Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl returned from long-term injured reserve in Game 1 agains...

<p>Edmonton Oilers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> returned from long-term injured reserve in Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday.</p><p>He missed the final 14 contests of the regular season with a lower-body injury.</p><p>Draisaitl, who's been out since March 15, had been coy on his playoff status. Edmonton head coach Kris Knoblauch said in early April that he expected Draisaitl to be ready "sometime" in Round 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Oilers went 8-4-2 with Draisaitl sidelined, earning second place in the Pacific Division and home-ice advantage for the first round.</p><p>Draisaitl finished the season with 97 points in 65 games. He leads all players with 41 playoff goals since 2022, and has been instrumental in helping the Oilers reach back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals in 2024 and 2025.</p><p>"He has an ability to raise his game to a whole other level," captain Connor McDavid said Sunday, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/oilers-notebook-leon-draisaitl-appears-ready-for-game-1-return/">Sportsnet's Mark Spector</a>. "We see that time and time again in the playoffs, a guy who battles through anything."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 23: Oilers center Leon Draisaitl (29) celebrates after his first period goal during the Edmonton Oilers versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on February 23, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C..

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Draisaitl returns from LTIR in Game 1 vs. Ducks

Draymond Green revealed Monday that he believes Steve Kerr's time as head coach with the Golden S...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> revealed Monday that he believes Steve Kerr's time as head coach with the Golden State Warriors is coming to a close.</p><p>"I've never been so uncertain, since early in my career, on what happens next," the veteran forward shared on "<a href="https://x.com/DraymondShow/status/2046262708228526298?s=20">The Draymond Green Show</a>." "But I'm truly at a loss now, because you just don't know what direction will be what. Steph, myself, and Steve shared a moment in what could be our last time playing with Steve as our coach. I'm happy we got to share that moment, and he didn't miss the moment. It was a big deal. I hope he's our coach next year."</p><p>Green added, "If you want my opinion, I think not. Just because it just feels like that. It felt that was it. I also hope I'm on this team next year - we also don't know that. And man, if it was, what a run it's been. So lucky for 12 years to have Steve as my coach. We shall see."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Warriors were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the play-in tournament last week, marking the end of Kerr's contract with the club. Kerr <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3525500" href="https://thescore.com/news/3525500">said</a> after the loss that he would take time to evaluate his future and that all coaching jobs have an "expiration date."</p><p>Kerr has coached the Warriors for 12 seasons, leading them to four NBA titles. He owns a 604-353 record with the club and won Coach of the Year in 2016 after Golden State set a league record with 73 wins.</p><p>Green could also potentially become a free agent this offseason. The 36-year-old holds a $27.7-million player option for the 2026-27 campaign.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 17: Draymond Green #23 (R) of the Golden State Warriors stands with head coach Steve Kerr during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 17, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Warriors 111-96.

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Draymond: 'Feels like' the end of Kerr's run with Warriors

Juraj Slafkovsky's hat-trick performance in Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning was predictabl...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12706" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12706">Juraj </a><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left"><a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12706" target="_blank">Slafkovsky</a>'s</span> hat-trick performance in Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning was predictably the talk of the Montreal Canadiens' dressing room on Sunday, and no one was surprised to see the 22-year-old deliver on the biggest stage.</p><p>"We know what he's capable of bringing, and he brought it tonight," head coach Martin St. Louis said, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/canadiens-slafkovsky-lives-up-to-reputation-as-big-game-player-in-game-1-win/">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>. "Not just his goals; he was physical, he won his battles, he was annoying. It was a big game for him."</p><p>Slafkovsky scored three power-play goals, including the overtime winner, fired seven shots on goal, and threw two hits in 21:10 of ice time in Sunday's contest. His impressive playoff showing aligned with a breakout regular season, during which he set career highs with 30 goals and 73 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's evolved into a pivotal contributor on Montreal's top line with captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a> and 50-goal scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a>, but teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3044" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3044">Josh Anderson</a> said he believes Slafkovsky's role flies under the radar.</p><p>"He's a power forward. Big guy that's hard to stop," said Anderson. "And you'd think that Nick and Cole make him better, but he makes them better, too. Obviously, he's a huge-time player for us. He's got a lot of confidence, a lot of swagger, and I just love his game."</p><p>Drafted first overall by the Canadiens in 2022, Slafkovsky is in the first season of an eight-year contract worth $7.6-million annually.</p>

RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 01: Left Wing Juraj Slafkovsky (20) of the Montreal Canadiens fist bumps teammates to celebrate scoring during the NHL game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Carolina Hurricanes on January 1, 2026 at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Habs laud Slafkovsky's playoff breakout: 'We know what he's capable of'

Connor McDavid wrapped up his pursuit of a sixth Art Ross Trophy with a four-point performance in...

