NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing

Last updated: March 12, 2026, 9:52 AM ET

League Developments

Updated playoff projections preview a potential Finals clash between the Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers, positioning both as the Western Conference's elite. Meanwhile, the PWHL's Ottawa team pursues a shared arena deal with the NHL's Senators after its current venue downsizes for renovation, a move critical to the league's franchise stability.

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Forward Nick Schmaltz locked in a $64M extension with the Utah Mammoth, an eight-year deal averaging $8 million annually that secures the playmaker before unrestricted free agency this summer.