Several New Jersey Devils supported Luke Hughes after the defenseman was booed on home ice Sunday...

<p>Several New Jersey Devils supported <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a> after the defenseman was booed on home ice Sunday for a pair of costly errors in a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. </p><p>Hughes scored on his own net in the opening minute, then lost the puck to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> in front of the crease in the second period. The second mistake stood as the winning goal for Carolina. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/le83eX0gVqw?si=yHU1gdAnIh1i22dj" 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>Hughes took ownership of his gaffes after the loss. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It is what it is. It's part of sports," Hughes said, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/game-story-2025020660">team reporter Sam Kasan</a>. "Obviously, I made a couple mistakes today, and I gotta be better, and it is what it is."</p><p>Head coach Sheldon Keefe didn't appreciate the home crowd turning on the 22-year-old. </p><p>"It's disappointing that that was the reaction that we had in the building for the youngest player on the ice," he said. "But he'll give them lots of reasons to cheer in the future."</p><p>Goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1063" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1063">Jake Allen</a>, who started the contest, also thought the fans' reaction was unfair.</p><p>"I've made so many mistakes to count," Allen said. "I've had fans boo me. I've had this and that, which, listen, I don't think he deserves. He's a kid that made two mistakes in a hockey game. Whoever doesn't make mistakes, I'd love to meet you, you know? But, it's a tough situation for him. In a game like that, probably something he's never felt before."</p><p>Hughes has struggled defensively this season but has produced 21 points in 42 games while averaging over 23 minutes per contest. He's in his third full NHL season after being drafted fourth overall in 2021, and he's playing the first campaign of a seven-year, $63-million contract signed in October after negotiations lingered through training camp.</p>

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 04: Nikolaj Ehlers #27 of the Carolina Hurricanes celebrates an own goal during the first period by the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on January 4, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Devils support Luke Hughes after boos for 2 costly gaffes

Gavin McKenna is feeling the weight of Canada's heartbreaking semifinal defeat to Czechia on Sund...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/16986" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/16986">Gavin McKenna</a> is feeling the weight of Canada's heartbreaking semifinal defeat to Czechia on Sunday at the world juniors. </p><p>"It's the same feeling," McKenna said after the loss, per <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/world-juniors/article/czechia-tops-canada-to-advance-to-gold-medal-game-at-world-junior-championship/">The Canadian Press</a>. "Letting your country down sucks."</p><p>McKenna was one of six returnees from last year's roster, which lost to Czechia in the quarters. The 18-year-old, who's been projected as the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft for several years, has 10 points in six games at this year's tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's hopeful Canada can rebound in time to defeat Finland in the bronze-medal game Monday.</p><p>"Very tough, but doing it for Canada," McKenna said. "We've got to regroup to be ready."</p><p>Canada has been eliminated by the Czechs three years in a row, with each defeat coming via a dramatic late goal. Sunday's contest was decided by Tomas Poletin's go-ahead tally with 1:14 remaining in regulation. Despite the tight scoreline, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/16334" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/16334">Michael Misa</a> acknowledged Canada was outplayed.</p><p>"They just played grittier," Misa said. "The whole game, they outcompeted us." </p><p>If Canada fails to defeat Finland on Monday, it will mark the country's first three-year medal drought at the event since 1979-81.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 29: Gavin McKenna #9 of Canada reacts after winning best player for Canada during the Group B, Game 14 match against Denmark at the IIHF World Junior Championship at Mariucci Arena on December 29, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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McKenna distraught after semis loss: 'Letting your country down sucks' 

The Ottawa Senators were furious after Winnipeg Jets defenseman Logan Stanley sucker punched capt...

<p>The Ottawa Senators were furious after Winnipeg Jets defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5603" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5603">Logan Stanley</a> sucker punched captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> during a scrum in Saturday night's contest. </p><p>The two players got entangled in front of the Senators' bench before Stanley landed a punch on Tkachuk while the refs tried to separate them.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ntoNXO28q0E?si=xAvApdJWWp_r4Fss" 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>Tkachuk, still hampered by a thumb injury sustained earlier this season, is unable to fight and must wear a protective brace. As a result of the altercation, officials assessed Stanley with two roughing minors and handed Tkachuk a 10-minute misconduct for his reaction.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I will probably choose my words wisely," head coach Travis Green said, according to <a href="https://ottawacitizen.com/ottawa-senators/ottawa-senators-victory-winnipeg-jets">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><p>"If the refs had to do it again and call it again, they'd probably make a different call. You never like to see a guy get suckered in the face. It's unfortunate. We're lucky he came back. He's an All-Star player. I'm sure their team wouldn't be happy if (Kyle) Connor got suckered in the face and there was just a two-minute minor for roughing."</p><p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/911">Claude Giroux</a> was at a loss for words on the incident. </p><p>"You don't like to see that stuff happening," he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/7_9vymfI8T8">said</a>. "I don't know if Stanley thought he was in a fight. I seriously don't know what to say."</p><p>Tkachuk returned to the contest after his misconduct, helping the Senators secure a 4-2 victory to hand the Jets their ninth consecutive loss.</p><p>The two clubs don't meet again this season. </p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - JANUARY 3: Brady Tkachuk #7 of the Ottawa Senators between whistles during the second period against the Winnipeg Jets on January 3, 2026 at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Senators stunned after Jets' Stanley sucker punches Tkachuk

Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson limped off the ice during the first period of Saturday's t...

