The Carolina Hurricanes signed goaltender Brandon Bussi to a three-year contract extension worth ...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes signed goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12923" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12923">Brandon Bussi</a> to a three-year contract extension worth $1.9 million per season on Monday. </p><p>Carolina claimed Bussi off waivers from the Florida Panthers in October, and he's taken the reins as the Hurricanes' top goalie. The 27-year-old is 23-3-1 this season with two shutouts and a .906 save percentage.</p><p>"Before we brought him to Raleigh, Brandon had been successful at every level from the USHL to college to the AHL," said general manager Eric Tulsky. "Given the opportunity at the NHL level this season, he's proven to be a winner here too. We are thrilled that he will continue to provide a steady presence in the crease for this team into the future."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bussi was never drafted and spent the past five seasons in the Boston Bruins' minor-league system.</p><p>The Hurricanes entered the Olympic break holding an eight-point advantage atop the Metropolitan Division. </p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 03: Brandon Bussi #32 of the Carolina Hurricanes reacts after a 4-3 victory against the Ottawa Senators at Lenovo Center on February 03, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurricanes sign Bussi to 3-year extension

Denmark shocked the United States with a goal from center ice in the first period of Saturday's r...

<p>Denmark shocked the United States with a goal from center ice in the first period of Saturday's round-robin contest.</p><p>Nicholas Jensen ripped a shot from just inside the red line that goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a> couldn't track. The stunning goal gave Denmark a 2-1 lead that it carried into intermission. </p><p><em>For viewers in USA only: </em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DENMARK SCORES FROM CENTER ICE. 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WinterOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WinterOlympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/jELsaAl6Fb">pic.twitter.com/jELsaAl6Fb</a></p>— NBC Olympics &amp; Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCOlympics/status/2022773256004989114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><em>For viewers in Canada only:</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rBK2lX1zOas?si=yFdkDgW1NC4NVbux" 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>Swayman started after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4560">Connor Hellebuyck</a> won USA's opening game on Thursday. Hellebuyck, the back-to-back Vezina Trophy winner, is expected to return to the net Sunday against Germany.</p><p>The long-range goal ultimately didn't come back to hurt the Americans, who went on to claim a 6-3 victory in the contest and improve to 2-0 in round-robin play at the Milan Cortina Games.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 14: (EDITOR'S NOTE: Image was captured using a static remote camera behind the goal.) Jeremy Swayman #1 of Team United States reacts after giving up a goal in the first period during the Men's Preliminary Group C match between the United States and Denmark on day eight of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Watch: Denmark scores from center ice on USA's Swayman

Canada defenseman Josh Morrissey won't play Sunday against France but isn't ruled out for the res...

<p>Canada defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a> won't play Sunday against France but isn't ruled out for the rest of the Olympics, head coach Jon Cooper said Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/2022448614895693884?s=20">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.</p><p>Morrissey didn't suit up for Friday's round-robin win against Switzerland after sustaining an injury against Czechia.</p><p>The Winnipeg Jets blue-liner exited Canada's tournament opener Thursday in the second period and was unable to return. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4175" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4175">Travis Sanheim</a> drew into the lineup in Morrissey's absence, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> dressed in place of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/100">Brad Marchand</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a> started in net after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a>'s 26-save shutout against Czechia. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2003" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2003">Darcy Kuemper</a> served as backup. Canada was expected to make a change between the pipes in the second half of a back-to-back.</p><p>Thompson has posted a .912 save percentage in 39 appearances for the Washington Capitals this season. </p><p>Canada can't add an injury replacement for Morrissey now that the tournament is underway. The specifics of Morrissey's injury remain unknown. </p><p>Morrissey notched 42 points in 56 games for the Jets prior to the Olympics. He started Thursday's contest on Canada's second defensive pairing with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4482" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4482">Colton Parayko</a>.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 12: Josh Morrissey #44 of Team Canada in action during the Men's Ice Hockey - Group A match between Team Czech Republic and Team Canada on day six of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 12, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Canada's Morrissey won't play vs. France, not ruled out of Olympics

The Canadian men's hockey team began its Olympics slate with a 5-0 win over Czechia on Thursday. ...

