1319" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1319">Steven Lorentz</a>, who was part of the Panthers' 2024 Cup-winning team, was willing to acknowledge the stakes of Thursday's tilt.</p><p>"We're preparing for a playoff-like game. You can say that about a lot of games, but it's no secret that both teams are battling for that first-place spot," Lorentz said.</p><p>He added, "We're excited for the opportunity to get at these guys. There's no friends out there."</p><p>The Panthers beat the Maple Leafs 5-1 in the teams' lone meeting this season. Including Thursday, Toronto and Florida will play each other three more times.</p><p>The Maple Leafs have made the playoffs in each of the last eight seasons - tied for the longest active streak in the league - but their only division title in that span came when they won the North Division in the pandemic-shortened 2021 campaign.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 25: Toronto Maple Leafs center Max Domi (11) before a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators on January 25, 2025, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Maple Leafs' Domi: Winning Atlantic Division 'doesn't matter to us'

New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton isn't expected to be ready to return from his lower-...

<p>New Jersey Devils defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2155" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2155">Dougie Hamilton</a> isn't expected to be ready to return from his lower-body injury for the start of the postseason, general manager Tom Fitzgerald said on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGJCuBtKlYU&amp;ab_channel=simmerpuck">"Krackin' Canuckleheads" podcast</a> Wednesday.</p><p>"It'll go into the second round," Fitzgerald said of Hamilton's injury.</p><p>He added: "I gotta go back and do the math. It happened this last week. There's a possibility. We're not planning on it, how's that? This is what we have."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hamilton suffered the ailment March 4 and hasn't played since. He was ruled out for "an extended time" on Friday.</p><p>The Devils are also without defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4707" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4707">Jonas Siegenthaler</a> for at least the rest of the regular season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack Hughes</a> has been ruled out for the regular season and playoffs.</p><p>Hamilton leads all Devils defensemen with 40 points in 63 games this season. He ranks third among the team's blue-liners in average ice time (19:48). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a> has taken over his duties quarterbacking the top power-play unit.</p><p>The Devils added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2541" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2541">Brian Dumoulin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5605" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5605">Dennis Cholowski</a> to help shore up the blue line ahead of the trade deadline. New Jersey also has top defense prospects <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12712" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12712">Simon Nemec</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12713" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12713">Seamus Casey</a> as insurance.</p><p>New Jersey enters Thursday third in the Metropolitan Division with a 92.7% chance of making the playoffs, per <a href="https://moneypuck.com/">MoneyPuck</a>.</p><p>Hamilton, 31, is in the fourth season of a seven-year, $63-million contract he signed as a free agent with the Devils in 2021.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - FEBRUARY 26: Dougie Hamilton #7 of the New Jersey Devils skates against Sam Malinski #70 of the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena on February 26, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Devils GM not expecting Hamilton back for start of playoffs

Welcome to the fifth edition of theScore's 2024-25 Norris Trophy Rankings. We publish new ranking...

