NHL Hockey 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: September 30, 2026, 10:14 PM ET
NHL Opening Night Highlights
The Hurricanes lifted their 2023 Stanley Cup banner before falling to the Panthers in overtime, as Florida won the playoff-style opener 4-3 with Carter Verhaeghe scoring the OT winner. Gustav Forsling recorded an assist for Carolina in the loss.
Maple Leafs Rookie Debut
No. 1 overall pick Gavin McKenna, made his NHL debut Tuesday night but couldn't prevent Toronto's loss, as the Maple Leafs fell 3-2 to the Canadiens. McKenna logged 12:18 of ice time with one shot on net.
Avalanche Secure Coach Long-Term
After facing uncertainty about his future, Jared Bednar has been locked in through the 2030-31 season, as the Avs signed their head coach to an eight-year extension ending speculation about his return.
Stars Bolster Goalie Depth
Dallas added stability to its netminding situation by securing its backup goaltender, as the Stars signed Casey DeSmith to a two-year, $5 million contract extension through 2026-27.
Golden Knights Retain Center
Vegas kept one of its offensive pillars intact by re-signing its longtime center, as the Knights agreed to a two-year, $13.5 million extension with William Karlsson through the 2026-27 season.
Leafs-Jackets Trade Analysis
Toronto and Columbus exchanged high-powered wings just before opening night, with early returns favoring one side, as analysts graded the Marchenko-Knies deal, noting Mitch Marchenko's offensive upside versus Cole Sillinger's defensive reliability.
Arizona State Coach on Leave
The Sun Devils' hockey program faces uncertainty after its head coach was suspended, as Arizona State placed Greg Powers on paid administrative leave following a player collapse during a team workout, triggering an institutional review.