New York Islanders forward Bo Horvat knows his team isn't doing enough to give general manager Lo...

<p>New York Islanders forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a> knows his team isn't doing enough to give general manager Lou Lamoriello a convincing reason to keep the band together leading up to the March 7 trade deadline. </p><p>"We have to start winning hockey games if we want everybody to stay, right?" he said after his team's 5-3 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday, per <a href="https://x.com/RTaub_/status/1880096163619303756">News 12 New York's Rob Taub</a>. "It's on us at the end of the day to do what we can in here, on the ice and in the room, to gather this team and push for a playoff spot.</p><p>"I know it's not going to be easy, but I mean, if there's any group that's gonna do it, we're pretty relentless in here. I definitely have confidence that we can pull through."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Thursday's defeat was New York's second straight loss after the team rattled off three consecutive wins against the Boston Bruins, Vegas Golden Knights, and Utah Hockey Club.</p><p>The Islanders now sit in last place in the Metropolitan Division with a 17-20-7 record. They're eight points behind the Bruins for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, but New York has two games in hand.</p><p>Though the Isles haven't made any moves yet, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2524" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2524">Brock Nelson</a> is emerging as a top trade target for contenders in need of an effective center. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3190723" href="https://thescore.com/news/3190723">Dallas Stars</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182753" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182753">Minnesota Wild</a> reportedly have their eyes on the veteran forward, who can become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.</p><p>Lamoriello expressed his confidence in his team last Thursday and didn't seem to have much of an appetite for moving Nelson and fellow pending UFA <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1756">Kyle Palmieri</a> at the time.</p><p>"First of all, it's not even a thought in my mind right now," Lamoriello said, per <a href="https://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/islanders-lou-lamoriello-vttlnpxb">Newsday's Andrew Gross</a>. "Where we are in the season and where we are in the standings where everything is in reach, that's the focus. The focus is on who we are here right now and not hypothetically, if this, if that. I'm just not from that school."</p><p>He added: "It's all in our hands. I feel good about this team. I feel good about this coaching staff. I’ll take full responsibility for both groups in where we stand."</p><p>Next up for the Islanders is a showing against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET. </p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - JANUARY 02: Bo Horvat #14 of the New York Islanders skates during warm up prior to the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 2, 2025 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York

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Horvat: Isles have to start winning 'if we want everybody to stay'

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin scored on the 179th different goaltender of his career, br...

<p>Washington Capitals star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> scored on the 179th different goaltender of his career, breaking his tie with Jaromir Jagr for the most in NHL history. </p><p>Ovechkin beat Ottawa Senators netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9225" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9225">Leevi Merilainen</a> in overtime to seal Thursday's 1-0 victory and accomplish the feat. Merilainen was playing in his 10th career NHL game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">874.<br><br>ALEX OVECHKIN IS 21 GOALS AWAY FROM WAYNE GRETZKY'S RECORD! <a href="https://t.co/v6IE9z0FWX">pic.twitter.com/v6IE9z0FWX</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1880082301943448000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The goal was the 874th of Ovechkin's career in his 1,455th contest, putting him 21 tallies away from passing Wayne Gretzky's all-time record.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ovechkin has done most of his damage against longtime Pittsburgh Penguins rival <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1010" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1010">Marc-Andre Fleury</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/CapitalsPR/status/1880082691959451812">Capitals PR.</a></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Goalie</th>
<th>Goals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Marc-Andre Fleury</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Henrik Lundqvist</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Kari Lehtonen</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Carey Price</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Cam Ward</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Ryan Miller</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Ondrej Pavelec</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Sergei Bobrovsky</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Devan Dubnyk</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Brian Elliott</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Andrei Vasilevskiy</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Ovechkin has scored 37 goals in 58 matchups against the Senators, trailing only Jagr's 44 tallies in 79 outings for the most by a single opponent.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 10: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals smiles against the Montreal Canadiens during the second period at Capital One Arena on January 10, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Ovechkin scores on 179th different goalie to break Jagr's record

Jakob Chychrun admits he's expecting a "mixed" reception Thursday when he faces the Ottawa Senato...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5601">Jakob Chychrun</a> admits he's expecting a "mixed" reception Thursday when he faces the Ottawa Senators as a member of the Washington Capitals for the first time.</p><p>"I didn't trade myself," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/capitals/video/jakob-chychrun-january-16-6367194497112">said</a> when asked what went wrong during his time in Ottawa. "I think a lot of people were talking about the fit, obviously they got the two (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4794">Thomas Chabot</a>) on the left side. I just think maybe the fit wasn't as good as it is here."</p><p>The rearguard added, "I'm sure there's gonna be some people who are not happy with me for whatever reason and be booing. It is what it is, you're not gonna please everybody. I think, at times, fans think they really understand everybody's situation in this league and that's just not the case. ... I'll be happy to come back and play in front of them."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chychrun spent one full season in Canada's capital after being acquired by the Senators from the Arizona Coyotes prior to the 2023 trade deadline.</p><p>Ottawa failed to take a step in 2023-24 and Chychrun's name resurfaced in trade rumors throughout the season, but he wasn't dealt until the summer. The Senators sent him to the Capitals in July in exchange for defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2967" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2967">Nick Jensen</a> and a 2026 third-round pick.</p><p>Chychrun, who has family in Ottawa, made it clear he has "great memories" with the franchise.</p><p>"Not everybody gets to play in a spot where they're that close to home," he said. "It was a very special time for my family and I. I'm glad I got to experience that with them." </p><p>Chychrun is currently thriving with the Capitals. He boasts 12 goals and 30 points in 39 outings entering Thursday's action and is on pace to surpass his previous career high of 41 points - set last season with the Senators and in 2020-21 with the Coyotes.</p><p>The 26-year-old can become an unrestricted free agent after the season upon the expiry of his six-year, $27.6-million deal. </p><p>Chychrun addressed his contract status Wednesday during an appearance on <a href="https://x.com/granthpaulsen/status/1879706094131667139">106.7 The Fan</a>, saying, "we'll see how things go." </p><p>"It's been a blast," he said. "The contract stuff, I mean obviously for the most part, I'm not the one on the phone doing that stuff, so I just try to focus on preparing each night and just helping this club win hockey games. </p><p>"As long as we're doing that, I know all the other stuff will take care of itself. We have loved our time here so far. Hopefully, all that other stuff gets taken care of soon."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 22: Jakob Chychrun #6 of the Washington Capitals looks on during the first period of a game against the Los Angeles Kings at Capital One Arena on December 22, 2024 in Washington, D.C.