<p>Washington Capitals forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a> limped off the ice during the first period of Saturday's tilt against the Chicago Blackhawks following a collision with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2548" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2548">Connor Murphy</a>. </p><p>Wilson grabbed at his right leg after falling to the ice. Trainers assisted him down the tunnel and he missed the remainder of the game, which Chicago won 3-2 in a shootout. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALLCAPS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALLCAPS</a> Tom Wilson gets hurt and goes down the tunnel. Right leg <a href="https://t.co/f2PDk2GUdD">pic.twitter.com/f2PDk2GUdD</a></p>— Capitals Replays 🍁 (@capsreplays) <a href="https://twitter.com/capsreplays/status/2007613415842570551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery said he doesn't believe Wilson's injury is "too bad" but he'll undergo further evaluation Sunday, per <a href="https://x.com/sammisilber/status/2007650272970178607?s=20">Sammi Silber of The Hockey News</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wilson entered the contest leading the Capitals with 22 goals and 42 points in 40 games. He was named to Canada's Olympic team Wednesday.</p>

WASHINGTON, D.C. - DECEMBER 20: Tom Wilson #43 of the Washington Capitals warms up before the game against the Detroit Red Wings on December 20, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

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Capitals' Wilson limps off ice vs. Blackhawks with apparent leg injury

Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson expressed his disappointment Friday following his controvers...

<p>Dallas Stars forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6608" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6608">Jason Robertson</a> expressed his disappointment Friday following his controversial omission from the United States Olympic men's hockey roster.</p><p>"Obviously, it hurts your ego, but I'm not going to change the way I play, and I'm happy to keep doing it here," Robertson said, per <a href="https://archive.is/20260103210936/https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/stars/2026/01/03/dallas-stars-jason-robertson-addresses-team-usa-snub-2026-winter-olympics/#selection-1871.1-1871.111">Lia Assimakopoulos of The Dallas Morning News</a>. "I think I just strive to be the best whenever I can be. It just so happened this year was an Olympic year. That's not gonna stop me from doing that the rest of the season."</p><p>The U.S. Olympic team passed over Robertson despite the 26-year-old ranking sixth in the NHL with 24 goals and leading American-born players with 48 points this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Robertson was also left off last February's 4 Nations Face-Off squad after an underwhelming start to the 2024-25 campaign. He said Friday that he believed his performance this year warranted a spot on the roster for Milan Cortina.</p><p>"Yeah, I thought that this year was different than last year," Robertson said. "Obviously, last year, I didn't think I was good enough. Now, I think I did. It's their choice, their decision. That's it."</p><p>Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin assembled the USA's Olympic roster. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5592">Clayton Keller</a> of the Utah Mammoth and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5611" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5611">Tage Thompson</a> of the Buffalo Sabres were the only forwards to make the team who weren't part of the 4 Nations group that lost in the final to Canada.</p><p>The U.S. can still call on Robertson as an injury replacement.</p>

DALLAS, TX - DECEMBER 31: Jason Robertson #21 of the Dallas Stars skates against the Buffalo Sabers at the American Airlines Center on December 31, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Robertson: Team USA snub 'hurts your ego' 

The United States' gold-medal streak at the World Junior Championship is over after Finland knock...

<p>The United States' gold-medal streak at the World Junior Championship is over after Finland knocked off the tournament host with a 4-3 victory in Friday's quarterfinal matchup.</p><p>Arttu Valila scored the overtime winner after a frenetic ending to the third period in which Finland took the lead with two goals in 55 seconds, only to set the stage for Ryker Lee's equalizer with 1:33 left in regulation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ARTTU VALILA IS THE OVERTIME HERO! FINLAND CRUSHES THE UNITED STATES' HOPES OF A THREE-PEAT AT THE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDJUNIORS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDJUNIORS</a>! 🤯🤯🤯 <a href="https://t.co/RGOAX0dTw5">pic.twitter.com/RGOAX0dTw5</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2007265709043175787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The United States entered the event as back-to-back champions and defeated Finland in last year's gold-medal game. James Hagens, Will Zellers, and Brodie Ziemer were named the top American players of the tournament following the loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Finland last won a gold medal in 2019. It's captured one bronze and two silver medals since.</p>

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 02: Nick Kempf #31 of the United States makes a save against Julius Miettinen #27 of Finland in the second period of a quarterfinal game during the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship at Grand Casino Arena on January 02, 2026 in St Paul, Minnesota.