<p>Connor McDavid wrapped up his pursuit of a sixth Art Ross Trophy with a four-point performance in Thursday's season finale against the Vancouver Canucks, ending his campaign with a league-leading 138 points.</p><p>McDavid joins Wayne Gretzky (10), Gordie Howe (6), and Mario Lemieux (6) as the only players in NHL history to win six scoring titles. McDavid joins the illustrious group in his 11th year in the league.</p><p>His 138 points are the second-most of his career, trailing only the 153 points he produced in 2022-23.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's a look at how the scoring race finished: </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>Edmonton Oilers</td>
<td>138</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikita Kucherov</td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
<td>130</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan MacKinnon</td>
<td>Colorado Avalanche</td>
<td>127</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>San Jose Sharks</td>
<td>115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Scheifele</td>
<td>Winnipeg Jets</td>
<td>103</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>This year's goal-scoring crown belongs to MacKinnon, who adds a "Rocket" Richard to a resume that also includes a Hart, Calder Trophy, and Stanley Cup.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Goals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nathan MacKinnon</td>
<td>Colorado Avalanche</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cole Caufield</td>
<td>Montreal Canadiens</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>Edmonton Oilers</td>
<td> 48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>San Jose Sharks</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Robertson</td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kirill Kaprizov</td>
<td>Minnesota Wild</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wyatt Johnston</td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>His 53 tallies are a career high.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 10: Nathan MacKinnon #29 of the Colorado Avalanche skates against Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers at Ball Arena on March 10, 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

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McDavid wins 6th Art Ross, MacKinnon claims 'Rocket' Richard

The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Vancouver Canucks 6-1 on the final day of the regular season to ...

<p>The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Vancouver Canucks 6-1 on the final day of the regular season to lock in a first-round series at home against the Anaheim Ducks.</p><p>By virtue of the Ducks beating the Nashville Predators 5-4, the Los Angeles Kings make the playoffs as the West's second wild-card team and will face the Colorado Avalanche.</p><p>Shortly after the conclusion of Canucks-Oilers, the Kings also lost their season finale 3-1 to the Calgary Flames.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The entire Western Conference bracket is now set.</p><ul>
<li>Colorado Avalanche (C1) vs. Los Angeles Kings (WC2)</li>
<li>Dallas Stars (C2) vs. Minnesota Wild (C3)</li>
<li>Vegas Golden Knights (P1) vs. Utah Mammoth (WC1)</li>
<li>Edmonton Oilers (P2) vs. Anaheim Ducks (P3)</li>
</ul><p>The Oilers and Ducks last met in the playoffs in 2017, the first time <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> made the postseason. Anaheim snapped a seven-year playoff drought this spring in the club's first season under head coach Joel Quenneville.</p><p>The Kings and Avalanche haven't met in the postseason since the 2001 and 2002 campaigns. Both series went seven games with the Avalanche winning both.</p><p>The Eastern Conference bracket had already been settled.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">YOUR 2026 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STANLEYCUP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STANLEYCUP</a> PLAYOFFS BRACKET IS HERE 🔒<br><br>📺: The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StanleyCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StanleyCup</a> Playoffs begin SATURDAY on <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL_On_TNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHL_On_TNT</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sportsnet</a>, &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/TVASports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TVASports</a> <a href="https://t.co/N4wSW1bhSl">pic.twitter.com/N4wSW1bhSl</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2044985824337359302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 2026 postseason begins Saturday. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 13: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers celebrates with teammates Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93, Evan Bouchard #2, Mattias Ekholm #14, and Zach Hyman #18 after scoring against against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena on December 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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West playoff series set as Oilers get Ducks, Avs to face Kings

The New Jersey Devils hired Sunny Mehta as their general manager, the team announced Thursday.  M...