<p>The Canadian men's hockey team began its Olympics slate with a 5-0 win over Czechia on Thursday.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a> opened the scoring for Canada late in the first period, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> racked up three assists and set the tone for the dominant performance with an uncharacteristically big hit during his first shift.</p><p>"Our team wants to play hard, and everybody wants to play hard at this tournament," McDavid said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/lukefoxjukebox/status/2022017570371743985">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>. "You want to be a hard, forechecking team. And it doesn't need to be just Willy (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a>) or Benny (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>) or Marchy (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/100">Brad Marchand</a>). It can be everybody."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a> was steady in goal, stopping all 26 shots he faced.</p><p>Binnington entered the Olympics under the microscope as a perceived weak spot after posting the worst stats of the three Canadian netminders selected to the roster. He earned the starting role in Italy after a strong effort during Canada's 4 Nations Face-Off triumph last year.</p><p>On Wednesday, Canada head coach Jon Cooper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3476915" href="https://thescore.com/news/3476915">said</a> his team's goaltending dilemma is "not a story."</p><p>While Binnington stood tall between the pipes, the Canadians' offensive depth shined in the victory. The tournament favorites had five different goal-scorers and flexed their muscles on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a>'s third-period power-play goal, which was assisted by McDavid and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a>.</p><p>"Two of the best players ever to play passing it to me is cool," MacKinnon said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SWhyno/status/2022011382879989964">Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press</a>. "I didn't have to do much for that one. Just blessed to be on the backside. Anyone could have put that one in."</p><p>Canada has now won 11 consecutive Olympic games featuring NHL players, with its most recent loss coming in the preliminary round of the 2010 Games.</p><p>The one blemish on its dream start to the Milan Cortina tournament was an injury to defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a>. The specifics of the ailment aren't yet clear, but he only played one shift after the first period.</p><p>Canada returns to action Friday against Switzerland, while Czechia will take on France. </p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 12: Mark Stone #61 of Team Canada celebrates his first goal with teammates during the Men's Ice Hockey - Group A match between Team Czech Republic and Team Canada on day six of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 12, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Canada blanks Czechia to open Olympics with convincing win

Canada men's hockey coach Jon Cooper doesn't agree with the notion that goaltending is a weak spo...

<p>Canada men's hockey coach Jon Cooper doesn't agree with the notion that goaltending is a weak spot for his country at the Milan Cortina Olympics. </p><p>"I understand people have to write about stuff. But our guys go through a wall for them, and they do the same for us," Cooper said, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/its-not-a-story-cooper-pumps-canadas-goalies-in-face-of-doubters/">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>.</p><p>"To me, it's not a story. I don't know where it comes from."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Canada opens its tournament Thursday with a clash against Czechia. Cooper hasn't officially named a starter, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a> is expected to get the nod based on Canada's practice routine. The St. Louis Blues netminder has the worst numbers this NHL season of the three goalies selected to Canada's roster, owning only eight wins in 32 appearances and a .864 save percentage.</p><p>However, Binnington's standout performance at last year's 4 Nations Face-Off put him in the driver's seat to start the Olympic tournament over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2003" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2003">Darcy Kuemper</a>.</p><p>"He proved everything I felt about him," Cooper said. "The biggest stage, at the biggest moment, at the biggest time, he delivered. "There's just some guys that got the it factor."</p><p>Binnington also has a Stanley Cup on his resume, playing an essential role in the Blues' 2019 championship.</p><p>Kuemper and Thompson entered the Olympic break with save percentages of .900 and .912, respectively. Kuemper, who won the Stanley Cup in 2022, was a Vezina Trophy finalist last season, while Thompson finished fourth in voting.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Head coach Jon Cooper of Team Canada takes part during training on day two of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Cooper dismisses Canada's goalie concerns: 'It's not a story'

Canada and the United States' men's hockey teams practiced for the second time in Italy on Monday...