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Chychrun expects mixed reception in Ottawa: 'I didn't trade myself'

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid passed Jari Kurri for sole possession of second place on t...

<p>Edmonton Oilers captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> passed Jari Kurri for sole possession of second place on the franchise's all-time points list during Wednesday's 5-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild.</p><p>McDavid accomplished the feat with his second goal and third point of the outing to accumulate the 1,044th point of his career.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Connor's got ✌️<br><br>He just makes it look soooo easy 😮‍💨<br><br>🇺🇸: <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL_On_TNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHL_On_TNT</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsonMax?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SportsonMax</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/4TuyIATi3T">https://t.co/4TuyIATi3T</a><br>🇨🇦: <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sportsnet</a> or stream on Sportsnet+ ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF">https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF</a> <a href="https://t.co/hLGwC7dMHA">pic.twitter.com/hLGwC7dMHA</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1879744748036014197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Here's how the Oilers' record book stands now:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Points</th>
<th>GP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Wayne Gretzky</td>
<td>1669</td>
<td>696</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>1044</td>
<td>686</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jari Kurri</td>
<td>1043</td>
<td>754</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Mark Messier</td>
<td>1034</td>
<td>851</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Leon Draisaitl</td>
<td>914</td>
<td>762</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>McDavid is 626 points away from passing Wayne Gretzky for the No. 1 spot.</p><p>"Quite a remarkable feat for him to go up the scoring list as quickly as he has and within an organization that has had so many significant players," Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch <a href="https://x.com/EdmontonOilers/status/1879762148311847003">said</a> of McDavid's accomplishment after the game. "I said I wouldn't be surprised anymore just because he's surprised you so often over these years, but it's a nice feat for him, and the guys here are very proud of him."</p><p>The 28-year-old has racked up 62 points in 41 contests this season and is on pace for his fifth consecutive 100-point campaign.</p><p>McDavid became the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127526" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127526">fourth-fastest player</a> in NHL history to hit the 1,000-point milestone in his 659th career game in November, trailing only Mike Bossy (656), Mario Lemieux (513), and Gretzky (424).</p><p>The Ontario native already boasts a full trophy cabinet through his first nine seasons in the NHL, complete with five Art Ross Trophies, four Ted Lindsay Awards, three Hart Trophies, one Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy, and one Conn Smythe Trophy. </p><p> </p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - JANUARY 13: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers in action during the game against the Los Angeles Kings at Rogers Place on January 13, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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McDavid passes Kurri for 2nd on Oilers' all-time points list

Bruins president Cam Neely isn't interested in blowing up his team, but he's also realistic about...

<p>Bruins president Cam Neely isn't interested in blowing up his team, but he's also realistic about where Boston stands past the midway mark of the 2024-25 season with the March 7 trade deadline on the horizon. </p><p>"Right now, I don't really have that appetite (for a rebuild or retool) but like I told our (general manager) and the staff - we have our meetings coming up here in a little bit - we do have to prepare for two paths," the executive <a href="https://www.nhl.com/bruins/video/black-and-gold-gala-cam-neely-6367150007112">said</a> Wednesday. "Obviously, the one path is that we're buyers and we feel good about our team, but the other path is, maybe, somewhat of a retool. But we're not focusing on that right now, we're focussing on trying to get our team to be in a better place."</p><p>He added: "We still feel like we've got a playoff team here, and we certainly don't want to jeopardize getting out of the playoffs because we made some moves that may be good for the future but not good for the present."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Bruins entered Wednesday's action holding the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with a 22-19-5 record, but their footing in the playoff race is precarious. They have the same number of points (49) as the Lightning, who sit in third place in the Atlantic Division, but Tampa Bay has four games in hand.</p><p>Meanwhile, there are plenty of other teams in the wild-card hunt who have played fewer contests than Boston:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WC1</td>
<td>Boston Bruins</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WC2</td>
<td>Columbus Blue Jackets</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Ottawa Senators</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Montreal Canadiens</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Detroit Red Wings</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Philadelphia Flyers</td>
<td>45</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Pittsburgh Penguins</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>New York Rangers</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>New York Islanders</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>41</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's been a dramatic campaign for the Bruins: They've dealt with a coaching change and criticism of their leadership group, not to mention <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a>'s public contract negotiations before the season even started.</p><p>"This year's been a little frustrating because we honestly felt, coming out of the offseason, that we had a better team than what we've showed on the ice," Neely said. "Maybe that's a product of us overvaluing what we have, or just the start that we had was not expected, to be honest with you."</p><p>He also understands that Boston fans have gotten used to a certain level of success after making the playoffs in each of the last eight seasons.</p><p>"We're aware of the expectations here, and we try to meet and exceed those every year," Neely continued. "Right now, it's a year that we're not really accustomed to."</p><p>Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs backed Neely and general manager Don Sweeney on Wednesday.</p><p>"I have faith that they'll make the right decisions," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/bruins/video/black-and-gold-gala-charlie-jacobs-6367147042112">said</a>. "I don't have the playbook for that. I have faith that they will make those decisions, though."</p><p>Boston has won its past two games after dropping six straight contests. The team will take on the Ottawa Senators on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET. </p><p> </p>

Boston, MA - September 30: Boston Bruins President Cam Neely spoke to reporters during the team's annual start-of-season press conference at TD Garden.