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Finland ousts USA at WJHC with OT win in quarterfinal

Canada used a five-goal first period to cruise to a 7-1 victory over Slovakia in Friday's quarter...

<p>Canada used a five-goal first period to cruise to a 7-1 victory over Slovakia in Friday's quarterfinal matchup at the 2026 World Junior Championship.</p><p>With the emphatic win, Canada advances to a semifinal showdown with Czechia on Sunday. Czechia eliminated Canada in each of the past two years, but Canada earned a 7-5 victory when the two countries clashed on Boxing Day.</p><p>Sweden and Finland play in the other semifinal after defeating Latvia and the United States, respectively, earlier Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Semifinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YqNoa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YqNoa/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="234" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Canada's five-goal outburst came in under six minutes to close out the opening frame. Cole Reschny scored the icebreaker, followed by tallies from Tij Iginla, Michael Misa, Sam O'Reilly, and Brady Martin.</p><p>Six Canadian skaters produced multi-point games, while goaltender Jack Ivankovic stopped 12 of 13 shots faced. </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 2: Brady Martin #28 of Canada celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against Slovakia during the first period of a 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship quarterfinal game at Mariucci Arena on January 2, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Canada crushes Slovakia to set up semifinal clash with Czechia

Canada unveiled its highly anticipated men's hockey roster for the 2026 Olympics on Wednesday.   ...

<p>Canada unveiled its highly anticipated men's hockey roster for the 2026 Olympics on Wednesday. </p><p>The group heading to Milan Cortina is nearly identical to the squad that won the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, with a handful of new additions. Canada can still make changes if injuries occur.</p><p>👉 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3440042" href="https://thescore.com/news/3440042"><strong>Roster analysis, snubs, and more</strong></a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Forwards</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-X6otF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/X6otF/9/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Suzuki, Celebrini, Horvat, and Wilson weren't on the 4 Nations roster. Celebrini, 19, played his way onto the team with 60 points in his sophomore season, which trails only McDavid and MacKinnon in the NHL's scoring race.</p><p>Blackhawks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> is perhaps the most notable omission from Canada's roster. He racked up 44 points in 31 games before an upper-body injury sidelined him in mid-December. However, Canada general manager Doug Armstrong said the issue wasn't a deciding factor in Bedard missing the cut.</p><p>The 4 Nations forwards who aren't returning to the Canadian team are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4574" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4574">Travis Konecny</a>. Notably, Bennett has won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Florida Panthers and won the Conn Smythe as playoff MVP this past spring.</p><h3>Defensemen</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ggNCw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ggNCw/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="212" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Canada's defensive corps is the same unit that won the 4 Nations. Makar was one of the first six skaters named to the team over the summer and is in the driver's seat to win the Norris Trophy for the third time in seven seasons.</p><p>Doughty is the only Canadian defenseman with Olympic experience. He captured gold medals in 2010 and 2014 and has also won at the international level at the world juniors, World Cup, and 4 Nations.</p><p>New York Islanders rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a> was speculated to be in the mix to make the team as an 18-year-old but missed out amid his dominant debut campaign.</p><p>"He's a fantastic talent, he brings you out of your seat every night," Armstrong said of Schaefer. "He's got maturity beyond his years on and off the ice." </p><h3>Goaltenders</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XsCMh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XsCMh/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="116" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Binnington is the lone returnee after backstopping Canada to its 4 Nations title. He has a longstanding relationship with Armstrong and a Stanley Cup on his resume but has the worst stats of Canada's goaltending trio this season.</p><p>The St. Louis Blues netminder has an .870 save percentage and seven wins in 23 appearances this season. Thompson, a surprising snub from the 4 Nations roster, owns a .915 clip in 2025-26 after finishing fourth in Vezina Trophy voting last year.</p><p>Kuemper is coming off an injury but has posted a .917 save percentage when healthy. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4728" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4728">Samuel Montembeault</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4649" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4649">Adin Hill</a> were on the 4 Nations roster but didn't get any playing time. </p><p>👉 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3440042" href="https://thescore.com/news/3440042"><strong>Roster analysis, snubs, and more</strong></a></p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 17: Nathan MacKinnon #29 and Sidney Crosby #87 of Team Canada chat prior to a second period faceoff against Team Finland in the 4 Nations Face-Off game at TD Garden on February 17, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Canada unveils Olympic roster for Milan Cortina

Nashville Predators veteran Steven Stamkos registered his 600th career goal Wednesday against the...