<p>Canada and the United States' men's hockey teams practiced for the second time in Italy on Monday, gearing up for the highly anticipated return of NHLers at the Olympics.</p><p>Both countries will play their first game of the tournament Thursday. Olympic rules permit teams to dress 13 forwards and seven defensemen.</p><p>Although these lineups aren't set in stone for the teams' respective openers, here's how the two gold-medal favorites stacked up in practice.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Canada</h3><p><strong>Forwards</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>LW</th>
<th>C</th>
<th>RW</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>Tom Wilson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Suzuki</td>
<td>Nathan MacKinnon</td>
<td>Brad Marchand</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Stone</td>
<td>Sidney Crosby</td>
<td>Mitch Marner</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Hagel</td>
<td>Bo Horvat</td>
<td>Sam Reinhart</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>, who were both added to the roster as injury replacements, skated as extras.</p><p>The top line of Celebrini, McDavid, and Wilson generated the most buzz. Celebrini is the youngest player in the tournament, while Wilson has assumed a more prominent role than many expected.</p><p>"Right to the penthouse with two amazing players," Wilson said Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/sportsnetkyle/status/2020593755665924416?s=20">Sportsnet's Kyle Bukauskas</a>.</p><p><strong>Defense</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>LD</th>
<th>RD</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Devon Toews</td>
<td>Cale Makar</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh Morrissey</td>
<td>Colton Parayko</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Harley</td>
<td>Drew Doughty</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3232" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3232">Shea Theodore</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4175" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4175">Travis Sanheim</a> were the extras on Canada's defense. Theodore sustained an injury early in last year's 4 Nations Face-Off and didn't return. Sanheim averaged over 17 minutes across three games at the event.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a> was in the starter's net at practice, but head coach Jon Cooper hasn't announced who will be between the pipes against Czechia. Binnington has the worst stats of the three goalies Canada brought to Italy, but he played a key role in securing the 4 Nations championship.</p><h3>United States</h3><p><strong>Forwards</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>LW</th>
<th>C</th>
<th>RW</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jake Guentzel</td>
<td>Auston Matthews</td>
<td>Matt Boldy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brady Tkachuk</td>
<td>Jack Eichel</td>
<td>Matthew Tkachuk</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kyle Connor</td>
<td>Dylan Larkin</td>
<td>Tage Thompson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>J.T. Miller</td>
<td>Brock Nelson</td>
<td>Jack Hughes</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/5592" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/5592">Clayton Keller</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/2089" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/2089">Vincent Trocheck</a> skated as extras, with the latter rotating into the fourth-line center role.</p><p><strong>Defense</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>LD</th>
<th>RD</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Quinn Hughes</td>
<td>Charlie McAvoy</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaccob Slavin</td>
<td>Brock Faber</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Sanderson</td>
<td>Zach Werenski</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/13808" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/13808">Jackson LaCombe</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/4559" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a> skated as the de facto fourth pairing. McAvoy, who was on the receiving end of a controversial hit to the head during his final game before traveling to Milan, has been a full participant in practice.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/3997" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> has occupied his own net in practice, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/8282" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/8282">Jake Oettinger</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wolymhm/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/wolymhm/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a> have rotated in the other. Hellebuyck is the front-runner to start against Latvia, but head coach Mike Sullivan hasn't confirmed anything.</p><p>"Performance matters," Sullivan said, according to <a href="https://x.com/lukefoxjukebox/status/2020561674474762245?s=20">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Sidney Crosby #87 and Drew Doughty #89 of Team Canada takes part during training on day two of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Previewing Canada, U.S. lines after 2nd day of Olympic practices

NHL players are making their long-awaited return to the Olympics. Let's highlight which ones coul...

<p>NHL players are making their long-awaited return to the Olympics. Let's highlight which ones could tip the scales for their respective countries by picking X-factors for Canada, Czechia, Finland, Sweden, and the United States.</p><p>We're not just looking at each country's best player. (Of course Connor McDavid playing well is paramount to Canada's success.) We dig deeper and highlight a variety of candidates who are capable of impacting games in unique ways.</p><h3>Tom Wilson, Canada 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/cropped_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784759/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213949295.jpg?ts=1746760686 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jess Rapfogel / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Wilson's inclusion was a point of debate before and after he made the cut. He's one of only four forwards who weren't on Canada's 4 Nations Face-Off squad but played his way to Milan by generating 49 points in 50<strong> </strong>games prior to the break. Canada doesn't necessarily need Wilson to be a point-per-game player at the Olympics, but the Washington Capitals enforcer is a rare commodity in today's game. He contributes well at even strength, is sound defensively, and can be trusted on the penalty kill.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite blossoming into a well-rounded power forward, Wilson's physicality is his most recognizable trait. He's one of the NHL's most fearsome hitters and has a long list of supplemental discipline. Under IIHF officiating, he'll need to show some restraint. Wilson is capable of overwhelming opponents on smaller ice and being an impact depth player for Canada, but he'll have a short leash for mistakes. Any costly penalties or suspensions will infuriate Canadians who were opposed to him making the roster over skilled players, such as Connor Bedard or Mark Scheifele.</p><h3>Lukas Dostal, Czechia 🇨🇿</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/cropped_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820447/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154346639.jpg?ts=1770222678 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With Russia ineligible to compete in international events, Czechia can comfortably be considered the best hockey country spurned from the 4 Nations. The Czechs won gold at the 2024 world championships and have reached the podium in four consecutive world juniors. Their program is working and now has an opportunity to showcase its talent at the highest level.</p><p>Dostal was vital to Czechia's world championship victory, posting a .939 save percentage and three shutouts in eight games. He also shined at the junior level, so he's proven to excel when representing his country. Dostal flies under the radar playing for the Anaheim Ducks, but he's produced sterling numbers through the organization's rebuild and is a big reason they're in the playoff mix this year. His 43.01 goals saved above expected over the past two seasons ranks seventh among all netminders.</p><p>Choosing a goaltender as an X-factor is a bit of a cop-out, but in a short event, stability between the pipes is paramount.</p><h3>Roope Hintz, Finland 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/cropped_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820448/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199493956.jpg?ts=1770222783 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Finland is missing its best player in Aleksander Barkov, the NHL's premier two-way center. Hintz may well be the next best thing. The Dallas Stars pivot ranks fourth among all forwards this season in Evolving-Hockey's even-strength defense metric and has contributed a respectable 44 points in 52 games.</p><p>Hintz's role is crucial to Finland's medal hopes since he can go head to head with opposing countries' top lines. Ideally, he's up to the task of shutting down the world's best players, which will help his teammates create offense. Finland doesn't have the firepower to play run-and-gun with the likes of Canada or the U.S., and its arsenal of offensive weapons tails off considerably after Mikko Rantanen and Sebastian Aho. The team will need to stick to its identity and commit to a tight defensive game to find success in Milan, but that task becomes much easier with a player like Hintz leading the charge.</p><h3>Rasmus Dahlin, Sweden 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/cropped_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/820449/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200628725.jpg?ts=1770222889 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Jackson/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dahlin is in the Norris Trophy conversation for his role in positioning the Buffalo Sabres to snap their 14-year playoff drought. He ranks seventh in scoring among defensemen this season with 48 points in 52 games and is the third-highest-producing Swede in the league. His impact on Sweden's blue line will be immense, as the Tre Kronor looks to medal at the Olympics for only the second time since capturing gold in 2006.</p><p>Dahlin is likely to be Sweden's most relied-upon defenseman. Victor Hedman has appeared in only three games since returning from injury and didn't play more than 17 minutes in any of them. Erik Karlsson has enjoyed a nice bounce-back season but won't be taking top-pair duties or power-play time from Dahlin. Gustav Forsling will probably be used in a shutdown pairing, while Rasmus Andersson, Philip Broberg, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson simply aren't as versatile as Dahlin. The Sabres star, who's averaging 24:33 per contest this season, will be indispensable for Sweden in getting the puck to its talented cast of forwards at even strength and quarterbacking a potentially lethal power play.</p><h3>Kyle Connor, United States 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/cropped_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771090/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200286284.jpg?ts=1739893208 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brian Babineau/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>For how deep the United States' roster is, most of the discussion has been about who didn't make the team. Jason Robertson and Cole Caufield were notable snubs, but the U.S. isn't lacking talent whatsoever on the wing. One of its top options is Connor, who should be bound for a top-six role after putting up 64 points in 56 games before the break. He also possesses game-breaking speed that fellow forwards Brady and Matthew Tkachuk, Auston Matthews, and Matt Boldy don't bring to the table.</p><p>On top of his skill set, Connor is a player to watch on account of his sour ending to the 4 Nations Face-Off. He was scratched for the final and watched from the press box as the U.S. failed to solve Canada. If Connor arrives in Milan Cortina with vengeance in mind, he could be in for a huge tournament.</p>