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Bruins' Neely: No appetite for retool, but need to 'prepare for 2 paths'

Andrew Copp knows his Detroit Red Wings are in for a challenge on their upcoming four-game road t...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4496" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4496">Andrew Copp</a> knows his Detroit Red Wings are in for a challenge on their upcoming four-game road trip as they look to stay in the playoff mix.</p><p>"This is a huge test, four good teams, teams that we haven't really faced yet this year, teams that are above us in the standings," the forward <a href="https://www.nhl.com/redwings/video/andrew-copp-and-todd-mclellan-practice-media-6367137749112">said</a> Wednesday. "So this is gonna be a real good measuring-stick road trip for us."</p><p>The Red Wings take on the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday and Saturday, respectively, before heading to Dallas to face the Stars on Sunday. The tour concludes with a matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Panthers, Lightning, and Stars are all contenders, while the Flyers are fighting with Detroit for one of the wild-card spots in the Eastern Conference. </p><p>Here's how the race looked entering Wednesday's two-game slate:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WC1</td>
<td>Boston Bruins</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WC2</td>
<td>Columbus Blue Jackets</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Ottawa Senators</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Montreal Canadiens</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Detroit Red Wings</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Philadelphia Flyers</td>
<td>45</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Pittsburgh Penguins</td>
<td>46</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>New York Rangers</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>New York Islanders</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Buffalo Sabres</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Though the Red Wings aren't interested in watching the standings, Copp said they're aware of how tight the Eastern Conference is right now. Detroit forced itself into the playoff conversation by going 7-2-0 since Todd McLellan took over behind the bench in late December.</p><p>The new head coach is focused on ensuring the Red Wings aren't getting too ahead of themselves as they try to climb the standings.</p><p>"What I don't want them to do is get caught up in a seven-game win streak or a four-game losing streak. I want them to live in the moment and just worry about that. There's so much noise that goes on," McLellan said. "It can be hard if you get caught up in all of that stuff. It can take you down or it could put you too far up. Put the equipment on and let's deal with things between minute one and minute 60 and we're fine."</p><p>The Red Wings won seven straight contests before Tuesday's 6-3 loss to the San Jose Sharks, but Copp thinks the defeat can benefit them.</p><p>"You find a good feeling in the locker room, you forget how hard it is to get seven in a row, a little bit. ... Things were coming easy to us, so you forget how hard it is and how hard you have to fight to keep a roll like that going," he said. "Obviously we got a nice reminder of that last night.</p><p>"We can either use it as a point to springboard and as a teaching moment, or we can use it as a point in the season where we had something going but we couldn't get it going again. So hopefully, it's the former."</p>

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 9: Andrew Copp #18 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his third period goal with teammates on the bench during an NHL game against the Buffalo Sabres on December 9, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

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Red Wings, Copp bracing for 'huge test' on upcoming trip

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice hasn't been pleased with his team's lack of discipline i...

<p>Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice hasn't been pleased with his team's lack of discipline in back-to-back losses.</p><p>"We've taken 12 minor penalties in the last two games, and I don't think in either of those games anybody needed to wear equipment," Maurice told reporters after Monday's 4-3 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. "They're not heavy games. They weren't mean, they weren't angry, they're just, I don't even know what the hell they are.</p><p>"But with (defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3946" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3946">Aaron Ekblad</a>) out of the lineup, we can't be in the box 12 times in two games. We just can't. We've given them four goals and that's the difference in both of them." </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Panthers had a 2-0 lead over the Flyers after the first period, with their first goal coming from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a> on the penalty kill. However, Philadelphia scored twice on the power play in the final frame to knot the game up at 3-3. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11203" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11203">Noah Cates</a> completed the comeback with less than six minutes remaining in regulation.</p><p>Florida was assessed 14 penalty minutes in the loss and handed its Eastern Conference rivals five chances on the man advantage.</p><p>Saturday's 4-3 overtime loss to the Boston Bruins was a similar story. The Panthers again took 14 penalty minutes, and the Bruins converted on two of their five opportunities, including the overtime winner.</p><p>Ekblad has missed the past two contests with an undisclosed issue, a major blow to Florida's PK. The rearguard ranks second on the team in shorthanded ice time per game (2:34) this season, trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9416" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9416">Gustav Forsling</a>.</p><p>The Panthers also had trouble staying out of the box Wednesday against Utah, but they killed off three of their four penalties to win 4-1.</p><p>"If we get to 18 (penalties) in three games, we deserve what we get," Maurice said. "I don't understand half the calls, but that's OK. I don't get paid to understand that, I'm still trying to figure out my team."</p><p>Florida will be tasked with holding off the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.</p>

SUNRISE, FL - JANUARY 11: Florida Panther Head Coach Paul Maurice looks up to the scoreboard during the NHL game between the Boston Bruins and the Florida Panthers on Saturday January 11, 2025 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla.

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Maurice rues penalties in back-to-back losses: 'Not heavy games'

Flames forward Martin Pospisil was ejected for boarding Chicago Blackhawks veteran Taylor Hall du...

<p>Flames forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11086" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11086">Martin Pospisil</a> was ejected for boarding Chicago Blackhawks veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> during Calgary's 5-2 victory Monday.</p><p>The incident occurred midway through the second period. Pospisil received a five-minute major and game misconduct.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Martin Pospisil hits Taylor Hall on the numbers. <br><br>🎥: Amazon Prime | NHL<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Flames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Flames</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Blackhawks?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Blackhawks</a> <a href="https://t.co/jrXQYegm5c">pic.twitter.com/jrXQYegm5c</a></p>— Robert Munnich (@RingOfFireCGY) <a href="https://twitter.com/RingOfFireCGY/status/1878985843492462854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Blackhawks phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> scored on the ensuing power play, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9843" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9843">Yegor Sharangovich</a> responded with a shorthanded marker for the Flames two minutes later.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The NHL suspended Pospisil for three games for boarding Seattle Kraken defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4581" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4581">Vince Dunn</a> in March. He was also ejected for cross-checking Boston Bruins veteran<a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100"> Brad Marchand</a> in the face in February and tossed from a game in April for elbowing Winnipeg Jets rearguard<a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161"> Josh Morrissey</a>.</p><p>The 25-year-old entered Monday's matchup with 10 goals, 36 points, and 160 penalty minutes in 104 career games.</p>

