NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 6, 2026, 2:08 PM ET
Ovechkin Retirement Shakes the NHL
Alex Ovechkin announced espn.com Monday that this will be his final NHL season, ending a 20-year career with the Washington Capitals. The 39-year-old, who sits second on the all-time goals list, leaves a legacy that opponents and teammates alike describe as "nearly impossible" to stop, with top blueliners and goalies explaining espn.com the unique mechanics of his shot.
Marchand Returns; Celebrini, Ullmark Injured
Brad Marchand scored espn.com his first goal since Feb. 26 in his season debut for the Panthers, returning from surgery that sidelined him since March 6. Meanwhile, San Jose Sharks star Macklin Celebrini was scratched espn.com with a lower-body injury before the team’s 5-0 loss, while Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark exited espn.com after two periods at Boston following a collision.
Larkin Debuts; Odelein Dies at 58
Red Wings center Dylan Larkin, is expected espn.com to make his season debut Tuesday despite a recent trade request. The hockey world also mourned Lyle Odelein, a defenseman who won a Stanley Cup with the Canadiens, who has died espn.com at age.
Tuesday Night Preview: Rangers-Islanders
The Rangers-Islanders rivalry headlines espn.com a nine-game NHL slate Tuesday, with the Battle of New York taking center stage. The Yankees are staring cbssports.com at a sweep after ALDS Game 2 loss to the Rays, while the Falcons crushed the Saints on Monday Night Football. Bettors can find the top games cbssports.com and best odds for Monday’s action from Sports Line Pro.
Fantasy Hockey: Add Mac Kinnon’s Linemate
Fantasy managers looking for a boost should target espn.com Nathan Mac Kinnon’s linemate as a top add for the week ahead, along with streamers at forward, defense, and goalie. The Sharks-Stars matchup highlighted espn.com Monday’s four-game calendar.
NHL Rank: McDavid Remains No. 1 for 2026-27
Connor McDavid tops espn.com the NHL’s projected player rankings for the 2026-27 season, with the full top-100 list revealing the league’s best talent over the next two years.