NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 18, 2026, 1:30 AM ET
Western Conference Playoff Picture
The Edmonton Oilers face major uncertainty as star center Leon Draisaitl, who amassed 97 points through 65 games, is projected to miss the remainder of the regular season following a lower-body injury sustained Sunday. This absence drastically alters Edmonton's immediate outlook as teams jostle for positioning, with the San Jose Sharks still possessing long-shot possibilities for both a wild card spot and the Pacific Division title, according to current playoff projections and draft lottery standings analyses.
Player Milestones & Hall of Fame
Separately, U.S. forward Jack Hughes revealed his desire to reclaim the overtime puck from his gold-medal-winning goal at the Winter Games, which is currently on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. Hughes is seeking the artifact despite its current prestigious placement, providing a personal narrative amidst the final stretch of the NHL regular season contests.