NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×NHL Honors & Updates
The U.S. men's hockey team received a bipartisan standing ovation during President Trump's State of the Union address after visiting the White House. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck, a key figure in the gold-medal victory, was announced as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken solidified their roster with contract extensions for forwards Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton Kraken extensions.
Player Returns & Injuries
Penguins captain Aleksander Barkov targets a season debut soon after recovering from September knee surgery Barkov season debut. Forward Mikko Rantanen faces an extended absence for the Dallas Stars following an Olympic injury Rantanen out weeks. Defenseman Brett Kulak was traded to the NHL-best Colorado Avalanche in a deal involving Samuel Girard and a 2028 pick Kulak traded to Avalanche.
Team Moves & Context
The U.S. Olympic team's White House visit and the Hughes brothers' response to Trump's comments about the women's team highlighted ongoing NHL-related discussions Hughes brothers backlash. As the regular season concludes, the playoff picture remains fluid NHL playoff picture.