<p>The New Jersey Devils hired Sunny Mehta as their general manager, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Mehta spent the past six seasons with the Florida Panthers, including the last three as assistant general manager and head of analytics. The Panthers represented the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Final the past three seasons, winning twice.</p><p>Mehta is a New Jersey native who worked with the Devils as an analyst from 2014-18.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This is a dream come true for a New Jersey kid, who grew up watching Devils practices just 20 minutes away in Totowa," Mehta said in a statement.</p><p>He added, "New Jersey has a tremendous young core that will be looking to get back to being a contender, a complement of young assets and draft picks, and a passionate fan base hungry for success. I was fortunate enough to watch the New Jersey Devils raise three Stanley Cups and am excited to get to work to return to that level."</p><p>The Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly got permission to interview Mehta for their respective GM vacancies earlier in April. New Jersey, which failed to reach the playoffs, fired former general manager Tom Fitzgerald on April 6.</p><p>After dismissing Fitzgerald, the team told head coach Sheldon Keefe that his status will be evaluated at the conclusion of the regular season.</p><p>The Devils went 42-37-3 this season after making the playoffs as the third seed in the Metropolitan Division last year.</p><p>New Jersey doesn't have any core players on expiring contracts this summer and has over $13 million in projected cap space, according to <a href="http://puckpedia.com/team/new-jersey-devils">PuckPedia</a>. Captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6426" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6426">Nico Hischier</a> is eligible for an extension as of July 1. He's currently under contract through 2027.</p>

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - JUNE 24: Sunny Mehta and Bryan McCabe of the Florida Panthers celebrate their Stanley Cup victory in Game Seven of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 24, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Devils hire Sunny Mehta as GM

LIV Golf's immediate future is uncertain with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund on the verg...

<p>LIV Golf's immediate future is uncertain with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund on the verge of pulling its funding for the league, sources told <a href="https://www.wsj.com/sports/golf/liv-golf-saudi-funding-e7c19130?mod=author_content_page_1_pos_1">Andrew Beaton of the Wall Street Journal</a>.</p><p>The PIF's total investment in LIV reached $5.3 billion earlier this year, per <a href="https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/liv/2026/04/15/liv-golfs-saudi-pif-investment-reached-5-billion-in-2026/89627349007/">Golfweek's Adam Schupak</a>.</p><p>LIV's tournament in Mexico City, scheduled to begin Thursday, is expected to go ahead as planned. It's the sixth of 14 events scheduled this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>LIV Golf is in its fifth year after poaching prominent PGA TOUR stars including <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/1308" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1308">Phil Mickelson</a>. <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> also joined LIV but separately announced earlier in 2026 that they'd committed to rejoining the PGA TOUR.</p><p>In February, LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil told the Financial Times that it would take the league 5-10 years to begin turning a profit, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7197088/2026/04/15/liv-golf-future-in-question/">The Athletic</a>.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - JUNE 29: A general view of LIV Golf signage is shown near the clubhouse on day three of LIV Golf Dallas at Maridoe Golf Club on June 29, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Report: Saudi PIF on verge of pulling LIV Golf's funding

Zach Werenski didn't fully agree with Rick Bowness' takedown of the Columbus Blue Jackets' collec...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5520" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5520">Zach Werenski</a> didn't fully agree with Rick Bowness' takedown of the Columbus Blue Jackets' collective pride following Tuesday's season finale, but the defenseman believes the club has a lot to learn after squandering a playoff spot with a miserable stretch run.</p><p>"I think guys do hate to lose," Werenski said Wednesday, per <a href="https://x.com/JacketsInsider/status/2044426418646397318?s=20">team reporter Jeff Svoboda</a>. "I think we need to learn how to win, and I definitely think he can help us with that."</p><p>Werenski <a href="https://x.com/JacketsInsider/status/2044425462047265077?s=20">added</a>, "With how the season ended, everyone has to take a good, hard look in the mirror and see where we can be better."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Blue Jackets lost 2-1 to the Washington Capitals on Tuesday, concluding their season with a 2-8-1 run after holding second place in the Metropolitan Division less than a month ago. The loss prompted a scathing postmortem from their head coach.</p><p>"These guys, they don't care," Bowness <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3523430" href="https://thescore.com/news/3523430">said</a>. "Losing is not important enough to them. It doesn't bother them. How can you go out and play like that? I should have done this about a month ago. But this is why we are where we are. This is why we're out of the playoffs. That kind of effort. You have to hate losing. I don't care if it's a meaningless game. I don't care. Show up and compete." </p><p>Bowness came out of retirement to take over the Blue Jackets midseason and guided the club to a 21-11-5 record after a 19-19-7 start under Dean Evason.</p><p>Bowness' contract only covered the duration of the 2025-26 season, but he vowed Tuesday to change the Blue Jackets' culture if he signs a new deal.</p><p>Columbus has now missed the playoffs six years in a row. Werenski led the Blue Jackets with 81 points in 75 games this season and is expected to be in the race for the Norris Trophy.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - NOVEMBER 8: Zach Werenski #8 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates during the first period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on November 8, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Werenski sees value in Bowness' tirade: 'We need to learn how to win'

