NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 8:51 AM ET

CONFERENCE FINALS OPEN IN DRAMATIC FASHION

The Golden Knights claimed Game 1 against the Avalanche 4-2 behind Dylan Coghlan's playoff debut goal and Carter Hart's 36-save performance, while Montreal routed the Hurricanes 4-2 with four first-period goals despite Carolina's 11-day layoff the longest since 1919. Colorado's absence of Cale Makar due to an upper-body injury was evident as the Avalanche struggled offensively, managing just two goals on 31 shots. The Canadiens' early surge exposed Carolina's defensive lapses with Jaccob Slavin acknowledging he "handed the game" to Montreal through a critical turnover.

INJURY UPDATES AND COACHING CHANGES

Colorado defenseman Cale Makar will miss Game 1 of the Western Conference finals after sitting out practice on the eve of the series, creating a trickle-down effect throughout the Avalanche lineup that struggled to generate consistent offensive pressure. Meanwhile, Ducks forward Troy Terry requires hip surgery that could endanger his availability for next season, potentially sidelining the 26-year-old scorer indefinitely. In coaching developments, the Buffalo Sabres rewarded Lindy Ruff with a two-year extension following their playoff return, while Vancouver fired coach Adam Foote after a 25-49-8 campaign that fell short of playoff contention.

OFFSEASON MOVES AND EXPANSION

The Washington Capitals re-signed defenseman Timothy Liljegren to a two-year, $6.5 million contract, bolstering their blue line depth as they continue their rebuild under new management. Sheldon Keefe will return as Devils coach after general manager Sunny Mehta completed his organizational assessment, maintaining continuity behind a core that narrowly missed the playoffs. The PWHL expanded to San Jose as the league's 12th team, marking its latest growth move following Montreal's dominant 4-0 championship victory over Ottawa that secured the Victoire's first title behind Abby Roque's two-goal performance.

PROSPECT WATCH AND INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION

Gavin McKenna's path to potential No. 1 overall selection continues through his development from Whitehorse, Yukon to Medicine Hat of the WHL, where scouts project him as the 2026 draft's premier talent. At the Ice Hockey World Championship, Canada claimed victory over Norway 6-5 on Mark Scheifele's three-goal performance including the game-winner, while the United States edged Germany in a shootout on Ryan Leonard's decisive penalty. These international performances provide scouting opportunities for NHL front offices tracking prospects ahead of next summer's draft cycle.