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X-factors for top teams in Olympic men's hockey

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to acquire a first-round pick for pending unrestricted free a...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to acquire a first-round pick for pending unrestricted free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a>, reports <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/how-artemi-panarin-ended-up-with-the-los-angeles-kings/">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.</p><p>McMann has notched 19 goals and 13 assists in 56 games this season while counting for $1.35 million against the cap. He's arguably Toronto's best trade chip leading up to the March 6 deadline with the team on course to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2015-16.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2855" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2855">Scott Laughton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2576" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2576">Calle Jarnkrok</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5551" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5551">Troy Stecher </a>could also be on the move as pending UFAs. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Maple Leafs don't have a first-round pick until 2028. They traded their 2026 and 2027 selections to the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers last year to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4643" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4643">Brandon Carlo</a> and Laughton in separate deals.</p><p>The 2026 pick, traded to Boston, is top-five protected. If the Maple Leafs end up in the top five after the draft lottery, the Bruins would receive an unprotected first-rounder in 2028. </p><p>Toronto entered the Olympic break six points back of the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. </p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - FEBRUARY 3: Bobby McMann #74 of the Toronto Maple Leafs in action during the game against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on February 3, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Report: Maple Leafs seeking 1st-round pick for McMann

Carolina Hurricanes forward Seth Jarvis is replacing the injured Brayden Point on Canada's Olympi...

<p>Carolina Hurricanes forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> is replacing the injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4013" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4013">Brayden Point</a> on Canada's Olympic roster, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Point has missed 10 consecutive games due to unspecified injury. He was initially given a week-to-week recovery timeline after needing help off the ice during a game against the Philadelphia Flyers in January.</p><p>The 29-year-old had been skating frequently in hopes of returning for the Olympics and practiced individually on Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/reporterchris/status/2019432228179309051?s=20">The Athletic's Chris Johnston</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Point has notched 30 points in 37 games this season. The two-time Stanley Cup winner and three-time 40-goal scorer was among the first six players named to Canada's Olympic roster last summer.</p><p>Canada also ruled out Lightning forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4748" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4748">Anthony Cirelli</a> from the tournament because of injury, with Florida Panthers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a> picked as his replacement.</p><p>"Devastating," Lightning general manager and Canada executive Julien BriseBois told <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/2019531042227646633">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>. "Incredible selflessness on his part (and Cirelli's). They could've pushed to play at less than 100% but showed character of the highest order in giving up their spot to someone healthier and more apt to help Canada win gold."</p><p>Jarvis was a member of Canada's 4 Nations Face-Off squad but was passed over when the country announced its Olympic team in December. He's managed 43 points in 48 contests this campaign.</p><p>Canada begins its tournament Feb. 12 against Czechia. </p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - FEBRUARY 12: Seth Jarvis #24 of Team Canada skates during the third period against Team Sweden in the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off at the Bell Centre on February 12, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Team Canada defeated Team Sweden 4-3 in overtime.

