NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 13, 2026, 6:42 PM ET
NHL Contract Moves
The San Jose Sharks secured forward Ty Dellandrea with a two-year, $3.25 million contract extension, locking up the 24-year-old center through the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes added three minority investors as owner Tom Dundon sold a portion of the franchise to new stakeholders, though financial terms weren't disclosed.
International Expansion
The Chicago Blackhawks and Ottawa Senators will play two games in Germany next season as part of the NHL's Global Series, marking the league's continued push into European markets. The specific dates and venues for the German games haven't been announced yet.
Injury Updates
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews suffered a knee injury after a hit from Anaheim's Radko Gudas during Thursday's game, with Matthews calling the play "dirty" and leaving the contest early. In positive injury news, Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone returned from a five-game absence and scored in Thursday's 6-2 win over Pittsburgh, helping the Knights snap a three-game losing streak.
Disciplinary Actions
Colorado Avalanche star Nathan Mac Kinnon had a game misconduct rescinded by the NHL after his Tuesday ejection against Edmonton, according to his comments to The Denver Post. The league's decision removes the automatic one-game suspension that would have accompanied the major penalty.
Playoff Picture
With the regular season winding down, ESPN's playoff projections show Edmonton's path taking shape as the Oilers jockey for positioning in the Western Conference. The projections also include updated Stanley Cup odds and potential first-round matchups for all 16 postseason qualifiers.
Fantasy Hockey Focus
As ESPN's fantasy hockey playoffs begin, analysts recommend pickups from every NHL team to help managers make championship pushes. The recommendations cover streamers, injury replacements, and potential breakout performers for the fantasy postseason.