NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: June 20, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Front Office and Coaching Shifts

The Toronto Maple Leafs hired Jim Hiller as their new head coach, tasking him with steering the club following his tenure with the Los Angeles Kings, where he compiled a 93-58-24 record. In a move to stabilize their bench, the Golden Knights promoted Ryan Craig from their AHL affiliate to lead the NHL roster just one day after parting ways with John Tortorella. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals extended Spencer Carbery on a multiyear contract, signaling institutional confidence in his leadership. The league also cleared Mike Babcock to coach again, ending a period of uncertainty following an investigation into his 2023 stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets, which has reportedly piqued the interest of the Edmonton Oilers. Rounding out the administrative changes, the Nashville Predators hired Jamie Langenbrunner to serve as a special assistant to general manager Chris Mac Farland.

Trade Market and Roster Management

The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a sign-and-trade maneuver, effectively removing one of the most coveted offensive defensemen from the upcoming free agent market. Analysts are evaluating the Raddysh trade to determine if Toronto's valuation of his recent breakout season is sustainable, while league-wide summer trade season activity continues to intensify as general managers look to finalize rosters before the July 1 deadline. Beyond immediate swaps, front offices are projecting potential summer trades as the draft approaches, balancing the immediate need for talent against long-term salary cap flexibility. In a draft-day exchange, the Sabres sent Michael Kesselring and the 27th overall pick to the San Jose Sharks, successfully acquiring the 20th overall selection to shift their draft position.

Retirements and Legacy Honors

The hockey world bid farewell to several veterans this week, led by the retirement of Jonathan Toews, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist whose legacy remains defined by his leadership with the Chicago Blackhawks. Another veteran, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare announced his retirement at age, concluding a path that featured an unlikely ascent to the NHL at age 29 and a career that bridged European leagues and the highest levels of North American professional play. Honoring past icons, the Boston Bruins will retire Patrice Bergeron's No. 37 jersey during a ceremony next season, cementing his status as a foundational figure for the franchise.

Draft Prospects and Injury Updates

The Vancouver Goldeneyes selected Caroline Harvey first overall in the PWHL entry draft, tapping the standout NCAA defenseman and 2026 Olympic gold medalist to lead their defensive corps. This selection follows an analysis of top PWHL prospects that highlighted the depth of talent entering the professional ranks this season. On the injury front, the Ducks expect Troy Terry to miss 5-6 months after the forward underwent surgery to address a hip impingement and a labral tear. As teams look to fill gaps in their lineups, club executives are evaluating prospect pipeline needs to determine which positions to prioritize in the upcoming draft, ensuring their developmental systems align with their current contention windows.

League Development and Success

The Carolina Hurricanes captured the Stanley Cup in a campaign highlighted by Jordan Staal securing the Conn Smythe Trophy. While the league celebrates on-ice success, the Golden Knights face perceptions of being villains among the fanbase, a reputation that has grown alongside their status as one of the most successful franchises in professional hockey.