NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: June 9, 2026, 11:51 PM ET

Coaching Carousel Continues

The Edmonton Oilers are finalizing a deal to appoint Mike Babcock as head coach, turning to the 63-year-old veteran who captured the Stanley Cup with Detroit in 2008 and ranks 12th in NHL career victories. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Kings confirmed Peter Laviolette's hiring as their new bench boss on Monday, completing a busy week of coaching changes across the league. Both appointments signal franchises betting on experience to navigate playoff contention windows.

Stanley Cup Final Drama

Carolina's goaltending situation shifted dramatically as the Hurricanes started Brandon Bussi in Game 4 against Vegas, pulling Frederik Andersen after the Golden Knights seized a 2-1 series lead. The goaltending change came amid reports that three Carolina defensemen have been juggling newborn responsibilities during the playoff run, highlighting the personal challenges facing the team's blue line. Vegas reclaimed favorite status at 2-1 up in the series, with oddsmakers installing them as slight favorites to capture their second championship in three years.

Free Agency & Trade Market

Minnesota addressed their forward depth by signing Michael McCarron to a six-year, $20 million contract extension, removing a potential unrestricted free agent from the market after his productive arrival via midseason trade. In a contrasting situation, Detroit captain Dylan Larkin submitted a trade request by providing a three-team list of desired destinations, potentially accelerating what could become one of the summer's biggest moves involving a franchise cornerstone.

Awards & Recognition

Colorado's Gabriel Landeskog captured two honors on Tuesday, winning both the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award and the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in recognition of his captaincy and perseverance through injury challenges. The dual recognition underscores Landeskog's influence on and off the ice despite the Avalanche's early playoff exit.

Arena Developments

Dallas moved closer to securing public funding for their proposed Plano arena project after the city council approved $700 million toward the estimated $1 billion development at The Shops of Willow Bend. The funding approval represents a significant milestone for the Stars' relocation plans, though the project still requires additional approvals before construction can begin.

PWHL Transaction Wire

Hilary Knight signed with the PWHL's Las Vegas expansion team on Tuesday, taking the first step in what sources indicate will become a sign-and-trade deal sending her to Detroit's upcoming franchise. The move reunites one of women's hockey's most recognizable stars with the Motor City market where she began her professional career, while simultaneously establishing the foundation for Las Vegas's inaugural roster.

Game Day Betting Markets

Sportsbooks offered extensive props for Tuesday's pivotal Game 4 matchup, with several operators promoting bonus incentives including Bet MGM's $1,500 bonus bet promotion and Draft Kings' $200 instant bonus for qualifying wagers on the Stanley Cup Final contest. The betting activity reflects the series' tight nature and the potential for significant line movement depending on Tuesday's outcome.