NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 8, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
Heritage Classic and Season Openers
The NHL Heritage Classic returns after a three-year break, with the Jets and Canadiens unveiling new jerseys for the outdoor showcase. Across the league, Ovechkin's final home opener drew attention, with his sons introducing him in a family affair at Capital One Arena. CBS Sports previewed the matchup pitting Ovechkin against Sidney Crosby as the Penguins visit Washington.
Thursday's Slate
ESPN's previews for all 10 games run from six 7 p.m. matchups through the Maple Leafs and Golden Knights. CBS Sports also flagged its best bets for the night's biggest games.
Injuries and Lineup Changes
The Islanders confirmed that defenseman Alexander Romanov is out six to eight months with a torn ACL. Panthers forward Brad Marchand exited a win with a left leg injury just two days after returning from absence. Utah's Mikhail Sergachev also left Tuesday's 5-3 win over New Jersey after taking a puck to the helmet.
Trades and Rookies
The Penguins sent Hallander to Edmonton in exchange for defenseman Spencer Stastney. No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna scored his first NHL goal for Toronto, adding an assist in the process. Detroit's Dylan Larkin scored in his season debut for the Red Wings, turning boos into cheers after a trade request.
Ovechkin Effect and Player Rankings
Ovechkin's retirement announcement has pushed ticket prices sharply higher across the league. ESPN's latest ranking of the top 100 players has Connor McDavid still at No. 1, while team executives weighed in on which rankings were too high or too low.