Connor Hellebuyck’s decision to request a trade has changed the conversation surrounding his future in Winnipeg. As his priorities shift toward winning a Stanley Cup elsewhere, the Jets and their fans are left to navigate what his departure could mean for the franchise.

Zdeno Chara’s final game was a celebration of the people and moments that defined his career. Back in his hometown, he shared the ice with former teammates, NHL legends and his sons for one last memorable night.

Alex Nylander’s Calgary Flames PTO could be the opportunity that reignites his NHL career after a standout season with the Toronto Marlies. If he earns a roster spot, his scoring ability and competitive drive could give Calgary more offensive depth while creating a compelling comeback story for Flames fans.

Connor Hellebuyck has won nearly everything individually, but the Stanley Cup remains the one achievement missing from his résumé. With his future in Winnipeg uncertain, the Jets face growing pressure to prove they can give their star goaltender a legitimate chance to win it.

Overlooked because of his size and passed over in the draft, Martin St. Louis built an NHL career few saw coming. From an undrafted forward to a Stanley Cup champion and Hall of Famer, his journey is one of hockey’s best underdog stories.

As the 2026-27 NHL season approaches, several key players are working their way back from injuries that cut their previous seasons short. Their returns could reshape their teams’ seasons while giving each player a chance to rebuild confidence and find their rhythm again.

Elvis Merzlikins’ shoulder surgery creates an early question in net for the Columbus Blue Jackets as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. With no immediate timetable for his return, Columbus must prepare for the possibility of starting the season without its veteran goaltender.

The Bruins are heading to Munich for the 2027 NHL Global Series. With strong ties to Germany, Boston’s trip could mean more than just two games.

The New York Rangers went from winning the Presidents' Trophy in 2023-24 to finishing last in the Eastern Conference just two seasons later. Here's a look at what went wrong and whether their offseason retool can put them back on the path to contention.

With training camp approaching, several major questions remain unanswered across the NHL. From Brad Marchand’s recovery to the league’s remaining free agents and injured stars, these decisions could shape the start of the 2026-27 season.

The Detroit Red Wings enter 2026-27 under mounting pressure as a potential 11th straight playoff miss, front-office uncertainty and Dylan Larkin’s trade request put the franchise at a crossroads. With patience wearing thin, Detroit must prove this season that its long rebuild is finally moving in the right direction.

Trevor Zegras has already proven he can produce as Philadelphia’s top-line center, but one weakness could keep him from becoming a truly reliable No. 1 option. If Zegras can improve faceoff rate, he could take another major step toward becoming an all-situations center for the Flyers.

Anze Kopitar’s No. 11 will soon be retired by the Los Angeles Kings, cementing the legacy of one of the franchise’s greatest players. After 20 seasons and two Stanley Cups in Los Angeles, Kopitar will be honored with a retired number and bronze statue.

David Pastrňák continues to produce at an elite level, but the Bruins need more from the players around him to take the next step. With training camp approaching, Boston must prove its supporting cast is strong enough to turn Pastrňák’s production into another playoff run.

Brock Nelson’s first full season with the Colorado Avalanche delivered Olympic gold, 1,000 NHL games and another 30-goal campaign. Now, after a disappointing playoff exit, the veteran center enters 2026-27 chasing the one accomplishment still missing from his résumé: a Stanley Cup.

Jack Hughes has proven he can be one of the NHL’s most dynamic stars when healthy, but injuries have repeatedly interrupted his seasons. After a golden Olympic moment and a 77-point NHL campaign, can Hughes finally stay healthy for a full season?

Alexander Holtz enters the 2026-27 season with plenty to prove after struggling to establish himself as a consistent NHL scorer. With the Golden Knights, the former seventh-overall pick has another opportunity to turn his offensive talent into reliable production.

The NHL’s best defensive pairings combine elite talent, chemistry, and consistency. Here are four duos to watch heading into the 2026-27 season.

After six consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance, the Columbus Blue Jackets enter a critical season under Rick Bowness. With the team showing flashes of potential last year before a late-season collapse, Bowness and Columbus now face the challenge of turning that potential into consistency.

André Tourigny has helped guide Utah through its transition and first playoff appearance. With a multiyear extension in place, the Mammoth are trusting him to lead the team forward.