NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: June 16, 2026, 2:52 AM ET

Coaching Carousel

The PWHL's Las Vegas expansion team named Kim Weiss as its inaugural head coach, promoting the former AHL assistant after two seasons developing prospects in the minors. Meanwhile, the NHL opened an investigation into Mike Babcock's September 2023 resignation from Columbus before he coached a game, examining circumstances around the abrupt departure. John Tortorella left his future uncertain with the Golden Knights after their Stanley Cup Final loss, declining to commit to returning despite being under contract.

Stanley Cup Aftermath

Carolina's championship run validated their patience after years of playoff disappointments, culminating in a decisive series victory that rewarded organizational continuity. The Hurricanes opened as +700 favorites for the 2027 Stanley Cup, edging out Colorado (+800) and Vegas (+850) in early odds that reflect their current roster strength. Goaltenders Frederik Andersen and Brandon Bussi praised each other's performance after sharing the Cup celebration, with the 36-year-old Andersen gracefully transitioning to backup role while Bussi seized the starting job mid-series.

Draft Preview

Buffalo will host the 2026 NHL draft on June 26-27, featuring 224 selections that will reshape team pipelines ahead of next season's competition. The two-day event marks the league's first return to the city since 2016, with draft order implications extending through the first round as teams evaluate prospects following the recent playoff outcomes.