NHL Hockey 3d Briefing
×Last updated: March 13, 2026, 9:52 AM ET
NHL Injury Updates and Team News
The NHL saw significant injury developments across multiple teams, with Auston Matthews exiting espn.com Thursday's game against Anaheim after a knee-on-knee hit from Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas. Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe called the play "dirty," and Matthews is now considered day-to-day with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Mark Stone made his return espn.com for the Vegas Golden Knights after missing five games with an upper-body injury, helping his team defeat Pittsburgh 6-2 on Thursday night. The Avalanche also received positive news as the NHL rescinded Nathan MacKinnon's game misconduct espn.com from Tuesday's contest against Edmonton, though the team sharply criticized the initial ejection espn.com for goalie interference.
Trade Deadline Analysis and Team Moves
As the NHL trade deadline dust settles, analysts are examining which teams made the right moves. The Avalanche's acquisition strategy has sparked debate about whether they're now "unbeatable," while Eastern Conference contenders who stood pat are facing questions about missed opportunities. On the ownership front, Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon sold stakes espn.com to three new minority investors, though financial terms weren't disclosed. The Ottawa Senators also received good news as the NHL decided not to forfeit their 2026 first-round pick espn.com despite their involvement in a canceled 2022 trade between Vegas and Anaheim involving Evgenii Dadonov.
Contract Extensions and Future Planning
The Utah Mammoth secured their future by re-signing Nick Schmaltz to an eight-year, $64 million deal espn.com, keeping the forward from hitting free agency this summer. This long-term commitment reflects the team's confidence in Schmaltz's continued production and leadership. Off the ice, the Professional Women's Hockey League is making significant strides in visibility, with Detroit set to host a nationally televised game espn.com and the PWHL Detroit team exploring a potential partnership with the NHL's Senators to maintain their presence in Ottawa as their current venue undergoes renovations espn.com.
Playoff Picture and Fantasy Implications
With the fantasy hockey playoffs approaching, analysts are providing strategic guidance for championship runs. The Edmonton Oilers' postseason path is taking shape, with some projections suggesting their potential matchup against Dallas could be a conference finals preview espn.com. For fantasy managers, experts recommend specific pickups from each NHL team to bolster playoff rosters, while also offering tips on lineup strategy and timing for maximum impact. The Bruins continued their impressive home streak, with Charlie McAvoy scoring the OT winner espn.com against Los Angeles before rushing off for emergency dental work after losing multiple teeth in the physical contest.