NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: September 25, 2026, 2:24 PM ET

Hurricanes Extend Goaltender, Blue Jackets Lock Up Young Star

The Carolina Hurricanes signed goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov to a two-year extension through the 2028-29 season with a $3.95 million AAV. Columbus Blue Jackets center Adam Fantilli inked a six-year, $82.5 million deal, making him the highest-paid player in franchise history. The Chicago Blackhawks also made a significant investment, signing forward Oliver Moore to a five-year contract worth $4.25 million annually.

Zegras Penalized for Tucked Jersey, Kuzmenko Takes Leave

Philadelphia Flyers forward Trevor Zegras received a rare equipment violation penalty for tucking his jersey into his pants, a call that has drawn scrutiny from players and coaches. Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko is taking a temporary leave from the team following the tragic death of his father, who was killed by a black bear while on a fishing trip in Russia.

Oilers Response to Messier, PWHL All-Star Game Announced

Oilers forward Zach Hyman welcomed Mark Messier to come see the positivity in Edmonton under coach Mike Babcock, one day after Messier said he was "horrified" by the hiring. The PWHL will host its first-ever All-Star Game in Toronto next March, a milestone event for the growing league.

Fantasy Draft Prep, Lapsed Fan Guide

Fantasy hockey managers can consult a printable cheat sheet of the top players to know for the 2026-27 season. An ultimate draft board projects how the first 20 picks should play out in a standard 10-team league.

The NHL released a lapsed fan's guide covering top teams, players, and storylines to catch up on everything since June. Stanley Cup contender tiers rank all 32 teams into six groups heading into the new season.

Projections and Bold Predictions

A dozen players are identified as leap-forward and regression candidates for the 2026-27 campaign. Bold predictions for all 32 teams include a surprising Dylan Larkin destination and potential award contenders. NHL betting storylines highlight where the money is going, including popular futures bets on the Hurricanes, Avalanche, and Panthers.