CALGARY, AB - JANUARY 2: Martin Pospisil #76 of the Calgary Flames prepares to face off against the Utah Hockey Club at Scotiabank Saddledome on January 2, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

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Flames' Pospisil ejected for boarding Blackhawks' Hall

Xander Schauffele withdrew from this week's The American Express, the PGA TOUR announced Monday. ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1213" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1213">Xander Schauffele</a> withdrew from this week's The American Express, the PGA TOUR <a href="https://x.com/PGATOURComms/status/1878925094912958844">announced</a> Monday.</p><p>The TOUR didn't disclose a reason for the World No. 2's absence. Philip Knowles will replace Schauffele in the tournament's field.</p><p>Schauffele played in The Sentry in early January and opened his 2025 season with a T-30 finish. He also participated in the TGL's long-awaited debut last week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time major winner isn't the only high-profile golfer sidelined for The American Express in California. <a href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1540">Scottie Scheffler</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181765" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181765">announced</a> that he'd miss the event after cutting his hand on broken glass while preparing dinner on Christmas Day.</p><p> </p>

KAPALUA, HAWAII - JANUARY 03: Xander Schauffele of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the second round of The Sentry 2025 at Plantation Course at Kapalua Golf Club on January 03, 2025 in Kapalua, Hawaii.

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Schauffele withdraws from The American Express

John Tortorella knows veteran rearguard Rasmus Ristolainen can be a lightning rod for criticism, ...

<p>John Tortorella knows veteran rearguard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3173" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3173">Rasmus Ristolainen</a> can be a lightning rod for criticism, and the Philadelphia Flyers coach isn't having it.</p><p>"You (media) guys are gonna hate him," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/flyers/video/1-13-pregame-tortorella-6367035676112">said</a> Monday. "You guys write all this shit. Well, I shouldn't say hate. That's not the proper word to use in today's world. I just felt he's been under a microscope as far as since I've been here. ... My first year (in 2022-23), it was a tough year for me with him, but since then, he's been a pretty consistent player. </p><p>"A big, strong, right-handed defenseman. I think once he started moving his legs consistently, he's turned into a really good player for us. And not just of late, he's been a pretty good player for us for quite a while."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Though Ristolainen's 11 points in 43 games this campaign don't jump off the page, he's on pace for 21 points. That total would be his highest in four seasons as a Flyer and most since he recorded 33 points with the Buffalo Sabres in 2019-20.</p><p>The 30-year-old's ice time has also jumped to 20:31 per game after averaging 16:41 in 2023-24 and 19:01 in 2022-23.</p><p>Ristolainen's underlying numbers have been subpar in the City of Brotherly Love, but the Flyers have posted a negative goal differential in each of the past five seasons. Philadelphia dictated 56.2% of the expected goals with Ristolainen off the bench at five-on-five last season and is recording 50.2% this campaign, according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/playerreport.php?fromseason=20242025&amp;thruseason=20242025&amp;playerid=8477499&amp;sit=5v5&amp;stype=2">Natural Stat Trick</a>.</p><p>Last December, Ristolainen <a href="https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/nhl/philadelphia-flyers/flyers-coach-john-tortorella-dont-be-so-quick-to-run-rasmus-ristolainen-out-of-town/553030/">said</a> he wished Tortorella had been his coach when he entered the league as an 18-year-old. When reminded of the moment Monday, the hard-nosed bench boss joked, "Ooh, be careful what you wish for."</p><p>"The thing I like about Risto is there's a little bit of stubbornness to him, but I also think he cares," Tortorella said. "I think he has taken some of the coaching and tried to get better.</p><p>"Sometimes when you have a veteran guy and some new things are brought in, or maybe you pushed along the way, the stubbornness takes over, and you don't want to listen to it. I think he's done a good job of that."</p><p>Ristolainen is under contract through the 2026-27 season, and his $5.1-million cap hit is the second-highest on the Flyers' blue line. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3141457" href="https://thescore.com/news/3141457">Reports emerged</a> in late November indicating he was garnering interest from other NHL clubs.</p><p>"All the things I read, his contract's an albatross, I think we have him on a pretty good contract right now, the way it's gone in this league as far as contracts with defensemen," Tortorella said. "He's been good for us. I worry about, with him out of our lineup, it'd be a big hole for us." </p><p>Ristolainen will represent Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 19: Rasmus Ristolainen #55 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on during a stoppage in play against the Los Angeles Kings at the Wells Fargo Center on December 19, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Torts backs Ristolainen: 'Under a microscope' since I've been here

Ottawa Senators' rookie goalie Leevi Merilainen was all business after picking up two wins in as ...