<p>Welcome to the fifth edition of theScore's 2024-25 Norris Trophy Rankings. We publish new rankings once a month throughout the campaign.</p><p><em>xGF% = five-on-five expected goals for percentage</em></p><h3>5. Rasmus Dahlin, Sabres</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/cropped_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761429/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189227030.jpg?ts=1734631110 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bill Wippert / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>24:20</td>
<td>53.17</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Another tremendous season from Dahlin is flying under the radar because of the Sabres' ineptitude. He's producing at a near point-per-game clip despite having little help around him, and his defensive metrics are stellar. If Dahlin hadn't missed eight games earlier in the season, he'd likely be solidified at No. 4 on this list.</p><p>At just 24 years old, Dahlin has plenty of runway - plus the ability - to win a Norris down the line. But team success would certainly go a long way to help him get there. On the bright side, Dahlin remains <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3239516" href="https://thescore.com/news/3239516">committed</a> to being part of the solution in Buffalo.</p><h3>4. Thomas Harley, Stars</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/cropped_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773478/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202790110.jpg?ts=1741149373 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Glenn James / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>62</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>23:06</td>
<td>54.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It turns out the Stars have two No. 1-caliber defensemen. Harley has greatly elevated his game since Miro Heiskanen went down with a knee injury, proving he's more than capable of being the alpha. In 14 games without Heiskanen, Harley has posted five goals and 11 assists while averaging 25:18 per contest.</p><p>Harley shined as a late addition to Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. It's possible that performing on the big stage served as a springboard to stardom. The 23-year-old is coming into his own at the perfect time for the Stars.</p><h3>3. Quinn Hughes, Canucks</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/cropped_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768787/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196500202.jpg?ts=1738632534 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Derek Cain / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>47</td>
<td>25:13</td>
<td>55.02</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The best ability is availability, and Hughes has simply been unavailable lately. On a per-game basis, he's arguably been the best defenseman in the league, but injuries have limited him to four appearances since the start of February. He still deserves to be on this list, just no longer in the top spot.</p><h3>2. Zach Werenski, Blue Jackets</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/cropped_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769790/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198171702.jpg?ts=1739202465 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous: 3</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>63</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>26:56</td>
<td>51.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Werenski's Norris case continues to grow the longer the Blue Jackets stay in the playoff hunt. If Columbus earns a postseason berth after entering the campaign as one of the league's biggest underdogs, it may be impossible to deny Werenski the honor.</p><p>The 27-year-old leads all NHL defensemen in time on ice, even-strength points, and shots on goal. He also leads his team in points - one of two blue-liners in the league doing so. Although highly impressive, he still comes up a hair short of No. 1 on our list.</p><h3>1. Cale Makar, Avalanche</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/cropped_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/773842/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203105923.jpg?ts=1741324373 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Martin / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>66</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>51</td>
<td>25:39</td>
<td>56.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Makar has taken his game to another level of late, racking up a staggering 17 points in 11 games since the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3209294" href="https://thescore.com/news/3209294">last edition</a> of these rankings. Combine that hot streak with superior defensive play this season and Makar is deserving of the top spot on our list.</p><p>His five-on-five expected goals against per 60 minutes of 2.29 is a notch better than Werenski's 2.77 this season. Makar has also produced 1.0 defensive goals above replacement, while Werenski owns a minus-0.5 mark.</p><p>Werenski will likely receive more Hart Trophy votes than Makar since MVP is rooted in value provided to the team. But for the Norris Trophy, which is simply given to the best all-around defenseman, Makar holds a slight edge.</p><p><strong>Keep an eye on:</strong></p><ul>
<li><strong>Josh Morrissey</strong></li>
<li><strong>Victor Hedman</strong></li>
<li><strong>MacKenzie Weegar</strong></li>
<li><strong>Jake Sanderson</strong></li>
<li><strong>Jackson LaCombe</strong></li>
</ul><p>(Analytics source: <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>)</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: Thomas Harley #55 of the Dallas Stars celebrates a goal against the Los Angeles Kings in the second period at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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<p>The Boston Bruins may have been sellers at the deadline, but that doesn't mean the players in the room are ready to throw in the towel on the season.</p><p>Boston has reeled off back-to-back victories since the deadline, taking down two Atlantic Division powerhouses - the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers.</p><p>"We're never going to give up," defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9218" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9218">Mason Lohrei</a> said following the 3-2 win over Florida on Tuesday, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/boston-bruins-have-spark-from-comeback-win-against-florida-panthers">NHL.com's Amalie Benjamin</a>. "We know where we're at. We're just going to keep fighting. You saw it tonight."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Boston dealt several key players, including captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a>, center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2474" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2474">Charlie Coyle</a>, wingers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5614" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5614">Trent Frederic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9941" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9941">Justin Brazeau</a>, and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4643" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4643">Brandon Carlo</a>.</p><p>The Bruins are also currently without key blue-liners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2961" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2961">Hampus Lindholm</a> due to injuries.</p><p>"The guys show up. All the guys since Friday have been showing up, ready to work, ready to work their (butts) off and play for the crest," defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3174" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3174">Nikita Zadorov</a> said. "There's no quit in this team, and we're going to keep pushing until the end. We're just trying to build the momentum we haven't had the whole year. I think you get a couple wins, you start feeling great, you feel confident inside the group. I think that's a good thing.</p><p>"Something's brewing, for sure."</p><p>The Bruins enter Wednesday's slate just two points back of a playoff spot in the jumbled Eastern Conference wild-card race.</p>

Boston, MA - March 11: Boston Bruins C Jakub Lauko and D Mason Lohrei celebrate the game-tying goal in the third period.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/587" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/587">Jonathan Quick</a> isn't ready to hang up his pads just yet.</p><p>Quick agreed to a one-year extension with the New York Rangers on Wednesday, the team announced.</p><p>The contract contains a $1.55-million cap hit, a source told the <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1899830289192411644">New York Post's Mollie Walker</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Quick has posted a .896 save percentage and a 3.14 goals-against average in 21 games with the Rangers this season. He's stopped minus-0.86 goals above expected, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.</p><p>Quick was much more effective in his first campaign with the Rangers, recording a .911 save percentage and 12.82 goals saved above expected a year ago.</p><p>The 39-year-old notched the 63rd shutout of his career March 2, putting him one away from tying Rangers legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/827">Henrik Lundqvist</a> for a share of 17th on the all-time list. Quick's 402 victories rank 14th in NHL history, one shy of matching Hall of Famer Grant Fuhr.</p><p>A native of Milford, Connecticut, Quick won a pair of Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy during his 16-year run with the Los Angeles Kings.</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - FEBRUARY 08: Jonathan Quick #32 of the New York Rangers seen in action during the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on February 08, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

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<p>The PWHL has suspended Minnesota Frost forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15757" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15757">Britta Curl-Salemme</a> one game for elbowing Toronto Frost defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15852" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15852">Megan Carter</a> on Sunday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VaZsTxp-01I?si=H281zzOcKh0tChlB" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Curl-Salemme received a two-minute minor for elbowing on the play. This is her second suspension of the season after a one-game ban for high-sticking in January.</p><p>Additionally, Sceptres defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15845" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15845">Renata Fast</a> was issued a $250 fine for cross-checking Frost forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15749" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15749">Kendall Coyne Schofield</a> in the same game.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 9: Britta Curl-Salemme #77 of Minnesota Frost is called for a penalty against the Toronto Sceptres during the second period at Coca-Cola Coliseum on March 9, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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