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NHL Hockey 8 Hours

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6 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: September 24, 2026, 10:47 PM ET

Oilers & Canadiens

Oilers forward Zach Hyman shared insights on team culture, stating that team captain Mark Messier is welcome to visit and observe the "positivity" under new head coach André Boucher. The exchange comes one day after Messier publicly expressed being "horrified" by the Oilers' hiring decision, creating a notable narrative around locker room dynamics as the team looks to build momentum.

Penguins Roster Moves

Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko is taking a leave of absence from the team after a tragic incident involving his father. According to reports, Kuzmenko's father was killed by a bear during a fishing trip, prompting the organization to grant the player time away from the lineup. The team has not announced a return timeline, but Kuzmenko's absence creates a roster hole in the forward group during a critical stretch of the season.

NHL Draft Projections

ESPN's fantasy hockey analysts projected the first 20 picks for the upcoming draft, outlining how every selection should unfold in the first two rounds of a 10-team format. The board sets expectations for early-round talent distribution, with particular attention on positional needs and developmental upside across the league's future core groups.

Fantilli Contract Extension

The Columbus Blue Jackets re-signed center Adam Fantilli to a six-year, $82.5 million contract, making him the franchise's highest-paid player. The extension secures the young center's long-term future in Columbus and represents a significant investment in the team's core locking up a player who has shown immediate impact since entering the league.

Leap-Forward Candidates

Analysts project heightened performance levels for a dozen players entering the 2026-27 season, identifying those poised for breakout campaigns or potential regression. The list includes high-profile names like Michkov and Misa, who are expected to take significant steps in their development.

Bold Team Predictions

ESPN issued bold predictions for all 32 NHL teams, covering everything from playoff races to individual awards. Notable calls include Dylan Larkin staying put with Detroit and surprise contender narratives that could reshape the league's competitive landscape as the season progresses.