<p>Ottawa Senators' rookie goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9225" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9225">Leevi Merilainen</a> was all business after picking up two wins in as many days. </p><p>"Just work," he told TSN's Claire Hanna on Sunday when asked what his past 28 hours have been like. "It's my work. This is my job. I have to do this, so just happy to be here."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Leevi Meriläinen earns back-to-back victories, and gives a great interview. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoSensGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoSensGo</a> <br><br>The 22 year old now owns 4 wins in 5 starts, a .913 SV% and 3.23 goals saved above expected. <a href="https://t.co/TxE4ldHQGw">pic.twitter.com/TxE4ldHQGw</a></p>— Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) <a href="https://twitter.com/EverydaySens/status/1878604744874491918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Merilainen helped the Senators stymie the Penguins with a 29-save shutout Saturday in Pittsburgh, and he was between the pipes against the red-hot Dallas Stars a day later in Ottawa.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 22-year-old was solid against the Western Conference foes, turning aside 24 of 26 shots en route to a 3-2 victory that snapped the Stars' seven-game winning streak.</p><p>Merilainen said he learned he was also starting the second of back-to-back games on the plane ride back from Pittsburgh, but he wasn't rattled by the news.</p><p>"Of course you feel it in the body, but I'm used to this," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/senators/news/senators-win-second-straight-with-victory-over-stars">said</a> of his recent workload. "I did this a lot in Europe. Not too different." </p><p>Merilainen now owns a .913 save percentage, 2.34 goals against average, and 4-2-0 record since being called up in mid-December to fill in for the then-injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2978" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2978">Anton Forsberg</a>. However, the Finn's role on the team only grew after usual starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> suffered a back injury Dec. 22.</p><p>Sunday's showing against the Stars was Merilainen's first appearance at the Canadian Tire Centre. </p><p>"Well of course the fans were on our side, so that was fun," he said when asked if playing on home ice felt any different to him. </p><p>Senators fans also gave him a rousing cheer when he was announced as the starting netminder, which didn't go unnoticed by Merilainen. </p><p>"That was special," he said. "That was super fun." </p><p>Just like the fans, Ottawa forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9189" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9189">Tim Stutzle</a> has been impressed by Merilainen's performance so far. </p><p>"(He's) really calm," he said. "Gives us confidence when he's back there. Obviously made some huge saves against Pittsburgh, too, some huge saves where he didn't see the puck. He's been playing great for us, so it's awesome, and I'm happy for him."</p><p>Merilainen made his NHL debut with a two-game showing in April 2023, but he didn't see any action last season. He recorded his first big-league win Dec. 21 against the Vancouver Canucks.</p><p>Senators general manager Steve Staios addressed the media before Sunday's game and announced that Ullmark is expected to return sooner rather than later, but he still doesn't have a set timeline, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/senators-ullmark-back-skating-could-be-back-sooner-rather-than-later/">Sportsnet</a>. The executive added that he's comfortable with their goaltending depth and doesn't feel the need to make an addition.</p><p>Ottawa will take on the New York Islanders at 7:30 p.m. ET Tuesday.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 12: Ottawa Senators Goalie Leevi Merilainen (1) during three stars 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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Sens' Merilainen focused after back-to-back wins: 'This is my job'

The Seattle Kraken were behind the eight-ball after allowing four goals in the first eight minute...

<p>The Seattle Kraken were behind the eight-ball after allowing four goals in the first eight minutes of Sunday's 6-2 loss to the red-hot Detroit Red Wings.</p><p>"We didn't come out to play," a frustrated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10775" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10775">Matty Beniers</a> <a href="https://x.com/PiperShawTV/status/1878583060092043638">told</a> broadcaster Piper Shaw postgame. "Weren't ready from the puck drop and you can't do that - especially at this time of year. We're at game No. (44), we're making systematic errors. We know how to play, we're not in the right spots. What can you do, you need to learn from it, move on, but that just can't happen."</p><p>Red Wings forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12734" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12734">Marco Kasper</a> drew first blood three minutes in, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5559" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5559">J.T. Compher</a> doubled the lead just 11 seconds later. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5625" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5625">Alex DeBrincat</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick Kane</a> capped off the flurry of four goals in a 4:31 span. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kraken netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1801" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1801">Philipp Grubauer</a> was pulled after he was beat three times on four shots, giving him an abysmal .250 save percentage on the night.</p><p>The damage didn't stop in the game's opening 20 minutes, though. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4529" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4529">Erik Gustafsson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4541" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4541">Dylan Larkin</a> added another two goals in the middle frame to put the Red Wings up 6-0. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3045">Oliver Bjorkstrand</a> and Beniers eventually got Seattle on the board, but it was too little, too late. </p><p>"I think sometimes we just, we're getting away from our game, we're getting away from what makes us have success," Beniers said. "It doesn't work, it doesn't work at all. Teams take advantage of it, they put in four on us in the first six shifts of the game. It's very, very difficult to come back from four in the first and get that momentum back." </p><p>The Kraken have now lost 10 of their previous 13 games. They mustered two goals or fewer in nine of those defeats.</p><p>Seattle is eight points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference, and the latter has two games in hand.</p><p>The Kraken missed the playoffs by 17 points last season and held a 19-16-9 record and .534 points percentage through the first 44 games of the campaign. Seattle owns an 18-23-3 record and .443 clip in 2024-25.</p><p>"We need to talk as a team," Beniers said when asked about what needs to happen to turn things around. "There's a lot of things that we need to fix. Every guy in that room, including myself, just needs to be better, needs to be more accountable for themselves, their plays, and executing. That's what it comes down to." </p><p>Next up for the Kraken is a date with the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET. </p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 06: Matty Beniers #10 of the Seattle Kraken looks on during the first period of a game against the New Jersey Devils at Climate Pledge Arena on January 06, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Beniers irked by slumping Kraken's 'systematic errors' vs. Red Wings

Alex Ovechkin did more than just get closer to Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record Saturday nig...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> did more than just get closer to Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record Saturday night.</p><p>The Washington Capitals sniper scored an empty-netter in a 4-1 win over the Nashville Predators for his 20th tally of 2024-25, becoming the second player in NHL history to reach that mark in 20 consecutive campaigns. Gordie Howe accomplished the feat in 22 straight seasons.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">22 TO GO! 🚨<br><br>Alex Ovechkin has his 20th goal of the season and is 22 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record! <a href="https://t.co/FFKtQXF4Ih">pic.twitter.com/FFKtQXF4Ih</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1878287560528523513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ron Francis is the only other player to record twenty 20-goal seasons, though he didn't do so consecutively. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ovechkin scored his 20th goal in his 27th game of the campaign, tying the fourth-fastest time he's required to hit the benchmark.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Season</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>Date</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>2009-10</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>Dec. 7 (2009)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>2013-14</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>Nov. 23 (2013)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>2021-22</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>Dec. 4 (2021)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>2007-08</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>Dec. 1 (2007)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>2018-19</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>Dec. 4 (2018)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>2024-25</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>Jan. 11 (2025)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-7</td>
<td>2017-18</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>Dec. 4 (2017)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-7</td>
<td>2019-20</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>Nov. 30 (2019)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>2006-07</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>Dec. 15 (2006)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>2008-09</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>Dec. 18 (2008)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>2022-23</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>Dec. 13 (2022)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The longest it's taken the Russian to reach the milestone was last season, when he did it in his 64th game.</p><p>The marker was Ovechkin's 873rd in his career, meaning he's now 22 goals away from passing Wayne Gretzky's record.</p><p>The 39-year-old missed 16 games with a broken leg earlier this season, but he's scored five goals in nine contests since his return to the lineup.</p><p>Ovechkin broke Mike Gartner's record for the most 30-goal seasons with his 18th in 2023-24. The Capitals captain also owns the all-time title for most 40-goal campaigns (13) and needs one more 50-goal season (9) to set a new NHL record.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 4: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals is named the second star of the game after a victory against the New York Rangers at Capital One Arena on January 4, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

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Ovechkin joins Howe with 20 straight 20-goal seasons

Vancouver head coach Rick Tocchet was annoyed by the missed chances that plagued the Canucks duri...

