NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 13, 2026, 5:56 AM ET
NHL Hockey
Injuries & Upsets
Mark Stone returned from a five-game upper-body injury to spark a dominant 6-2 victory for the Vegas Knights over Pittsburgh on Thursday. Meanwhile, Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews left the game against Anaheim after a knee-on-knee hit from Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas, raising immediate concerns about a potential knee injury. The contrasting outcomes highlight the fragility of star players and the physical toll of the NHL season.
League Discipline & Player Safety
The NHL rescinded the game misconduct imposed on Colorado Avalanche star Nathan Mac Kinnon for a hit on Edmonton Oilers winger Leon Draisaitl on Tuesday, a reversal the star player confirmed to The Denver Post. This decision contrasts sharply with the league's handling of Matthews' injury, underscoring ongoing debates about officiating consistency and player safety protocols in high-stakes games.
Team Ownership & Strategic Moves
Tom Dundon sold a portion of the Carolina Hurricanes to three new minority stakeholders, expanding his ownership group as the franchise seeks to solidify its financial foundation. Concurrently, the NHL released a playoff guide offering fantasy hockey strategies, lineup tips, and top picks to help managers navigate the upcoming postseason, reflecting the league's focus on fan engagement beyond the rink.
League Governance & Expansion
The NHL confirmed Ottawa Senators will not forfeit their 2026 first-round draft pick over their role in a canceled 2022 trade involving Evgenii Dadonov, clarifying a significant governance decision. Simultaneously, the Professional Women's Hockey League secured a national TV broadcast deal for its Detroit game, marking a major step in expanding women's professional hockey's visibility in the United States.
Playoff Outlook
The NHL released updated playoff projections, including Stanley Cup odds and draft lottery standings, positioning the Dallas Stars vs. Edmonton Oilers series as a potential early conference finals preview. These projections, coupled with the PWHL's TV push, signal a period of heightened focus on both established and emerging hockey markets as the postseason approaches.