<p>Nashville Predators veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> registered his 600th career goal Wednesday against the Vegas Golden Knights.</p><p>Stamkos' milestone marker came on a vintage one-timer from the left circle on the power play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="nl" dir="ltr">STEVEN STAMKOS IS A 600-GOAL MAN 🔨 <a href="https://t.co/S6AlF0pvql">pic.twitter.com/S6AlF0pvql</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2006466407127548000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He's the 22nd player in NHL history to achieve the feat and is likely to pass Jarri Kurri (601), Dino Ciccarelli (608), and Bobby Hull (610) on the all-time goals list this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stamkos' tally Wednesday marked his 18th of the campaign. Red-hot lately, he's on track to eclipse his disappointing 27-goal output from last season, his first with the Predators.</p><p>The 35-year-old previously spent 16 years with the Tampa Bay Lightning, scoring 555 goals, winning two Stanley Cups, and earning a pair of "Rocket" Richard trophies with the Bolts.</p>

SAINT PAUL, MN - DECEMBER 23: Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos (91) skates on the ice during the first period of the NHL game between the Nashville Predators and Minnesota Wild on December 23rd, 2025, at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, MN.

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Stamkos becomes 22nd NHLer to score 600 goals

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev is set to miss "significant time" due to a groin injur...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1685" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1685">Chris Tanev</a> is set to miss "significant time" due to a groin injury, head coach Craig Berube announced Wednesday.</p><p>"They're looking at things going forward here, so I'm not gonna speculate on what they’re gonna exactly do. But he's gonna be out a while," Berube said, per <a href="https://x.com/jonassiegel/status/2006411637650063511">The Athletic's Jonas Siegel</a>.</p><p>Tanev recently returned from a 23-game absence for an upper-body injury but made only three appearances before being sidelined again. The 36-year-old has suited up 11 times this season. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto is also currently without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4180" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10054" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10054">Dakota Joshua</a> due to injuries. Their respective return dates are unclear. </p><p>The Maple Leafs resume action Thursday against the Winnipeg Jets. </p>

DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 28: Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev (8) skates during the second period of a regular season NHL hockey game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings on December 28, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.

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Tanev to miss 'significant time' with groin injury

New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe doesn't want Nico Hischier to become an enforcer, thou...

<p>New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe doesn't want <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6426" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6426">Nico Hischier</a> to become an enforcer, though he didn't mind his captain dropping the gloves with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> on Tuesday in an effort to provide his team a spark.</p><p>Hischier and Knies went toe-to-toe with the Devils trailing the Toronto Maple Leafs 2-0 in the third period. Toronto went on to win 4-0, and Keefe addressed his club's need for more emotion following the loss. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matthew Knies and Nico Hischier drop the gloves off the draw 👊 <a href="https://t.co/RX2MgLPaRa">pic.twitter.com/RX2MgLPaRa</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2006187501841518997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I mean, do I want our captain and one of our best players fighting when we're down 2-0 in the third period? Absolutely not," Keefe said, per <a href="https://x.com/JamesNicholsNHL/status/2006201342872739898?s=20">James Nichols of NJ Hockey Now</a>. "But do we need some guys to step up to show some emotion and some balls and play with some urgency and competitiveness and step out of character? Yeah, we need more of that.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"So to that end, I like it. I like that Nico did it and hopefully it rubs off on the rest of the group in a positive way," Keefe added. "I didn't think that it did in that moment, but you want to talk about gut checks, there's one. Your captain's out there taking on a big guy stepping out of character."</p><p>Hischier only had one previous scrap in his NHL career, according to <a href="https://www.hockeyfights.com/players/23737">Hockeyfights.com</a>. The 2017 first overall pick took on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2567" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2567">Mikael Granlund</a> during the 2021-22 campaign. </p><p>Keefe continued, "We'll see what we have with our group, but we need more guys that are going to show a little bit more if you're not going to score. If you're not going to score, give us a little bit more competitively and physically and show that you're working to find your way. There's not enough of that. We're just kind of going about our business."</p><p>Hischier ranks second on the Devils this season with 30 points in 39 games.</p><p>The Devils have lost three in a row and four of 10. New Jersey is three points back of a wild-card seed. The crowded Eastern Conference standings currently has eight teams within five points of the last playoff spot.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 30: Nico Hischier #13 of the New Jersey Devils skates with the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period at the Scotiabank Arena on December 30, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Devils' Keefe hails Hischier's surprise fight: 'We need more of that'

United States defenseman Cole Hutson was stretchered off the ice during the second period of Satu...

<p>United States defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15076" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15076">Cole Hutson</a> was stretchered off the ice during the second period of Saturday's contest against Switzerland after taking a puck to the neck area.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cole Hutson had to be stretchered off the ice after taking a puck to the head vs. Switzerland. 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldJuniors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldJuniors</a> <a href="https://t.co/JDEx3oECTB">pic.twitter.com/JDEx3oECTB</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2005073933259743639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Hutson was down for several minutes and moving his extremities before medics helped him off the ice.</p><p>Hutson was later discharged from the hospital and rejoined his teammates at the rink, Team USA head coach Bob Motzko told <a href="https://x.com/jonmorosi/status/2005097496809501115?s=20">NHL Network's Jon Morosi</a>. His status for the remainder of the tournament will be evaluated Sunday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Washington Capitals prospect is a returnee from last year's gold medal-winning team. He was named a tournament All-Star after leading the event with 11 points.</p><p>Hutson collected two assists in the U.S.' Boxing Day win over Germany. He posted 20 points in 18 games with Boston University before the tournament began.</p><p>He's the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12709" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12709">Lane Hutson</a>, who won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year in 2025. </p><p>The U.S. ultimately won the contest 2-1. The hosts return to action Monday against Slovakia.</p>

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 26: Cole Hutson #44 of the United States skates with the puck against Germany in the third period of a group stage game at Grand Casino Arena on December 26, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. The United States defeated Germany 6-3.

