NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: April 9, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

NHL Player Updates & Personnel Moves

The Western Conference race tightened as Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid delivered a dominant 5-point effort, including his 15th career hat trick, in a victory over the Sharks that propelled the Oilers into sole possession of the Pacific Division lead. Defensive news proved more concerning elsewhere; Senators defenseman Thomas Chabot returns just 17 days after breaking his arm, indicating a quick recovery for the blueliner, while the New Jersey Devils confirmed they are shutting down Luke Hughes to undergo an undisclosed procedure, raising questions about their defensive stability down the stretch. In goaltending news, the Toronto Maple Leafs suffered a blow when starter Anthony Stolarz was helped off the ice in the first period against the Capitals with a lower-body ailment, adding to the league's ongoing injury volatility.

Front Office & Prospect Signings

Organizational shifts continue across the league as Seattle Kraken president of hockey operations Ron Francis announced his departure effective at season's end, marking a significant change in the Pacific Northwest's management structure. Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins secured a promising future asset, locking up Beanpot MVP James Hagens to a three-year contract carrying a $975,000 annual cap hit, signaling the organization's confidence in the former Boston College forward.