NHL Hockey 8 Hours

Last updated: September 25, 2026, 2:25 PM ET

Goaltending & Contract News

The Carolina Hurricanes have extended goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov to a two-year contract carrying a $3.95 million AAV through 2028-29. In Columbus, the Blue Jackets made Adam Fantilli their highest-paid player with a six-year, $82.5 million extension. The Chicago Blackhawks also locked up a young forward, signing Oliver Moore to a five-year deal worth $4.25 million annually.

Player News & Storylines

Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko is taking a leave of absence after his father was killed by a bear on a fishing trip. Flyers forward Trevor Zegras received a rare equipment violation penalty for tucking in his jersey during a game. Oilers forward Zach Hyman invited Mark Messier to come see the "positivity" under new coach Mike Babcock, a day after Messier said he was "horrified" by the hiring.

Season Preview & Fantasy Hockey

Ahead of the 2026-27 season, ESPN’s panel has slotted all 32 teams into Stanley Cup contender tiers, identifying the top challengers. For fantasy managers, a printable cheat sheet is available listing the key names to target, along with an ultimate draft board projecting how the first 20 picks should unfold. A dozen players are also identified as leap-forward or regression candidates includes names like Matvei Michkov, Michael Misa, and Anthony Mantha. For lapsed fans, a comprehensive guide covers top teams, players, and storylines for the campaign. Bettors are flocking to the Hurricanes, Avalanche, and Panthers, with NHL betting storylines tracking where the money is going, including a crowded Hart Trophy favorite race.

PWHL

The PWHL will host its first All-Star Game next March in Toronto, marking a major milestone for the league.