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Team USA's Hutson stretchered off after taking puck to neck

Marc Bergevin is leaving his senior advisor role with the Los Angeles Kings to join the Buffalo S...

<p>Marc Bergevin is leaving his senior advisor role with the Los Angeles Kings to join the Buffalo Sabres as associate general manager, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MatthewFairburn/status/2002571321620754681?s=20">The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn</a>. </p><p>Buffalo has shaken up its front office with a handful of moves this past week. The Sabres fired general manager Kevyn Adams on Monday and replaced him with Jarmo Kekalainen, then the latter fired associate GM Jason Karmanos on Saturday.</p><p>Bergevin has held an executive role with the Kings since 2022. He was the Montreal Canadiens GM from 2012-2021 before moving to Hollywood, and also has front-office experience with the Chicago Blackhawks.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Sabres won their fifth consecutive game Saturday, but have missed the playoffs for an NHL-record 14 consecutive seasons.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - JULY 23: General manager Marc Bergevin of the Montreal Canadiens attends the first round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft at Bell Center on July 23, 2021 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

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Report: Bergevin leaving advisor role with Kings to be Sabres' AGM

The United States added pitchers Tarik Skubal, Mason Miller, Logan Webb, and David Bednar to its ...

<p>The United States added pitchers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16437">Mason Miller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10606">Logan Webb</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9025" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9025">David Bednar</a> to its 2026 World Baseball Classic roster Thursday.</p><p>Skubal has won back-to-back American League Cy Young Awards as the ace of the Detroit Tigers. He was 13-6 in 2025 with a 2.21 ERA, 241 strikeouts, and 0.89 WHIP.</p><p>The 29-year-old is a two-time All-Star and has been integral in helping Detroit reach the playoffs the past two campaigns. Trade rumors have surrounded Skubal this offseason as he and the Tigers are reportedly far apart in negotiations on a contract extension.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Webb posted a 3.22 ERA with an NL-best 224 strikeouts over an MLB-high 207 innings in 2025 en route to finishing fourth in NL Cy Young voting.</p><p>Skubal and Webb join an American starting rotation that already features National League Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a>, Minnesota Twins ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12305" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12305">Joe Ryan</a>, Chicago Cubs All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5285" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5285">Matthew Boyd</a>, and New York Mets right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>.</p><p>Miller is one of MLB's most dominant relievers. The Athletics traded him to the San Diego Padres this past season. Between the two clubs, Miller racked up 104 strikeouts in 60 appearances along with a 2.63 ERA. </p><p>Bednar, a two-time All-Star, authored a combined 2.30 ERA with 27 saves and a career-high 12.4 K/9 in 64 appearances between the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates in 2025. The 31-year-old is the only pitcher so far returning from the 2023 roster that lost to Japan in the final.</p><p>The United States will field a star-studded team for March's international event. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12336" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12336">Bobby Witt Jr.</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10827" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10827">Cal Raleigh</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4761" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4761">Kyle Schwarber</a> are among the position players already named to the roster.</p>

DETROIT, MI - JUNE 29: Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) reacts after striking out Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa (not pictured) to end the first inning of a regular season Major League Baseball game between the Minnesota Twins and the Detroit Tigers on June 29, 2025 at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan.

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USA adds Skubal, Miller, Webb, Bednar to WBC roster

Team Canada's management group has five personnel decisions remaining for the men's Olympic roste...

<p>Team Canada's management group has five personnel decisions remaining for the men's Olympic roster before the Dec. 31 deadline, <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/2025/12/18/early-trading-team-canada-down-to-about-five-roster-decisions/">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a> reported on Thursday's edition of "Insider Trading." </p><p>Canada is still deciding on two roster spots for both forwards and defensemen and one spot in goal, LeBrun notes.</p><p>The four most prominent forwards on the bubble who didn't make February's 4 Nations Face-Off squad are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a>, who's tied for sixth in league scoring and is out until at least January with an upper-body injury, is trending toward a spot on Canada's reserve list, per LeBrun.</p><p>On defense, Canada's brass is apparently debating the fits of rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7827">Evan Bouchard</a>.</p><p>The four goalies still in the mix for the final roster spot are reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2003">Darcy Kuemper</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4779" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4779">Mackenzie Blackwood</a>. Binnington has the worst stats of that group this season, but he started at the 4 Nations and has a longstanding relationship with Canada and St. Louis Blues general manager Doug Armstrong.</p><p>Canada's men's hockey team opens its Olympic schedule Feb. 12 against Czechia.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JUNE 29: General manager Doug Armstrong of the St. Louis Blues talks on his phone during the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft - Rounds 2-7 at Bridgestone Arena on June 29, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Report: Canada down to 5 decisions for Olympic roster

Newly promoted general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is confident in the direction of the Buffalo Sabr...