<p>Vancouver head coach Rick Tocchet was annoyed by the missed chances that plagued the Canucks during their 2-0 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday night.</p><p>"I think we had 25 missed shots. ... You gotta hit the net," he lamented <a href="https://x.com/Canucks/status/1877917223869665583">postgame</a>. "That's the frustrating part, we had a lot of O-zone time, but we're just missing opportunities. You guys look at the shot clock, I look at missed opportunities. Two-on-one, we try to pass. </p><p>"These are crucial things. You gotta throw pucks at the net, hit the net with people going. Little frustrated with the overpassing, or missing the net."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Canucks had 65 shot attempts at all strengths compared with the Hurricanes' 51, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20242025&amp;game=20666&amp;view=limited">Natural Stat Trick</a>. However, Vancouver fired just 14 shots at netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9437" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9437">Dustin Tokarski</a>, who was playing his fifth game of the season after not seeing any NHL action in 2023-24. Only six Canucks attempts were considered high-danger chances, and they went 0-for-3 on the man advantage.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> acknowledged he could have done a better job of producing offense.</p><p>"I think we had many looks that we didn't hit the net," he <a href="https://x.com/Canucks/status/1877915787077308453">said</a>. "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6354" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock (Boeser</a>) made a great pass to me on the power play and I tried to pick the corner instead of making sure I hit the net. Maybe I don't score but maybe create a rebound. Yeah, small details."</p><p>He added, "They're a good team, made it hard for us. We're a good team too. Whatever we're going through now, we'll figure it out." </p><p>The Canucks now rank 31st in the league in shots per game (25.4) and 20th in goals per contest (2.93). They've lost four in a row and six of their past seven matchups while getting outscored 23-13. Vancouver's 2-1 overtime defeat to the Washington Capitals on Wednesday was its first time eclipsing 30 shots in a single game since the beginning of December.</p><p>"You gotta stick with it," Tocchet said. "You've gotta work on your game. You gotta keep with it. Confidence, you can't buy at a store. You gotta continue to work at it, you gotta put pucks on net, power play's gotta come up with a goal for us. Bottom line." </p><p>Pettersson and goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a> returned from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3184036" href="https://thescore.com/news/3184036">injury absences</a> against Carolina. The former didn't record a shot in 20:27 of ice time, while the latter allowed two goals on 20 shots.</p><p>It's a quick turnaround on the road for the Canucks, who will face the Toronto Maple Leafs at 7 p.m. ET Saturday.</p><p> </p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - JANUARY 06: (L-R) Assistant coach Adam Foote and head coach Rick Tocchet of the Vancouver Canucks handle bench duties during the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on January 6, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Vancouver Canucks 5-4 in overtime.

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Tocchet vexed by missed chances vs. Hurricanes: 'You gotta hit the net'

Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson slotted back into the lineup for Friday night's 2-0 lo...

<p>Vancouver Canucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> slotted back into the lineup for Friday night's 2-0 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes.</p><p>He was activated off injured reserve prior to the contest.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a>, meanwhile, returned between the pipes after sitting out three games with back spasms. He served as the backup during Wednesday's 2-1 overtime loss to the Washington Capitals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pettersson missed six games with an undisclosed injury. Vancouver went 1-2-3 in his absence. The Canucks were also without captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> for four of those contests, but the star defenseman returned during Monday's 5-4 overtime loss to the Montreal Canadiens.</p><p>It is unclear how Pettersson got hurt, but he departed the Canucks' 4-3 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Dec. 23 after just one shift in the third period. He scored two goals in a 44-second span earlier in the contest.</p><p>Pettersson was given a one-week recovery timeline on Dec. 29. </p><p>The 26-year-old ranked sixth on Vancouver with 10 goals and fifth with 28 points in 34 games entering Friday's action. </p><p>Pettersson signed an eight-year extension with an $11.6-million cap hit in March, but his first season of the deal isn't going according to plan.</p><p>Reports emerged in December detailing a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3167746" href="https://thescore.com/news/3167746">supposed rift</a> between the Swede and teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a>, and both players' names have appeared in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3180023" href="https://thescore.com/news/3180023">trade rumors</a>. </p><p>Pettersson <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181533" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181533">acknowledged</a> Monday that he hadn't met the Canucks' expectations through the first half of the campaign.</p><p>Vancouver occupies the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference with an 18-13-10 record.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - DECEMBER 12: Elias Pettersson #40 of the Vancouver Canucks looks on during the first period of their NHL game against the Florida Panthers at Rogers Arena on December 12, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Pettersson returns from 6-game absence, Demko starts in loss to Canes 

The Ottawa Senators' first home game in more than three weeks did not go according to plan.  Otta...