The NBA will review LaMelo Ball's apparent trip on Bam Adebayo from Tuesday's play-in meeting bet...

<p>The NBA will review <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a>'s apparent trip on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> from Tuesday's play-in meeting between the Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/2044420104922996786?s=20">NBA TV's Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>The incident occurred in the second quarter. Ball pulled Adebayo's planted foot, causing the Heat forward to crash to the court.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bam Adebayo goes down after a collision with LaMelo Ball. <a href="https://t.co/j05gnfsBbK">pic.twitter.com/j05gnfsBbK</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2044207902651543589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Adebayo was ruled out for the remainder of the contest with a back injury. Charlotte won 127-126 in overtime, advancing to play the loser of Wednesday's game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Afterward, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3523377" href="https://thescore.com/news/3523377">said</a> the play was "dangerous" and Ball should have been thrown out of the game.</p><p>Ball apologized postgame and said he'd just been hit in the head. He was pivotal in Charlotte's victory, recording 30 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in nearly 40 minutes.</p><p>If the Hornets win their next game, they'll take on the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round of the playoffs.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NC - APRIL 14: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat during the 2026 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 14, 2026 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Report: NBA reviewing Ball's trip on Adebayo

Former Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving and Pittsburgh Penguins executive Jason...

<p>Former Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving and Pittsburgh Penguins executive Jason Spezza will lead Canada's management group at the 2026 IIHF World Championship, Hockey Canada announced Monday.</p><p>Penguins president of hockey operations and GM Kyle Dubas will also be on the staff along with Hockey Canada senior vice president Scott Salmond.</p><p>Treliving, who replaced Dubas in Toronto, was fired by the Maple Leafs on March 30 as the club plummeted down the standings in his third season at the helm. He's worked for Canada twice at the tournament and won gold in 2016.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Spezza is making his international management debut. He's been an assistant GM under Dubas in Pittsburgh the past three seasons. </p><p>Dubas has worked with Hockey Canada in past World Championships, the 4 Nations Face-Off, and the Olympics.</p><p>This year's World Championship runs May 15-31 in Switzerland. Canada didn't medal in the last two editions of the event.</p>

TORONTO, ON - May 29 - Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving speaks to media at the teams practice centre in Toronto May 29, 2025. Treliving was fairly mum on Mitch Marner's future with the team, saying "we'll have to see" what transpires in the days and weeks to come. Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star (Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Treliving, Spezza to lead Canada's management group at World Championship

New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick confirmed Monday's start against the Florida Panthers ...

<p>New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick confirmed Monday's start against the Florida Panthers was his last in the NHL.</p><p>"Obviously, the past few years, very lucky to be part of this organization and wear this jersey, but tonight will be my last game in the league," Quick told reporters before the game, including the <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/2043722129452003594">New York Post's Mollie Walker</a>. "You know, I'm looking forward to it. Very fortunate. Wife flew down with the kids. So they'll be here in attendance tonight. My parents will be here. So looking forward to this last one and try to get one more win here."</p><p>Quick made 14 saves in a 3-2 loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 40-year-old is in his 19th NHL season. He's spent the last three seasons with the Rangers after a brief stop with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2022-23 and 16 illustrious years with the Los Angeles Kings.</p><p>The Connecticut native was one of the league's top netminders in his prime and arguably built a Hall of Fame resume with three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe Trophy, and a second-team All-Star selection. In 2012, Quick authored one of the best playoff runs by a goalie in NHL history, leading the Kings to a title with a 16-4 record, .946 save percentage, and three shutouts.</p><p>Quick's posted a sub-.900 save percentage in the past two seasons but owns a lifetime .910 clip across 828 appearances. His 410 wins are the most ever by an American-born goaltender.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 04: Jonathan Quick #32 of the New York Rangers makes a pad save during the first period of the National Hockey League game between the Detroit Red Wings and the New York Rangers on April 4, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY.