<p>Newly promoted general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is confident in the direction of the Buffalo Sabres even though they sit last in the Eastern Conference. </p><p>"I think we're close," Kekalainen said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/jarmo-kekalainen-wants-to-build-a-championship-team-as-buffalo-sabres-gm">NHL.com's Heather Engel</a>. "You can't (hit) the fast-forward button, even if you'd like to sometimes. ... I think there are a lot of good pieces here. I think we're very close. I firmly believe we can make the playoffs this year. There's a lot of hockey left."</p><p>He added, "We're going to have a plan, and the plan is going to be the Stanley Cup. And we're not going to take any shortcuts to try to just make the playoffs to end the drought. ... We have some really good core pieces here. We're close. Now we just have to take the next step."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Buffalo has missed the playoffs in 14 consecutive seasons, the longest postseason drought in NHL history. The Sabres fired general manager Kevyn Adams on Monday after a 14-14-4 start to the campaign. </p><p>Adams was at the helm for five-plus seasons. Some of his most notable moves as GM include trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4558" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4558">Jack Eichel</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4487" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4487">Brandon Montour</a> in separate deals. Each player has won a Stanley Cup since being dealt. </p><p>The Sabres hired Kekalainen in May to be a senior advisor. He joined Buffalo's front office following an 11-year run as GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets.</p><p>Sabres captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> advocated for Kekalainen, the team's third GM since he was drafted first overall in 2018.</p><p>"I think Jarmo's going to be the one that turns it around," Dahlin said, according to <a href="https://x.com/rachelmlenzi/status/2001341643941941754?s=20">Rachel Lenzi of The Buffalo News</a>.</p>

BUFFALO, NY - JUNE 25: Columbus Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen attends the 2016 NHL Draft on June 25, 2016 in Buffalo, New York.

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Kekalainen confident Sabres can contend: 'I think we're close'

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube disagrees with the NHL Department of Player Safety's ...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube disagrees with the NHL Department of Player Safety's decision to suspend forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a> one game for high-sticking.</p><p>McMann was given a match penalty after he struck Tampa Bay Lightning forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3045">Oliver Bjorkstrand</a> over the head in the third period.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann has been suspended 1 game for high sticking <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoBolts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoBolts</a> forward Oliver Bjorkstrand. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LeafsForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LeafsForever</a> <a href="https://t.co/UKpkqo2LpB">pic.twitter.com/UKpkqo2LpB</a></p>— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PuckReportNHL/status/1998538685671944195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The scrum ensued after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9254" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9254">Gage Goncalves</a> earned a match penalty of his own for kneeing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4653" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4653">Dakota Mermis</a>. Goncalves wasn't disciplined by the league.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gage Goncalves received a 5-minute major and a game misconduct for kneeing on Dakota Mermis <a href="https://t.co/hGtUJbZjcl">pic.twitter.com/hGtUJbZjcl</a></p>— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) <a href="https://twitter.com/GinoHard_/status/1998223837302079889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"We lose a guy for probably a month at least. There's nothing," Berube said of Mermis' injury, per <a href="https://x.com/jonassiegel/status/1998807135518597322?s=20">The Athletic's Jonas Siegel</a>. "And that hurt. I thought it was more of him getting bumped and his stick (came up). I know you (got to) be in control of your stick, but I don't think it's worth a suspension."</p><p>McMann had no history of suspensions or fines before the incident. He'll be forced to sit out Thursday's contest against the San Jose Sharks. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 8: =v72= and Bobby McMann #74 of the Toronto Maple Leafs battle for the puck during the first period at the Scotiabank Arena on December 8, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Berube: McMann's high stick not worth suspension

Following theScore's Olympic hockey roster projections from last week, we're taking a closer look...

