NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 24, 2026, 11:52 PM ET

Stanley Cup Playoffs Update

The Western Conference finals shifted to Las Vegas with the Avalanche facing a daunting 0-2 deficit against the Golden Knights after dropping Game 2 by a 3-1 score. Colorado coach Jared Bednar lamented missed opportunities to extend their 1-0 lead, while the Knights welcomed back captain Mark Stone for Game, matching Colorado's return of star defenseman Cale Makar. As the series shifts, experts weigh in on the pivotal matchup, with many favoring the Avalanche to mount a comeback against Vegas. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference finals stands at 1-1 heading to Montreal after the Hurricanes and Canadiens split the first two games, setting up a critical Game 3 on home ice for Montreal.

International Hockey Championship

Canada continued its dominant run at the ice hockey world championship, defeating Slovakia 5-1 with captain Macklin Celebrini scoring and Sidney Crosby adding his seventh assist of the tournament. The Canadians improved to 5-0 with a 3-1 victory over Slovenia, showcasing impressive depth throughout their lineup. In a stunning upset, Latvia defeated the United States 4-2 with Sandis Vilmanis scoring two empty-net goals, dealing a blow to the defending champions who have now suffered three losses in the tournament.

Hockey Collectibles & Junior Hockey

An autographed 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card sold for a record $540,000 including buyer's premium in Fanatics Collect's May Premier Auction, setting a new benchmark for autographed hockey cards. In junior hockey action, the WHL-champion Everett Silvertips defeated the Chicoutimi Sagueneens 5-3 in their Memorial Cup opener, with right wing Jesse Heslop contributing a goal in what was a strong start to the prestigious tournament for the defending champions.