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Jarvis replacing injured Point on Canadian Olympic team

The New Jersey Devils acquired veteran center Nick Bjugstad from the St. Louis Blues for a fourth...

<p>The New Jersey Devils acquired veteran center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2915" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2915">Nick Bjugstad</a> from the St. Louis Blues for a fourth-round pick in 2026 and prospect Thomas Bordeleau, the teams announced Wednesday.</p><p>Bjugstad has recorded seven points in 35 games this season. He signed with the Blues last summer and remains under contract through 2027 at a cap hit of $1.75 million.</p><p>Bordeleau is a 24-year-old center whom the San Jose Sharks drafted in 2020. He has 44 games of NHL experience and has notched eight points in 35 AHL contests this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Devils will be Bjugstad's seventh team since the start of the 2019-20 campaign. He's been regarded as a reliable depth option for the majority of his career and is only two years removed from a 22-goal, 45-point season with the Arizona Coyotes.</p><p>The Blues and Devils are both on track to miss the playoffs after qualifying last season. </p><p>A trade freeze across the NHL goes into effect at 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday as the league prepares for the Olympic break. </p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - JANUARY 20: Nick Bjugstad #77 of the St. Louis Blues keeps an eye on the play during first period action against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre on January 20, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The Jets defeated the Blues 3-1.

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Blues trade Bjugstad to Devils for prospect, pick

Bryson DeChambeau doesn't seem thrilled about LIV Golf's decision to move from 54- to 72-hole eve...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a> doesn't seem thrilled about LIV Golf's decision to move from 54- to 72-hole events heading into its fifth season. </p><p>"I've got a contract for this year, and we'll go through it there and see what happens after that," he told <a href="https://www.todays-golfer.com/news-and-events/tour-news/liv-golf-stars-divided-over-72-hole-tournaments/">Ben Parsons and Alex Perry of Today's Golfer</a>. "Look, it's 72 holes, it's changed, but we're still excited to play professionally and play for what we're doing and go across the world. I think it's going to be great for our team. Is it what we ultimately signed up for? No. So I think we're supposed to be different, so I'm a little indifferent to it right now.</p><p>"Hopefully it weighs positively on me over the course of time, but you never know. I'm not sure. We didn't sign up to play for 72." </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>LIV announced earlier this offseason it would move to 72 holes in an effort to boost its chances of earning World Ranking points. However, 54-hole events without cuts were one of the breakaway circuit's main selling points when it began luring PGA TOUR players in 2022.</p><p>DeChambeau was offered an opportunity to return to the PGA TOUR this season through the Returning Member Program but chose to honor his LIV Golf contract. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/891" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891">Cameron Smith</a> did the same, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1162" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1162">Patrick Reed </a>opted to return to the TOUR.</p><p>LIV Golf begins its season this week at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia. </p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 19: Bryson DeChambeau of United States looks on on the 12th hole during day three of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 19, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Bryson torn on LIV rule changes: 'We didn't sign up to play' 72-hole events

Barry Trotz is stepping down as Nashville Predators general manager, he announced Monday.  "After...

<p>Barry Trotz is stepping down as Nashville Predators general manager, he announced Monday.</p><p>"After working for 40 years in professional sports and 26 years in the National Hockey League, including the past three as the general manager of the Nashville Predators, I told (owner) Bill Haslam in December that I would be stepping away at the conclusion of my contract at the end of the 2026-27 season," Trotz said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/brooksbratten/status/2018382975931646396">team reporter Brooks Bratten</a>.</p><p>He continued, "After some discussion, we elected to begin a search for my replacement now, but I am happy to work in my current role until we make a new hire, however long that might be."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trotz, who took over the job in 2023, made a huge splash in July 2024 by signing <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>. However, the Predators missed the postseason last year and sit four points out of a playoff spot this season.</p><p>During a press conference, Trotz said he's healthy and isn't stepping down to get back into coaching, according to <a href="https://x.com/brooksbratten/status/2018384227306225683?s=20">Bratten</a>.</p><p>Trotz coached the Predators from 1998-2014 before stints with the Washington Capitals and New York Islanders. He led the Capitals to the Stanley Cup in 2018 and won two Jack Adams Awards after leaving Nashville.</p><p>The 63-year-old was the second general manager in Predators history. He took over for Hockey Hall of Famer David Poile, who'd overseen the organization since its inception in 1997.</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 to step down as Predators GM

Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark had a triumphant return to the crease Saturday night, ma...