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Quick makes final NHL start vs. Panthers

The Ottawa Senators opted to rest captain Brady Tkachuk for Sunday's clash with the New Jersey De...

<p>The Ottawa Senators opted to rest captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> for Sunday's clash with the New Jersey Devils, but head coach Travis Green expects the forward to return when the playoffs start next week, according to <a href="https://ottawacitizen.com/ottawa-senators/senators-brady-tkachuk-injury">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><p>Tkachuk exited Saturday's win over the New York Islanders with an undisclosed issue. After the game, Green said that Tkachuk "wasn't feeling well."</p><p>Ottawa also held out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9189" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9189">Tim Stutzle</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4794">Thomas Chabot</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> on Sunday after clinching a playoff spot. The Senators' postseason schedule and Round 1 opponent have yet to be determined, with the playoffs set to begin April 18.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tkachuk has recorded 59 points in 60 games this season. He missed 20 contests early in the campaign after thumb surgery.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - APRIL 07: Brady Tkachuk #7 of the Ottawa Senators takes a break during a stoppage in play against the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 7, 2026, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Senators expect Tkachuk to be ready for playoffs

Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby returned to action for Sunday's contest against the Was...

<p>Pittsburgh Penguins captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> returned to action for Sunday's contest against the Washington Capitals, potentially marking the last meeting between him and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>.</p><p>The two clubs played Saturday in Pittsburgh, but Crosby, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3872" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3872">Bryan Rust</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a> were held out of the Penguins' lineup and given day-to-day designations. All of them suited up Sunday.</p><p>The highly anticipated meeting between the Penguins and Capitals could be the final home game of Ovechkin's 21-year career. The NHL's all-time leading goal scorer is on an expiring contract and recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3517849" href="https://thescore.com/news/3517849">said</a> he'll decide in the summer whether he'll return next season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Washington needs a win to keep its slim playoff hopes alive. The Capitals enter Sunday's contest trailing the Philadelphia Flyers for third spot in the Metropolitan Division and conclude their regular season against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday.</p><p>If Washington climbs into third place, it would take on Pittsburgh in Round 1 for the fifth time of the Crosby-Ovechkin era. The Penguins have won three of those series, and the winner has gone on to claim the Stanley Cup each time the teams have met.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - MAY 01: Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins looks on alongside Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2018 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena on May 1, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. *** Local Caption ***

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Crosby returns for potential final meeting with Ovechkin

The Edmonton Oilers clinched a playoff spot Saturday by virtue of the Winnipeg Jets' loss to the ...

<p>The Edmonton Oilers clinched a playoff spot Saturday by virtue of the Winnipeg Jets' loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. </p><p>The berth extends the Oilers' postseason streak to seven years. They've reached back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals, but lost both to the Florida Panthers. </p><p>Edmonton lost to the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday but is still in contention to win the Pacific with two games left to play. It trails the Vegas Golden Knights by one point, while the Anaheim Ducks are two back of the top seed in the division with a game in hand on both teams. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Oilers have played strong down the stretch with a 7-4-1 record since superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> was injured March 15. The club is hopeful he'll be able to return for the first round of the playoffs, which begins April 18. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a>, predictably, has picked up the slack with his running mate unavailable, posting 10 goals and nine assists since Draisaitl was sidelined. </p><p>If the Oilers win the Pacific Division, they'll likely take on the Utah Mammoth in Round 1. Edmonton's two remaining games are against the first-place Colorado Avalanche, and last-place Vancouver Canucks. </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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Oilers book playoff spot for 7th straight season

The Ottawa Senators and Boston Bruins secured their berths in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Sa...

<p>The Ottawa Senators and Boston Bruins secured their berths in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Saturday after the Detroit Red Wings were mathematically eliminated with a loss to the New Jersey Devils.</p><p>The Senators qualified for the second season in a row after a seven-year drought. Ottawa lost to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round last spring.</p><p>The Bruins are back in the playoffs after finishing last in the Atlantic Division in 2024-25. Boston had made the postseason in eight successive seasons before last year's blip.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Red Wings, meanwhile, have now missed the playoffs 10 years in a row. Detroit was third in the Atlantic Division when the NHL paused for the Olympics in early February but has gone 8-11-3 since action resumed.</p><p>The Senators trended in the opposite direction, resurrecting their season with a 15-5-3 record since the break.</p><p>Ottawa and Boston will be wild-card seeds and are tied with 96 points and two games remaining. Their first-round matchups have yet to be determined and will likely come down to the wire, as the seeding atop the Eastern Conference is far from decided.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 21: David Pastrnak #88 of the Boston Bruins skates with the puck against Dylan Cozens #24 of the Ottawa Senators at the TD Garden on December 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Senators, Bruins clinch playoff spots with Red Wings' loss