<p>The Ottawa Senators' first home game in more than three weeks did not go according to plan.</p><p>Ottawa fell 4-0 to the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday night, and Senators fans responded accordingly by booing their team off the ice.</p><p>"It just wasn't good," defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4794">Thomas Chabot</a> <a href="https://www.nhl.com/senators/video/thomas-chabot-postgame-media-vs-buf-6366894589112">said</a> postgame. "There's no way around it. Nobody can hide behind anything. It's just from top to bottom, the whole team, just not good enough. Simple as that."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He added, "Came back home and we were excited for the game, and we just didn't show up."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Boo birds here in Ottawa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sens</a> <a href="https://t.co/3cF50IB9ky">pic.twitter.com/3cF50IB9ky</a></p>— Alex Adams (@alexadamsBTP_) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexadamsBTP_/status/1877546107863015613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Senators head coach Travis Green understood where the boo birds were coming from.</p><p>"Fans want us to win," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/senators/video/travis-green-postgame-media-vs-buf-6366894190112">said</a>. "You never like to hear boos, but they're passionate. They pay good money to come to the game and they want us to win. </p><p>"But again, when you look at the game - like really step away and look at it - I don't really believe it was like a 4-0 team where another team was all over us. It was far from that. But there were some plays that you can't make and teams are gonna make you pay the price." </p><p>It was a particularly difficult night for Chabot, who was on the ice for all four goals. He committed a turnover at the offensive blue line prior to the first of <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9186">Jack Quinn</a>'s two goals in the opening frame, while the Sabres' last tally of the contest went off Chabot and into his own net.</p><p>Ottawa outshot Buffalo 35-21 but ultimately couldn't solve Sabres goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7745" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7745">Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen</a>. The loss continued a concerning trend for the Senators, who have mustered just four goals in their last four games - all losses.</p><p>"You're gonna get frustrated," Green said. "It's hard not to. If you don't get frustrated, you're probably in the wrong business. Guys are upset, guys are frustrated when they don't win whether they play well or not. It's how you handle that frustration and how you reset."</p><p>Ottawa has been without star netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> since he left the team's 3-1 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Dec. 22 with a back injury.</p><p>The Senators are 1-4-1 with the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner on the shelf and currently sit in fifth place of the Atlantic Division with a 19-18-3 record.</p><p>Ottawa will take on the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET. </p>

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - JANUARY 09: Bowen Byram #4, Henri Jokiharju #10,Tage Thompson #72 and Jason Zucker #17 of the Buffalo Sabres celebrate with teammate Dylan Cozens #24 after Cozens scored a goal in the second period against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on January 09, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario.

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Senators' Chabot: 'Nobody can hide' after being booed off ice

The March 7 trade deadline may be two months away, but Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowma...

<p>The March 7 trade deadline may be two months away, but Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman is already making calls about upgrading his blue line, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported during Thursday's segment of "<a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/insider-trading-the-latest-trade-talk-two-months-out-from-deadline~3059994">Insider Trading</a>."</p><p>"They had their pro scouting meetings this week," LeBrun said. "They came out of it very much so with the idea of casting a wide net in their search of the D market. ... It's very preliminary, but they do want to upgrade." </p><p>He added, "They're going into this trade season with an open mind, a long list."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Oilers' defense corps underwent major changes last summer after their run to the Stanley Cup Final.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Departures</th>
<th>Arrivals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Philip Broberg</td>
<td>Josh Brown</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cody Ceci</td>
<td>Ty Emberson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vincent Desharnais</td>
<td>Travis Dermott</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Only one of those arrivals, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10886" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10886">Emberson</a>, is a regular fixture in the Oilers' lineup. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3221" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3221">Brown</a> has only played in five games with the big club so far this season, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4717" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4717">Dermott</a> got into 10 contests before he was claimed off waivers by the Minnesota Wild in December.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2858" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2858">Ceci</a> was a staple in the top four next to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3124" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3124">Darnell Nurse</a> during his three seasons in Edmonton, and the 23-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8601">Broberg</a> showed promise during the team's playoff run. The 6-foot-7 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10907" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10907">Desharnais</a> played in 78 regular-season games for the Oilers last campaign.</p><p>Despite the changes, the Oilers are solid defensively this season and entering Thursday's action eighth in goals against per game (2.73). Their most-utilized pairings are as follows:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>LD</th>
<th>RD</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mattias Ekholm (22:47 ATOI)</td>
<td>Evan Bouchard (23:31)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darnell Nurse (21:40)</td>
<td>Troy Stecher (14:12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brett Kulak (20:09)</td>
<td>Ty Emberson (14:56)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Brown replaced Stecher in the lineup the past two games.</p><p>The Oilers' blue line hasn't had to contend with too many injuries, but LeBrun noted the team's brass is aware that trend may not continue. </p><p>"There's a recognition within the Oilers' front office that they've been relatively healthy on their back end and maybe they don't have enough depth in case injuries start to pile up in the second half," he said. </p><p>Edmonton came into Thursday in second place in the Pacific Division with a 25-12-3 record.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - NOVEMBER 14: Mattias Ekholm #14 and Darnell Nurse #25 have a conversation during a stoppage in play in the the game against the Nashville Predators at Rogers Place on November 14, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Report: Oilers' Bowman making preliminary calls to upgrade blue line

The Chicago Blackhawks' 3-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday was a statement game...