<p>Ottawa Senators goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> had a triumphant return to the crease Saturday night, making 26 saves in a 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils in his first game since taking a leave of absence in late December.</p><p>"At the end there, also during lineup, it was really hard holding it together," UIlmark said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/ComingInHotSens/status/2017803463707472259?s=20">Coming In Hot</a>. "I didn't want to hold it together, also. It's one of the things I've been working on, is letting the feelings flow a little bit. There's nothing bad about that. I was really happy that we got a win today as well."</p><p>Ullmark was given a standing ovation by Ottawa's home crowd when the starting lineup was announced and again when he was named first star. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Your First Star in Ottawa...<br><br>Linus Ullmark 🫶 <a href="https://t.co/zlDuWfjuU8">pic.twitter.com/zlDuWfjuU8</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2017796303137214903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It felt like I came out of retirement ... I felt like I've been gone for so long," Ullmark also said. "There was an excitement, I was nervous, which I haven't been in a long time. And that's positive."</p><p>Ullmark hadn't played since Dec. 27. Earlier this month, he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3460415" href="https://thescore.com/news/3460415">acknowledged</a> the leave of absence was for mental health reasons.</p><p>The 32-year-old entered the contest with an .881 save percentage in 28 games this season. He helped the Senators reach the playoffs in 2024-25, his first season with the club.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 31: Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators announced as the number one star during three stars after a game against the New Jersey Devils on January 31, 2026, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Ullmark awarded 1st star in return: 'It was really hard holding it together'

New Jersey Devils star forward Jack Hughes is being evaluated for a lower-body injury suffered in...

<p>New Jersey Devils star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack Hughes</a> is being evaluated for a lower-body injury suffered in Thursday's win over the Nashville Predators, head coach Sheldon Keefe announced postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/amandacstein/status/2017073729063252069?s=20">team reporter Amanda Stein</a>.</p><p>Although Keefe said he doesn't believe the injury is serious, Hughes' status for Saturday's road contest against the Ottawa Senators is unclear, Stein adds.</p><p>Hughes went to the dressing room during the first period, briefly returned for one shift, but then didn't play the rest of the game. He missed 18 contests earlier this season after undergoing finger surgery due to an injury sustained at a team dinner.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When healthy, Hughes has notched 36 points in 35 outings this season. He was named to the United States' Olympic roster earlier in January. The men's tournament is scheduled to begin on Feb. 11 in Milan-Cortina.</p>

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 27: Jack Hughes #86 of the New Jersey Devils controls the puck during the second period against the Winnipeg Jets at Prudential Center on January 27, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Jack Hughes being evaluated for lower-body injury

New York Islanders rookie Matthew Schaefer took a shot at New York Rangers fans after his club wo...

<p>New York Islanders rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a> took a shot at New York Rangers fans after his club won 2-1 at Madison Square Garden on Thursday to complete the season sweep of its in-state rival.</p><p>"Our fans are a lot louder than theirs," Schaefer quipped, per <a href="https://x.com/SWhyno/status/2017068397339480261">Stephen Whyno of The Associated Press</a>. </p><p>The Islanders beat the Rangers in their own rink Wednesday in the first leg of a home-and-home. Thursday's win lifted the Isles to 4-0-0 against the Blueshirts this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Schaefer played a key role in the Isles' latest victory, scoring the eventual game-winner and logging 23:25 of ice time.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MATTHEW SCHAEFER 🤩 <br><br>The 18-year-old scores his 14th of the year! <a href="https://t.co/VLCtJ3gyJV">pic.twitter.com/VLCtJ3gyJV</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2017050923336716437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's so fun," Schaefer said Thursday, per <a href="https://x.com/stefen_rosner/status/2017072152189489650">NHL.com's Stefen Rosner</a>. "You want to beat them every time. It's a playoff game from here on out. Especially against the Rangers, you want to get those two points. It's fun when you're beating them."</p><p>Drafted first overall last summer, Schaefer quickly endeared himself to Islanders fans by <a href="https://x.com/stefen_rosner/status/1938750387068248524?s=20">declaring</a> he wanted to beat the Rangers "every time we play them."</p><p>This marks just the third time in franchise history the Islanders have swept the Rangers in the regular season, and the first time each win has come in regulation.</p><p>The Islanders jumped into third spot in the Metropolitan Division after the win. </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 29: Matthew Schaefer #48 of the New York Islanders celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal in the second period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on January 29, 2026 in New York City.