Bryson DeChambeau missed the cut at the Masters after posting rounds of 76 and 74 in the opening ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a> missed the cut at the Masters after posting rounds of 76 and 74 in the opening two rounds.</p><p>DeChambeau was in position to make the cut, set at 4-over par, until he triple-bogeyed the 18th hole Friday. The LIV Golf star was among the favorites to win the green jacket in 2026 following T-6 and T-5 finishes over the last two years.</p><p>DeChambeau is the biggest name to miss the cut at this year's event, but a handful of other notables won't play this weekend either. Two-time Masters champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/363" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/363">Bubba Watson</a> finished Friday 5-over par alongside reigning U.S. Open and last week's winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/2217" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/2217">J.J. Spaun</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/5671" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/5671">Akshay Bhatia</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4894" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/4894">Robert MacIntyre</a> also missed the cut.</p><p>While some big names are out of the running early, the top of the Masters leaderboard is loaded with stars. Defending champion Rory McIlroy leads by six shots, with Patrick Reed, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, and Shane Lowry all lurking in the top-10.</p>

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 10: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States reacts on the 18th green during the second round of the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2026 in Augusta, Georgia.

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DeChambeau among notables to miss cut at Masters

Sidney Crosby has thought deeply about potentially playing Alex Ovechkin for the final time this ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> has thought deeply about potentially playing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> for the final time this weekend, as the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals are scheduled for a back-to-back.</p><p>Ovechkin's on an expiring contract and recently announced that he's still deciding whether he'll return for a 22nd NHL season.</p><p>"It's been on my mind quite a bit," Crosby told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7182671/2026/04/10/alex-ovechkin-retirement-sidney-crosby-nhl/">The Athletic's Josh Yohe</a>. "I've been thinking about him a lot because I know it's something that has got to be on his mind constantly right now. When you get to a certain age, it's the way it is. Every player is going to have to deal with it at some point."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Crosby added, "He's accomplished so much, and has had an amazing career. And I know that he still has an incredible passion for the game. That's obvious. It's definitely crossed my mind a lot lately, wondering what he's going to do, because you don't know what's going to happen."</p><p>Crosby and Ovechkin entered the NHL together during the 2005-06 season and quickly became the faces of the league. This weekend's games will be the 100th and 101st meetings between the future first-ballot Hall of Famers.</p><p>Crosby, who's under contract through 2027, can't picture playing in a league without his longtime counterpart.</p><p>"Oh man," Crosby said. "Yeah, it would be so weird if he's not around anymore. It would be weird, especially because we've (almost) always been in the same division. We see each other so often. We came into the league together. So, really, it's all we've ever known." </p><p>Ovechkin, meanwhile, said that competing against Crosby for the past two decades has helped fuel his career, which has included him becoming the NHL's all-time goals leader, a three-time MVP, and a Stanley Cup champion.</p><p>"It's history, what we have for 20 years, play against each other," Ovechkin said, per <a href="https://x.com/katieEadler/status/2042636144727179285?s=20">RMNB's Katie Adler</a>. "I think the whole situation around Ovi and Sid was big time. It gave me more, not pressure, but it gave me more to think about and, you know, get ready for it." </p><p>The Penguins and Capitals square off Saturday at 3 p.m. ET in Pittsburgh, then they'll play another matinee Sunday in D.C.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 08: Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) and Capitals left wing Alexander Alex Ovechkin (8) shake hands after a ceremonial puck drop before the Pittsburgh Penguins versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on November 8, 2024 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C..

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Crosby: Potential last game vs. Ovechkin 'been on my mind quite a bit'

The Utah Mammoth secured their first playoff berth on Thursday night by combination of defeating ...

