NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: September 17, 2026, 6:03 AM ET

Training Camp Fallout

The Winnipeg Jets suspended Connor Hellebuyck on Wednesday night after the star goaltender failed to report to training camp, a stunning development tied to his standing trade request. Hellebuyck, long the backbone of the Jets' crease, now faces an uncertain future as the organization weighs its options with the season approaching.

Injury Report

Detroit will be without Dylan Larkin to open camp, as the Red Wings announced the center will not skate after suffering an injury during off-ice training, leaving a significant hole down the middle. Buffalo forward Jason Zucker is expected to miss the start of the season following sports hernia surgery. On Long Island, Mathew Barzal, the Islanders' leading scorer last season, aggravated an injury and is now in doubt for the season opener.

Leadership and Farewells

Drew Doughty is the new captain of the Los Angeles Kings, stepping into the role vacated by the retired Anze Kopitar after years as the franchise's defining leader. Veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves called it a career at age, a retirement that leaves only three visor-less players remaining across the league.

Camp Curiosities

Colorado's Brent Burns arrived at camp having shaved his beard, shedding the trademark whiskers that had become part of his identity and drawing jokes that he looks like a rookie at. In Florida, captain Aleksander Barkov is taking nothing for granted as he returns, focused on leading the Panthers toward a third Stanley Cup rather than resting on past success.

Coaching and Front Office

Minnesota locked up its bench boss, with the Wild signing John Hynes to a multiyear contract extension. New Jersey made a notable hire, as the Devils are bringing in Jessica Campbell, the first woman to coach full time in the NHL, as manager in player development.

Expansion Watch

A 33rd NHL franchise could begin play in the coming seasons, with Austin or Houston emerging as candidates to host a Texas-based team. Players weighed in on the possibility, along with summer highlights and fan culture, in a superstar poll conducted at the NHL/NHLPA player media tour.

Fantasy Angles

With drafts underway, fantasy managers are hunting value between the pipes, and our goalie guide breaks down the top-tier starters, sleepers and timeshare situations worth targeting. On the blue line, there are defensemen to grab before their breakout seasons arrive, offering upside for those willing to draft ahead of the curve.