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Brooks Kopeka recorded a 1-over 73 on Thursday at the Farmers Insurance Open in a rusty return to...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Kopeka</a> recorded a 1-over 73 on Thursday at the Farmers Insurance Open in a rusty return to the PGA TOUR after being reinstated earlier in January.</p><p>Koepka carded two bogeys but ended his day on a high note with a birdie on the final hole of the South Course at Torrey Pines. Thursday's scoring average was nearly three strokes higher than on the North Course, per <a href="https://x.com/JustinRayGolf/status/2017005516581437629">Twenty First Group's Justin Ray</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A difficult up-and-down ends with Brooks' first birdie. <br> <br>It's an opening 73 for Koepka in his return to the PGA TOUR. <a href="https://t.co/xbvaGj7WCT">pic.twitter.com/xbvaGj7WCT</a></p>— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/2017005936896790582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Koepka's lone birdie moved him to a tie for 102nd on the leaderboard. He acknowledged that nerves were among the emotions he felt as he made his return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Just because I care," Koepka said, per <a href="https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/pga/2026/01/29/farmers-brooks-koepka-in-love-with-golf/88421912007/?taid=697bf2522840fc000164fad8&amp;utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A+New+Content+%28Feed%29&amp;utm_medium=trueAnthem&amp;utm_source=twitter">Golfweek's Cameron Jourdan</a>. "I think I've fallen back in love with the game. And honestly, watching my son play a little bit and wanting to be able to see him watch me, or I guess want him to watch me play well and realize how much this game's given me, how fun it is, and how cool it is to just be out here."</p><p>The TOUR established the Returning Member Program to facilitate Koepka's reinstatement after his three-season stint with LIV Golf. As part of his return, Koepka must forfeit his stake in the TOUR's Player Equity Program for five years and make a $5-million charitable donation.</p><p>The parameters of the Returning Member Program <span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">allowed <a href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111" target="_blank">Jon Rahm</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437" target="_blank">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891" target="_blank">Cameron Smith</a></span> to be reinstated on TOUR as well, but all three opted to honor their LIV contracts for the upcoming season.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1162" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1162">Patrick Reed</a> announced Wednesday that he's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3466210" href="https://thescore.com/news/3466210">leaving</a> LIV and seeking reinstatement to the TOUR for the 2027 season. As a past champion, Reed is eligible to play in select events later this season through exemptions.</p><p>While all eyes were on Koepka on Thursday, it was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1013" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1013">Justin Rose</a> who raced out to the early lead in California. The Englishman carded a 10-under 62 after missing the cut at The American Express last week. </p>

LA JOLLA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 29: Brooks Koepka of the United States plays his shot from the second tee during the first round of the Farmers Insurance Open 2026 at Torrey Pines South Course on January 29, 2026 in La Jolla, California.

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Koepka cards 1-over 73 in return to PGA TOUR, Rose leads 1st round

Patrick Reed will no longer compete in LIV Golf and is seeking reinstatement for the 2027 PGA TOU...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1162" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1162">Patrick Reed</a> will no longer compete in LIV Golf and is seeking reinstatement for the 2027 PGA TOUR season, he announced Wednesday via <a href="https://x.com/GOLF_com/status/2016556267079147615">Golf.com</a>.</p><p>The TOUR <a href="https://x.com/PGATOURComms/status/2016556043745313123?s=20">confirmed</a> Reed is eligible to compete as a non-member beginning this August because of his status as a past champion. Reed can also improve his PGA TOUR status with the DP World Tour.</p><p>If Reed finishes in the top 10 of the DP World Tour rankings this season, he's eligible for a full PGA TOUR season in 2027, according to <a href="https://x.com/GOLF_com/status/2016561117175128124?s=20">Dylan Dethier of Golf.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reed would be ineligible for the TOUR's Player Equity Program through 2030, similar to the rules of the Returning Member Program, which was established earlier in January to welcome back major winners who left for LIV Golf. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> is the only player who's utilized the program, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/891" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891">Cam Smith</a> opted to honor their LIV contracts.</p><p>Reed joined LIV Golf in 2022 after collecting nine PGA TOUR wins, most notably the 2018 Masters. He captured one victory during his LIV tenure and won his first European title this past week at the Dubai Desert Classic. </p><p>"I'm a traditionalist at heart, and I was born to play on the PGA TOUR, which is where my story began with my wife, Justine," Reed's statement said. "I am very fortunate for the opportunities that have come my way and grateful for the life we have created. I am moving forward in my career, and I look forward to competing on the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour. I can't wait to get back out there and revisit some of the best places on earth."</p><p>The 35-year-old is well known for his Ryder Cup excellence as a three-time member of Team USA. Reed owns a 7-3-2 record at the biannual event but hasn't been selected for it since 2018. He's also attracted plenty of controversy for multiple rules incidents throughout his career.</p>

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 25: American golfer Patrick Reed in action during the fourth and final round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2026 at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on January 25, 2026.

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Reed leaving LIV, eligible to compete on TOUR later this season

The New York Rangers traded defenseman Carson Soucy to the New York Islanders for a 2026 third-ro...