<p>The Utah Mammoth secured their first playoff berth on Thursday night by combination of defeating the Nashville Predators 4-1 as well as the San Jose Sharks losing to the Anaheim Ducks.</p><p>The Arizona Coyotes relocated to Salt Lake City prior to last season. This is the franchise's first season with the Mammoth name. The Coyotes hadn't qualified for the playoffs since 2019-20.</p><p>The Mammoth are likely to finish as the top wild-card seed, which would create a matchup with the Pacific Division winner in Round 1. The Edmonton Oilers currently lead the Pacific with 90 points, but are only one clear of the Anaheim Ducks and two ahead of the Vegas Golden Knights. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Utah was in the playoff mix most of the year, but made a major splash at the trade deadline in March by acquiring defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3222" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3222">MacKenzie Weegar</a> from the Calgary Flames. The Mammoth also swung a blockbuster trade in the summer to add <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9219" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9219">JJ Peterka</a> and signed forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12746" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12746">Logan Cooley</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5629" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5629">Nick Schmaltz</a> to long-term extensions during the season.</p><p>The Mammoth lead the NHL with six different 20-goal scorers, and rank third in the Western Conference with 32 regulation wins this season. </p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - APRIL 9: Dylan Guenther #11 of the Utah Mammoth is congratulated by teamates Mikhail Sergachev #98 and Clayton Keller #9 after scoring against the Nashville Predators during the third period of their game at the Delta Center on April 9, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Mammoth clinch 1st playoff berth

The Colorado Avalanche clinched the 2025-26 Presidents' Trophy as the NHL's top regular-season te...

<p>The Colorado Avalanche clinched the 2025-26 Presidents' Trophy as the NHL's top regular-season team after defeating the Calgary Flames 2-1 on Thursday.</p><p>This is the fourth time the Avs have claimed the award as the regular-season leader in points and first since the pandemic-shortened 2020-21 campaign. Their four Presidents' Trophies are tied with the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers for the second most. The Detroit Red Wings top the list with six. </p><p>The Presidents' Trophy was introduced for the 1985-86 season, and only eight teams have ever won the Presidents' Trophy and the Stanley Cup in the same year. The 2013 Chicago Blackhawks are the most recent team to claim both. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Avalanche achieved the feat in 2000-01. </p><p>Colorado is up to 114 points and 52 wins with four games remaining. The club set franchise records in both points and wins in 2021-22 with 119 and 56, respectively.</p><p>The Avalanche are still waiting for their first-round playoff matchup to be confirmed. The Nashville Predators, Los Angeles Kings, Winnipeg Jets, and San Jose Sharks are all in the race to claim the second wild-card seed in the Western Conference. </p><p>Colorado has one series victory in three trips to the playoffs since winning the Stanley Cup in 2022. </p>

DENVER, COLORADO - APRIL 09: Nathan MacKinnon #29 and Gabriel Landeskog #92 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrate after a goal against the Calgary Flames in the first period at Ball Arena on April 9, 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

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Avalanche secure 4th Presidents' Trophy in franchise history

Montreal Canadiens sniper Cole Caufield notched his 50th goal of the season Thursday against the ...

<p>Montreal Canadiens sniper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a> notched his 50th goal of the season Thursday against the Tampa Bay Lightning, becoming the first Hab to hit the mark since Stephane Richer in 1989-90.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HE HAS DONE IT. COLE CAUFIELD SCORES HIS 50TH GOAL OF THE SEASON!!! 🚨🚨🚨 <a href="https://t.co/B217BPH7Bc">pic.twitter.com/B217BPH7Bc</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2042398784768868778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Caufield is only the seventh player in the Canadiens' storied history to score 50 in a season, joining Richer (twice), Pierre Larouche, Guy Lafleur (six times), Steve Shutt, Bernie Geoffrion, and Maurice Richard.</p><p>The milestone marker came in a crucial contest for the Canadiens, who leapfrogged the Lightning for second in the Atlantic Division after a 2-1 win. Caufield was named first star of the game and received a raucous ovation from the home crowd.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A lengthy standing ovation in Montreal as Cole Caufield is announced as the first star of the game! <a href="https://t.co/ge40KcasIW">pic.twitter.com/ge40KcasIW</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2042421702043267089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Caufield has been a key reason for the Canadiens' step forward this season. He leads the NHL with 12 game-winning goals, and none of his 50 tallies have been empty-netters.</p><p>Caufield is now one goal back of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> in the "Rocket" Richard race.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - APRIL 07: Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (13) waits for a face-off during the Florida Panthers versus the Montreal Canadiens game on April 07, 2026, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC

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Caufield becomes Habs' 1st 50-goal scorer in 36 years

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