<p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">Following theScore's Olympic hockey <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3408377" target="_blank">roster projections</a> from last week, we're taking a closer look at some of the most polarizing bubble players from Canada and the United States as the Dec. 31 roster submission deadline approaches.</span></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-e9SpC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/e9SpC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Connor Bedard</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/cropped_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w220xh124_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w320xh180_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w640xh360_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w768xh432_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Hyped as a generational talent entering the 2023 draft, Bedard has lived up to that billing in his third NHL season after a pair of so-so years to begin his career. He currently sits sixth in NHL scoring with 40 points in 29 games. While that production is impressive, his drastically improved foot speed (his top skating speed is nearly a full mph faster than a year ago) is what should give him a real shot at cracking a loaded Team Canada. If the squad omits Bedard and fails to win gold, fans will view this as one of the worst decisions made by a Canadian Olympic hockey general manager. No pressure, Doug Armstrong.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Bedard's defensive game still leaves a lot to be desired. He ranks in the eighth percentile of <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>'s defensive rating, a marginal improvement from his first two years. That begs the question about whether head coach Jon Cooper can trust Bedard in a top-six role alongside Connor McDavid or Nathan MacKinnon, where he'll see the best competition from opposing teams. If Cooper lacks that trust, does Bedard fit in the bottom six, where penalty killers and role players might be preferred?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Although we've left Bedard off our most recent roster projections, his consistently high level of performance is making it increasingly likely that Armstrong finds a spot for him - whether that's by cutting Mark Stone and/or Seth Jarvis. Bedard deserves a chance to hang as a top-six winger. If that doesn't work, he can be the extra forward or sit in the press box. The upside is too high to pass on.</p><h3>Sam Bennett</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Big-game players make big-time plays in big-time games. That's all Bennett has done for the last year or so. His selection for the 4 Nations Face-Off raised some eyebrows, but he had a great tournament. He was even better for the Panthers in the playoffs, winning the Conn Smythe Trophy with 15 goals in 23 postseason appearances. Clutch is hard to measure, but Bennett definitely has it. He's tough, gritty, and a proven winner who will have no issue taking a lesser role as a fourth-line checker. </p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>While Bennett has picked things up a little bit lately, he still hasn't had a great season overall, playing at a 49-point pace<em><strong>. </strong></em>He's also never been a great defensive player, despite his intangibles and physicality. Picking Bennett for his past big-game moments over several players who've significantly outperformed him this season could be a huge mistake.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. It's easy to see why Canada would want to run it back, but multiple players who weren't at the 4 Nations should have surpassed him on the pecking order by now.</p><h3>Macklin Celebrini</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/cropped_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eurasia Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Celebrini has done everything in his power to earn a long look from Canada's brass. He trails only MacKinnon and McDavid in the Art Ross race with 43 points, establishing himself as a legitimate MVP candidate for single-handedly vaulting the rebuilding Sharks into the Western Conference playoff race. Celebrini's offensive excellence comes on a team that ranks 32nd in five-on-five expected goals, and it's enticing to imagine what he could do alongside Team Canada's cast of stars. Perhaps most importantly for Celebrini's case, he had a strong showing for Canada at the world championship in May, earning high praise from Sidney Crosby. It's hard to argue there's any better person to have in your corner.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Similarly to Bedard, questions persist about where Celebrini can slot into Canada's lineup. With no shortage of centers, Celebrini would likely have to move to the wing. He also doesn't kill penalties or have any big-game experience at the professional level. The 19-year-old is definitely skilled enough to represent Canada, but can he be trusted defensively? Although Celebrini has made positive strides in that department as a sophomore, there's no margin for error on a stage as big as the Olympics.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Even if it's as an extra forward, Celebrini's earned a spot. His two-way play has improved, and his game-breaking talent should outweigh his age in the evaluation process.</p><h3>Tom Wilson</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Wilson's on pace for a career year offensively with 32 points in 30 games this season. He's also reliable defensively and can kill penalties. With Bennett off to a slow start, Wilson is a strong candidate to fill the same role Bennett played at the 4 Nations Face-Off. There's no denying Wilson is difficult to play against, and he has Stanley Cup pedigree to boot. Canada is short on power forwards, and it's hard to argue there's a more effective option than Wilson at the moment.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Wilson has earned his reputation of being one of the NHL's most polarizing players. His blend of skill and physicality is rare, but he's been suspended six times in his career - usually for dangerous hits. Under IIHF officiating, Wilson will have an incredibly short disciplinary leash. Should he make the team and take a costly penalty, or even a suspension, Canadian fans are likely to be outraged at his selection.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Canada knows taking Wilson will be a risk, but role players are necessary for success at international tournaments. If Wilson stays out of trouble, he'll make a positive impact all over the ice.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m8nfM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m8nfM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/cropped_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w220xh124_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w320xh180_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w640xh360_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w768xh432_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Xavier Laine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Cole Caufield</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Caufield is a game-breaking talent. He scored 37 goals last season and is on pace for over 45 this year.<strong> </strong>He also has a knack for scoring in big spots, as he's the Montreal Canadiens' all-time leader in overtime winners. While the United States boasts a ton of talent, crunch-time scoring has often been its downfall at best-on-best tournaments. Taking someone who's routinely answered the bell in those spots would be wise.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Listed at 5-foot-8 and 175 pounds, Caufield is small. He's also not a great defensive player and doesn't contribute much if he's not scoring. Team USA general manager Bill Guerin made some questionable roster decisions for the 4 Nations Face-Off, but omitting Caufield was understandable considering how one-dimensional he is.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. Losing the 4 Nations by one goal isn't going to change Guerin's team-building philosophy. Plus, the U.S. has several other players who can produce similar levels of offense to Caufield but are bigger and contribute in other ways, such as Matthew Knies and Cutter Gauthier.</p><h3>Clayton Keller</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Team USA notably snubbed Keller from the 4 Nations roster, a decision that was amplified after he finished the 2024-25 campaign with a career-high 90 points. He's a shifty playmaker who could work great alongside one of America's snipers while also contributing to a power-play unit. Over the past three seasons, Keller ranks ninth among all players with 77 points on the man advantage.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Keller's production is down from last season, and he doesn't have the defensive prowess to be a shoo-in. He's not going to bump Jack Eichel or Auston Matthews down the depth chart and doesn't necessarily fit the mold of a bottom-six center.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. The USA has too many stronger options up front to find a spot for Keller. If he were having a more productive year offensively, it would be much tougher to pass on him.</p><h3>J.T. Miller</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/cropped_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 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><strong>Case for: </strong>Miller is extremely versatile, capable of playing center or wing on a scoring or checking line. He's also a veteran leader on what projects to be a young roster compared to Team Canada. Miller is amid a down season, but he's just two years removed from a 103-point campaign.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>At 32 years old, Miller has clearly lost a step, as he's on pace for a measly 51 points. His underlying numbers aren't great, either. Selecting him would be the exact type of mistake the U.S. has made in past best-on-best tournaments, such as taking Brock Nelson for the 4 Nations.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Both Guerin and head coach Mike Sullivan will value Miller's leadership. Sullivan, of course, is Miller's coach with the New York Rangers, and he gave him the captaincy this season for a reason.</p><h3>Jason Robertson</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Robertson admitted that his desire to represent his country at the 4 Nations Face-Off was a distraction during his early struggles last season, and he's responded impressively to being left off the roster. Since the tournament ended in late February, Robertson ranks fourth across the NHL with 34 goals and sixth with 68 points in 58 games. He's on pace for 103 points this season and is defensively responsible enough to be trusted on any line.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>The Americans are incredibly deep at left wing. Brady Tkachuk, Jack Hughes, and Matt Boldy - who plays for Guerin in Minnesota - all slotted ahead of Robertson in our latest roster projection. Does Team USA envision Robertson filling a fourth-line role?</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. With veterans like Nelson and Chris Kreider - both of whom made the 4 Nations squad - likely out of the picture this time around, there's certainly room for Robertson. He's tied for third in the NHL with 19 goals this season, and it would make little sense for the USA to omit the hot hand with so much pressure riding on this tournament.</p>