<p>The New York Rangers traded defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6381" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6381">Carson Soucy</a> to the New York Islanders for a 2026 third-round pick, the teams announced Monday.</p><p>The Rangers held Soucy out of Monday's game against the Boston Bruins before the deal was announced.</p><p>This marks New York's first trade since general manager Chris Drury <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3457295" href="https://thescore.com/news/3457295">announced</a> earlier in January that the club would begin retooling, with the Rangers on track to miss the playoffs for the second consecutive season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Soucy carries a $3.25-million cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. The Rangers acquired him from the Vancouver Canucks last season for a third-round pick.</p><p>The 31-year-old has eight points in 46 games this season while averaging 17 minutes per contest.</p><p>The Islanders are third in the Metropolitan Division with a 27-19-5 record. After missing the playoffs last campaign, they won the draft lottery and selected star defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a> first overall.</p><p>It's only the fourth trade ever between the Rangers and Islanders.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 08: Carson Soucy #24 of the New York Rangers in action against the Buffalo Sabres at Madison Square Garden on January 08, 2026 in New York City. The Sabres won 5-2.

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Rangers trade Soucy to Islanders for 3rd-round pick

The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-3 on Friday night in Mitch Marner's h...

<p>The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-3 on Friday night in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a>'s highly anticipated return to his hometown. </p><p>Marner was showered with boos throughout the evening after a messy departure from Toronto this past summer following nine seasons with the Maple Leafs. He was held off the scoresheet in Vegas' triumph. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">And there are the boos 👀 <a href="https://t.co/jWu1vkUQMH">pic.twitter.com/jWu1vkUQMH</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2014854409730085048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It was fine," Marner said of the boos, per <a href="https://x.com/markhmasters/status/2014910606864752678?s=20">TSN's Mark Masters</a>. "I knew it was going to come tonight. Yeah, the cheering when I was going off was pretty funny. I didn't see that one coming, in a way. The booing when I had it was what I expected so I just tried to play through it and do my thing."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Marner drew a friendlier reaction from the Scotiabank Arena crowd during a first-period video tribute.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Toronto Maple Leafs pay tribute to Mitch Marner in his return 💙🤍 <a href="https://t.co/K9EE3aa0vQ">pic.twitter.com/K9EE3aa0vQ</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2014858899963191807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Overall, Marner's relieved the hoopla is over with.</p><p>"Yeah, completely. Definitely," Marner <a href="https://x.com/markhmasters/status/2014907822698271123?s=20">said</a>. "Honestly, yeah. I don't have to talk about it anymore. I'm sure those guys (Maple Leafs) are relieved not having to talk about it, too."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> carried the load for Vegas with two goals and an assist, including a key insurance marker late in the third period after the Maple Leafs failed to convert on a power play that could have tied the game. </p><p>The Golden Knights opened up a two-goal lead less than five minutes into the contest. Toronto got within one at two separate points but never equalized. </p><p>The Maple Leafs have lost five of their past six contests, including two defeats to the Golden Knights. </p><p>"For me, the standard's got to be better and higher," Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said, according to <a href="https://x.com/davidalter/status/2014898370880340356?s=20">David Alter of The Hockey News</a>. "We're at home here. We're not playing consistently enough with the urgency that is needed."</p>

TORONTO, ON- JANUARY 23 - Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mitch Marner (93) congratulates Vegas Golden Knights right wing Pavel Dorofeyev (16) after he scores in the second period as the Toronto Maple Leafs play the Vegas Golden Knights at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. January 23, 2026. Steve Russell/Toronto Star (Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Golden Knights top Maple Leafs in Marner's return to Toronto

The Edmonton Oilers are targeting top-nine forwards to acquire ahead of the March 6 trade deadlin...

<p>The Edmonton Oilers are targeting top-nine forwards to acquire ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6991915/2026/01/22/nhl-trades-maple-leafs-oilers-rangers-rumblings/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a> reports.</p><p>No deals are imminent, and any potential trade is likely to occur after the Olympic break concludes in late February, LeBrun adds.</p><p>The Oilers' top players have been highly productive this season - captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> leads the NHL with 85 points in 51 games - but depth scoring is a concern for the back-to-back Western Conference champions. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4791" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4791">Andrew Mangiapane</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12722" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12722">Isaac Howard</a>, two players brought in over the offseason to provide extra offense, have a combined 17 points on the year. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5614" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5614">Trent Frederic</a>, whom Edmonton acquired before last year's deadline and subsequently signed to an eight-year extension, has only three points in 49 games this season.</p><p>The Oilers currently have just over $270K in cap space, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/edmonton-oilers">PuckPedia</a>, so they'll need to move money out to facilitate a trade.</p><p>Edmonton sits second in the Pacific Division, two points behind the Vegas Golden Knights with three extra games played.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - JANUARY 17: Zach Hyman #18 of the Edmonton Oilers celebrates his goal with teammates during the second period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on January 17, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Report: Oilers targeting top-9 forwards ahead of deadline

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/sean-o-leary/content_cards