Last updated: March 19, 2026, 12:30 AM ET
NHL Playoff Picture & Star Returns
The race for the final Eastern Conference playoff spot intensified as the Hurricanes prevailed in OT against the Penguins despite a strong showing from Sidney Crosby, who tallied a goal and an assist in his return after a 11-game absence. Crosby’s immediate impact, however, was not enough to secure the victory, as Carolina’s Sean Walker sealed the outcome with a goal 28.3 seconds left in the extra period, keeping Pittsburgh firmly in the chase against Carolina heading into their Wednesday matchup. Meanwhile, off the ice, the Islanders secured a key piece for the future, as top prospect Cole Eiserman signed his three-year entry-level contract following his record-setting goal-scoring tenure with the U.S. National Team Development Program.
Prospect Contracts & Hall of Fame Decisions
In organizational news, the Islanders officially inked Eiserman, the 20th overall selection in the 2024 draft, signaling confidence in the forward's immediate development trajectory. Separately, the Hockey Hall of Fame declined a request regarding Jack Hughes’ gold-medal-winning puck from the Milan Cortina Olympics, stating the memorabilia was "not his to own," providing clarity on the institution's policies regarding international achievements involving active players.