NHL Hockey 8 Hours

Last updated: September 28, 2026, 2:07 PM ET

NHL Season Preview

The NHL is leaning into hockey's surging cultural moment, drawing inspiration from the success of "Heated Rivalry" and "Off Campus" to broaden its fan base. For those who tuned out after June, the league has published a guide covering the top teams, players, and storylines for 2026-27. ESPN's full 1-32 rankings break down every club's strengths and weaknesses, while a separate contender tiers feature slots all 32 teams into six groups, asking whether Carolina can repeat as champions.

Sharks Name Youngest Captain

The San Jose Sharks have named Macklin Celebrini their captain, making the 20-year-old the youngest in NHL history to hold the role. Celebrini, the reigning Calder Trophy winner, becomes the face of a rebuilding franchise that finished near the bottom of the standings last season.

Hurricanes News

The Carolina Hurricanes extended goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov on a two-year deal carrying a $3.95 million average annual value, locking him up through 2028-29. The club is still hoping to sign holdout defenseman Alexander Nikishin, who remains unsigned as training camp approaches. Meanwhile, the team received its Stanley Cup rings at a Sunday function, with the jewelry featuring hidden details including a "Storm Surge" tribute.

Flyers, Islanders Notes

Flyers forward Trevor Zegras was assessed a rare penalty for "improperly wearing the equipment" after tucking his jersey into his pants during a preseason game. The Islanders have signed defenseman Logan Stanley to a one-year contract, adding size and physicality to their blue line ahead of the regular season.