NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 17, 2026, 4:35 PM ET
Western Conference Playoff Picture & Injuries
The Edmonton Oilers face uncertainty as superstar forward Leon Draisaitl is highly likely to miss the remainder of the regular season after suffering a lower-body injury Sunday, a significant blow to a team currently holding 97 points through 65 games. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks remain mathematically relevant in the West, as playoff projections show the club still has a chance at securing either a wild card spot or a Pacific Division berth, despite lingering draft lottery positioning concerns. The results of these late-season races will determine which teams secure the final postseason slots and which face the draft lottery odds.
League Milestones & Future Events
Detroit's Patrick Kane reached a milestone by scoring twice in a decisive 5-2 victory over Calgary, moving him into sole possession of fourth place all-time among U.S.-born NHL goal scorers. Away from the current action, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman publicly addressed the potential inclusion of Russia in the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, stating that "time will tell" regarding the participation of the nation's contingent of NHL talent. In personnel news, the Chicago Blackhawks secured a prospect by signing Sacha Boisvert to a standard three-year entry-level contract, signaling a commitment to their pipeline development efforts.
International Hockey & Artifact Disputes
While future international tournaments remain under review, USA Hockey star Jack Hughes is seeking the return of the puck from his gold-medal-winning overtime goal at the Winter Games, currently displayed at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. This personal request contrasts with the league's ongoing deliberation over the participation status of Russian players in major upcoming international competitions like the 2028 World Cup.