NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 12, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

NHL Playoff Action & Team Moves

The Colorado Avalanche secured a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Minnesota Wild Monday night, rebounding from midseries struggles to claim a crucial Game 4 victory, though the win was marred by an injury scare involving star Nathan Mac Kinnon, who skated off bleeding profusely after being struck in the face by a shot from teammate Devon Toews. The intensity boiled over when defenseman Josh Manson, returning from a five-game absence, was assessed a double minor penalty for striking Wild center Michael McCarron with the butt end of his stick, leading McCarron to later label Manson a 'dirty player'. Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Buffalo Sabres are reverting to Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen between the pipes for Tuesday’s Game 4 against Montreal, hoping to counter the Canadiens, who have reportedly found their offensive rhythm as they eye a potential 3-1 series advantage.

In off-ice organizational news, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas expressed a strong desire to retain longtime center Evgeni Malkin, stating publicly that he would "love" to have the veteran return for a 21st season in Pittsburgh. Contrasting this look toward the future, the Columbus Blue Jackets committed long-term to Charlie Coyle, signing the center to a six-year contract carrying an average annual value of $6 million, equating to a total commitment of $36 million. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes locked up forward Mark Jankowski on a two-year extension valued at $1.85 million per season for the 31-year-old forward, who plays a role on a Hurricanes team that remains undefeated this postseason, benefiting from players like 2018 Hart Trophy winner Taylor Hall, described as a critical component for the unbeaten Hurricanes.

League Administration & Legal Matters

The league continues to recognize community efforts, as the NHL officially announced the six finalists—three from the U.S. and three from Canada—for the prestigious Willie O'Ree Community Hero Award, with public voting now open until May 24 ahead of the June reveal. On a somber legal front, defense attorneys for the driver accused in the deaths of former NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew had their motion to dismiss charges denied, despite arguing discrepancies related to the reporting of the suspect's blood alcohol level. In unrelated sports news mentioned peripherally, the Lakers faced an uncertain future following a sweep by the Thunder, while the Pistons were similarly overwhelmed by a 'Cavalanche' in their own Game 4 matchup.