NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: September 25, 2026, 6:23 AM ET

NHL Player News

Trevor Zegras was penalized for an equipment violation after tucking in his jersey during a recent game, drawing attention to the NHL’s strict uniform enforcement. Meanwhile, Andrei Kuzmenko has taken leave from the Penguins following the tragic death of his father in a bear attack while on a fishing trip, prompting an outpouring of support from teammates and fans across the league.

Oilers Leadership Reaction

Connor Hyman welcomed Mark Messier to observe the Oilers’ progress under head coach Mike Babcock, extending an invitation despite Messier’s public criticism of the hiring decision. Messier had previously stated he was horrified by Edmonton’s choice to hire Babcock, citing concerns over the coach’s past conduct and its impact on team culture.

Contract Moves and Fantasy Outlook

Adam Fantilli secured a six-year, $82.5 million extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets, making him the franchise’s highest-paid player and signaling long-term confidence in his development as a cornerstone center. In related news, the Chicago Blackhawks signed Oliver Moore to a five-year deal worth $4.25 million annually, adding depth to their forward group as part of a broader rebuild strategy.

League-Wide Projections and Events

Analysts have identified several players as potential leap-forward or regression candidates for the 2026-27 season, including prospects like Ivan Michkov and veterans such as Anthony Mantha, based on performance trends and situational factors. The Premier Hockey League (PWHL) also announced it will host its inaugural All-Star Game next March in Toronto, marking a milestone for the women’s professional circuit as it seeks to grow visibility and fan engagement.

Fantasy Hockey Guidance

For fantasy managers drafting in deeper rounds, experts highlight late-round picks with breakout potential, noting that a single fortunate opportunity—such as increased ice time or power-play deployment—could elevate these players into valuable contributors. Additionally, projections for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft suggest a specific draft board for the first 20 picks in a 10-team fantasy league, offering strategic insight for early-round decision-making.

Stanley Cup Outlook

Evaluations of the league’s competitive landscape have placed all 32 teams into contender tiers ahead of the 2026-27 season, identifying traditional powerhouses and emerging threats based on roster composition, coaching stability, and recent performance. These rankings aim to clarify the hierarchy of teams vying for the Stanley Cup, with particular attention paid to franchise trajectories and playoff readiness.