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The Toronto Blue Jays are among several teams interested in signing free-agent closer Robert Suar...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays are among several teams interested in signing free-agent closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13691" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13691">Robert Suarez</a>, reports <a href="https://fansided.com/mlb/mlb-winter-meetings-notebook-schwarber-blue-jays-angels-robert-suarez">Fansided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are also potential suitors for Suarez, Murray notes.</p><p>Suarez, 34, is one of the top relievers available on the open market this winter. He's been an All-Star the past two years with the San Diego Padres, and led the National League with 40 saves in 2025. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>High-leverage relief is a need for the Blue Jays after an inconsistent first season in Toronto for closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a>. GM Ross Atkins said last month that moving Hoffman out of the closer's role in 2026 could be an option. </p><p>Toronto has been active early in the offseason after losing Game 7 of the World Series. The Blue Jays signed starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a> to a seven-year, $210-million deal, and have reportedly shown interest in relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11728" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11728">Pete Fairbanks</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5723">Edwin Diaz</a>.</p><p>The Blue Jays are also reportedly in the mix for free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, and may re-sign homegrown star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>.</p>

Chicago, Illinois - October 2, 2025: Robert Suarez #75 of the San Diego Padres gets out of the sixth inning against the Chicago Cubs during Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field on October 2, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Washington Capitals rookie Ryan Leonard exited Friday's contest against the Anaheim Ducks in the ...

<p>Washington Capitals rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13827">Ryan Leonard</a> exited Friday's contest against the Anaheim Ducks in the first period after a massive hit from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2912" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2912">Jacob Trouba</a> behind the net. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ryan Leonard leaves for the dressing room after taking a blindside hit from Jacob Trouba. <a href="https://t.co/UACbHsY1Zw">pic.twitter.com/UACbHsY1Zw</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1997152687448572283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Leonard left the ice under his own power but was officially ruled out with an upper-body injury before the start of the third period. </p><p>Trouba was initially assessed a penalty but it was rescinded upon review. The rearguard has a lengthy history of controversial hits throughout his 13-year career and has been suspended twice.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trouba entered the contest with 13 points in 27 games this season while averaging nearly 22 minutes per night. </p><p>Leonard's notched 18 points in 28 games to start his first full NHL campaign. The 20-year-old had a career-best four-point outing in his previous contest.</p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 30: Ryan Leonard #9 of the Washington Capitals looks on during the game against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on November 30, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

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Sean O'Leary

News Editor

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Tom Ruminski

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