<p>The Chicago Blackhawks' 3-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday was a statement game for veteran goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2204" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2204">Petr Mrazek</a>.</p><p>"I was just battling since I returned (from injury). ... I knew I can make some saves," he said postgame, per the <a href="https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/1877194807749013510">Chicago Sun-Times' Ben Pope</a>. "I knew there was going to be a game that I can prove I can still play the game."</p><p>Mrazek enjoyed an admirable start to the 2024-25 campaign with a .905 save percentage and 2.86 goals-against average in 19 appearances while backstopping a basement-dwelling Blackhawks team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old then missed six games in December after suffering a groin injury. Mrazek struggled mightily in his first three games back:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Opponent</th>
<th>Result</th>
<th>SA</th>
<th>GA</th>
<th>xGA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Flames (Dec. 21)</td>
<td>6-4 L</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>2.19</td>
<td>.828</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sabres (Dec. 27)</td>
<td>6-2 L (pulled after 1st)</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>0.96</td>
<td>.636</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Blues (Dec. 31)</td>
<td>6-2 L</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>3.71</td>
<td>.786</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Mrazek was outstanding Wednesday, though, turning aside 35 of 36 shots while preventing 2.16 goals above expected at all strengths, according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20242025&amp;game=20651&amp;view=limited">Natural Stat Trick</a>.</p><p>"Obviously, he made some big saves there, some really hard saves, right? On some really good players," interim head coach Anders Sorensen said, per the <a href="https://x.com/_phil_thompson/status/1877212150680150410">Chicago Tribune's Phillip Thompson</a>.</p><p>Colorado dominated everywhere but the scoresheet, dictating 55.5% of the shot attempts, 61.8% of the scoring chances, and 64.2% of the expected goals while holding a 13-8 edge over the Blackhawks in high-danger opportunities.</p><p>The performance marked Mrazek's first win since Nov. 27. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> said Mrazek was "unbelievable" against the Avalanche and didn't let his netminder shoulder all the blame for his difficult stretch. </p><p>"It's hard to say he's had a rough go when we were giving up a lot of grade-A scoring chances," Bedard said, according to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfxoaQmQzkU">CHGO Sports</a>. "Today, we gave some up as well, but he was there to bail us out. That's what he does. He's been so good for us.</p><p>"Him and (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11231" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11231">Arvid Soderblom</a>) have both been the backbones of our team. We feel confident with either, and Petr is always great, so obviously great to see that tonight." </p><p>It was also a big night for Bedard, who extended his point streak to eight games with a goal and an assist.</p><p>Next up for the Blackhawks is a clash against the Detroit Red Wings on Friday.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 08: Petr Mrazek #34 of the Chicago Blackhawks celebrates with teammates after defeating the Colorado Avalanche during the third period at the United Center on January 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Mrazek dazzles in Blackhawks' win over Avs: 'I can still play'

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey exited his team's 5-2 victory over the Nashville Predator...

<p>Winnipeg Jets defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a> exited his team's 5-2 victory over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night.</p><p>Jets head coach Scott Arniel said his top blue-liner suffered a lower-body ailment and will be re-evaluated Wednesday, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/JohnLuTSNWpg/status/1876842037619589204">TSN's John Lu</a>. Arniel added that Morrissey is day-to-day, per the <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/mikemcintyrewpg/status/1876842585890619404">Winnipeg Free Press' Mike McIntyre</a>.</p><p>Morrissey crashed into the post in the second period following an accidental collision with teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2150" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2150">Mark Scheifele</a>. The rearguard limped down the tunnel and returned for one brief shift in the frame, but he didn't return for the final stanza.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vi2q7oq-_58?si=V_DFzFVUbS1VU0DS" 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>Morrissey scored a goal and saw 12:24 minutes of ice time before departing.</p><p>The 29-year-old is enjoying a stellar campaign with five goals and 33 assists in 42 games.</p><p>He ranks among the league leaders in average ice time and came into Tuesday topping all Jets skaters by over two-and-a-half minutes.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - DECEMBER 30: Josh Morrissey #44 of the Winnipeg Jets looks on during a second period stoppage of play against the Nashville Predators at Canada Life Centre on December 30, 2024 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Jets' Morrissey day-to-day after leaving game with lower-body injury

Winnipeg Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck recorded his 300th career win Tuesday night as his team...

<p>Winnipeg Jets netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3997" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> recorded his 300th career win Tuesday night as his team beat the Nashville Predators 5-2.</p><p>Hellebuyck turned aside 26 of 28 shots to reach the mark in his 538th career game. He's the third-fastest goalie to accomplish the feat in NHL history and the quickest U.S.-born player. </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Goalie</th>
<th>GP to 300 wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Andrei Vasilevskiy</td>
<td>490</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Jacques Plante</td>
<td>521</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Connor Hellebuyck</td>
<td>538</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Sergei Bobrovsky</td>
<td>541</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Andy Moog</td>
<td>543</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Hellebuyck's milestone victory was also his 171st on home ice, and the veteran was happy to share the moment with the Jets faithful. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think they were a part of every single one of them," he said during an in-arena postgame interview. "I wouldn't have it any other way. Then, to do it here tonight in front of everyone. ... I'm just very thankful to have this opportunity to be a part of this organization."</p><p>The Michigan native is the 41st goalie to record 300 wins, but he's only the 30th to do so while tallying at least 40 career shutouts, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/jets-connor-hellebuyck-collects-300th-career-win/">Sportsnet</a>.</p><p>Hellebuyck entered the 2024-25 season as the reigning Vezina Trophy winner and is building a strong case to go back-to-back. He owns a spectacular .926 save percentage, five shutouts, and a 25-6-2 record through the first half of the campaign.</p><p>The 31-year-old also entered Tuesday's action as the league's leader in both goals saved above average (22.7) and goals saved above expected (28.79) at all strengths, according to <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/stats/goalie_standard/?_inputs_&amp;std_gl_table=%22On-Ice%22&amp;std_gl_team=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_str=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_adj=%22Score%20%26%20Venue%22&amp;std_gl_range=%22Seasons%22&amp;std_gl_span=%22Regular%22&amp;std_gl_group=%22Team%2C%20Season%22&amp;std_gl_age1=%2217%22&amp;std_gl_age2=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_dft_yr=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_status=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_info=%22No%22&amp;std_gl_players=null&amp;std_gl_fa=%2250%22">Evolving-Hockey</a>. </p><p>Hellebuyck was typically outstanding against the Predators, saving 1.93 goals above expected, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20242025&amp;game=20647">Natural Stat Trick</a>. </p><p>Some of his best saves came in the final minutes of regulation when Nashville was making a push with the extra man.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="sv" dir="ltr">CONNOR HELLEBUYCK. <a href="https://t.co/yHJPqz6Ist">pic.twitter.com/yHJPqz6Ist</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1876834508479385732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The victory snapped a three-game losing streak for the Jets. </p><p>Hellebuyck has spent his entire career in Winnipeg. He was selected by the franchise in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Draft and is currently playing out the first season of the seven-year, $59.5-million extension he signed in October 2023.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - JANUARY 4: Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck #37 of the Winnipeg Jets guards the net during second period action against the Detroit Red Wings at the Canada Life Centre on January 4, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Jets' Hellebuyck records 300th career win in victory over Predators

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