NHL Hockey 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: October 4, 2026, 2:05 PM ET
Injury & Return News
Sabres forward Jiri Kulich celebrated espn.com his return from nearly a year of blood clot issues by scoring the game-winner. Meanwhile, Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, who missed all of 2025-26, was placed espn.com on long-term injured reserve after just two games. Red Wings center Dylan Larkin, amid a trade request, was booed espn.com by the home crowd before being placed on IR in a loss.
Investigations & Remembrances
Arizona State has hired espn.com former Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Scott Bales to lead a review of hockey player Collin Mayich’s collapse. Lyle Odelein, a defenseman who won a Stanley Cup with the Canadiens, has died espn.com at age.
Sunday’s Key Matchup
The NHL features five games on Sunday, with a key interconference matchup between the Mammoth and Rangers highlighting espn.com the slate.