NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: June 21, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Championship Celebrations and Retirements

Thousands of Hurricanes fans jammed the streets of Raleigh to celebrate their Stanley Cup victory, a title run punctuated by Jordan Staal who earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as the postseason’s most valuable player. While the franchise savors its championship, the league says goodbye to two veteran skaters as Jonathan Toews, a three-time champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, officially announced his retirement. Joining him in departure is Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, who concluded his professional career at age 41 after a journey that saw him break into the NHL at 29 and represent his country on the Olympic stage.

Personnel Moves and Coaching Shifts

The Toronto Maple Leafs are acquiring Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a sign-and-trade maneuver designed to secure a top-tier offensive defenseman before he hits the free agent market. Analysts are weighing the trade risk as Toronto bets on the sustainability of his recent breakout season, while front offices across the league project further summer swaps ahead of the June 26 draft and the July 1 opening of free agency. Elsewhere, the Washington Capitals secured their bench leadership by signing Spencer Carbery to a multiyear contract extension on Thursday.

League Governance and Injury Updates

Mike Babcock has been cleared to coach by the NHL following an internal investigation into his 2023 tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, a development that coincides with reported interest from the Edmonton Oilers. In medical news, the Anaheim Ducks expect a long recovery for forward Troy Terry, who faces 5-6 months of rehabilitation after undergoing surgery to address a hip impingement and a labral tear. Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins confirmed plans for a formal tribute next season where they will retire Patrice Bergeron's No. 37 jersey to the rafters.

Franchise Reputation

The Vegas Golden Knights continue to hold a polarizing status in the league, recently topping a fan poll as the NHL's most disliked franchise, or "No. 1 villain," despite maintaining one of the most successful winning records since their inception.