NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 5, 2026, 2:20 PM ET
NHL Hockey
Ovechkin's Farewell & Legacy
Alex Ovechkin announced that this season will be his last in the NHL, with the Washington Capitals star set to retire at the end of 2025-26. Rival opponents and teammates explain why Ovechkin's shot is "nearly impossible" to stop, detailing the unique release and power that made him the league's all-time leading goal scorer.
Injury & Return Updates
The Florida Panthers received mixed news: Brad Marchand, back from surgery, scored his first goal since Feb. 26 in his season debut, but captain Aleksander Barkov was placed on long-term injured reserve after just two games. Meanwhile, Sabres forward Jiri Kulich returned from a blood clot issue that sidelined him nearly a year, scoring the game-winning goal in his comeback.
Red Wings Drama & Upcoming Slate
Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin was placed on IR amid a trade request, then booed by the home crowd before a loss. Tonight's four-game NHL calendar features Sharks-Stars as the marquee matchup. Sunday's five-game slate includes key divisional clashes.
In Memoriam
Lyle Odelein, the defenseman who won a Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1993, has died at age.