Nicklas Backstrom is making a return to professional hockey, just not with the Washington Capital...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1262" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1262">Nicklas Backstrom</a> is making a return to professional hockey, just not with the Washington Capitals.The 37-year-old signed with Brynas IF of the Swedish Hockey League on Monday, the team announced.The Capitals congratulated Backstrom on the move.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This isn't goodbye, just see you later ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALLCAPS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALLCAPS</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y6VYzEcG0p">pic.twitter.com/Y6VYzEcG0p</a>— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Capitals/status/1949793112227762408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Backstrom hasn't officially retired from the NHL, though he hasn't suited up in a professional game since October 2023, spending the entire 2024-25 season on long-term injured reserve. His contract expired July 1.He played just eight contests in 2023-24 before stepping away due to ongoing hip issues. Backstrom underwent hip resurfacing surgery in the 2022 offseason, causing him to miss the first half of the 2022-23 campaign. The playmaking center struggled to regain his prior form following the procedure.Backstrom hails from Gavle, Sweden, where Brynas plays its home games. He came up through Brynas' junior program and played three seasons for the professional team before coming to the NHL in 2007.The longtime setup man for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>, Backstrom's 762 assists are the most in Capitals history and sixth-most in the NHL's salary-cap era, trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick Kane</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1061" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1061">Joe Thornton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/575">Anze Kopitar</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a>.Backstrom also ranks second to Ovechkin in Capitals history in games played (1,105) and points (1,033). He helped Washington win the 2018 Stanley Cup, racking up 23 points in 20 games that postseason.The Capitals drafted Backstrom fourth overall in 2006, two years after selecting Ovechkin first overall.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 07: Former Capital Nicklas Backstrom waves to the crowd during a pregame ceremony before the Detroit Red Wings versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on March 7, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C..

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Backstrom signs with Swedish team Brynas IF

The Winnipeg Jets and defenseman Dylan Samberg submitted arbitration filings with a $3.5-million ...

The Winnipeg Jets and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9989" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9989">Dylan Samberg</a> submitted arbitration filings with a $3.5-million gap ahead of Wednesday's hearing for the restricted free agent, reports <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1949844562152685956">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.The Jets filed at $2.5 million, while Samberg's camp filed for $6 million, per Friedman. Samberg is only eligible for a one-year deal in arbitration because he's a year away from unrestricted free agency.The two sides can still negotiate until the hearing.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Samberg posted a personal-best 20 points in 60 games last season while averaging a career-high 21:08 per contest. It was Samberg's first year logging top-four minutes, and he flourished in a second-pairing role alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a>, ranking second among all NHL defensemen in <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>'s goals above replacement metric (18.9).The 26-year-old boasts ideal size at 6-foot-4 and 216 pounds. He also blocked 120 shots and threw 56 hits last season.The Jets have $10.5 million available in cap space. Evolving-Hockey projected Samberg would land a four-year deal with a $4.5-million cap hit.Winnipeg selected Samberg in the second round of the 2017 NHL Draft.

WINNIPEG, CANADA - MAY 9: Dylan Samberg #54 of the Winnipeg Jets looks on during the pre-game warm up prior to NHL action against the Dallas Stars in Game Two of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre on May 9, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Report: Jets, Samberg file $3.5M apart ahead of arbitration hearing

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge isn't in the lineup Saturday against the Philadelphia Phi...

New York Yankees outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> isn't in the lineup Saturday against the Philadelphia Phillies due to an elbow issue, manager Aaron Boone told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/YESNetwork/status/1949130983044755472">YES</a>.Boone added that the club is awaiting imaging results after Judge had difficulty throwing the ball from the outfield in Friday's 12-5 loss. He went 0-for-3 at the dish with a sacrifice fly and an RBI."Obviously concerned, but we'll wait and see as they read the imaging," Boone said. "Hopefully have more of that later today."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Judge appeared to be wincing during Tuesday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays when he threw the ball in from right field. He served as New York's designated hitter Wednesday before the team had a day off Thursday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Judge looked like he was wincing after tracking down this ball <a href="https://t.co/KrZnH9gN5P">pic.twitter.com/KrZnH9gN5P</a>— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinYanks/status/1947829235378278682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> is in right field Saturday, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8203">Trent Grisham</a> in center and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15477" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15477">Jasson Dominguez</a> in left. Trade deadline pickup Ryan McMahon is making his Yankee debut at the hot corner.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Saturday Matinee. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepBX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepBX</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZfPU8yuCp">pic.twitter.com/gZfPU8yuCp</a>— New York Yankees (@Yankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees/status/1949108753262927979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Judge, the reigning AL MVP, is the favorite to take home the award again this season. He's hitting .342/.449/.711 with 37 home runs and 85 RBIs in 103 games.

BRONX, NY - JULY 25: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees at bat during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies on July 25, 2025 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

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Judge dealing with elbow issue, not in lineup vs. Phillies

The Chicago Blackhawks and restricted free-agent goaltender Arvid Soderblom avoided arbitration, ...

The Chicago Blackhawks and restricted free-agent goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11231" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11231">Arvid Soderblom</a> avoided arbitration, agreeing to a two-year contract carrying an average annual value of $2.75 million, the team announced Saturday.Soderblom's arbitration hearing was set for Monday.The two-year pact takes Soderblom to unrestricted free agency.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 25-year-old netminder posted an .898 save percentage in 36 appearances last season. However, Soderblom put up favorable underlying numbers, as he stopped 4.36 goals above expected, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.He owns a .889 save percentage in 86 career games across four NHL seasons - all with the Blackhawks.Soderblom projects to serve as Chicago's backup goalie behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10499" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10499">Spencer Knight</a> next season, although he could face competition if veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2077" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2077">Laurent Brossoit</a>, who missed all of last campaign with a knee injury, can return in 2025-26.Defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9256" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9256">Wyatt Kaiser</a> is Chicago's final remaining RFA.

MONTREAL, CANADA - APRIL 14: Arvid Soderblom #40 of the Chicago Blackhawks tends net during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on April 14, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-3 in a shootout.

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Blackhawks re-sign Soderblom to 2-year, $5.5M deal

New Toronto Maple Leafs forward Dakota Joshua will don No. 81 in Toronto, but not simply because ...

New Toronto Maple Leafs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10054" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10054">Dakota Joshua</a> will don No. 81 in Toronto, but not simply because those are the digits he wore during his three seasons with the Vancouver Canucks.Joshua is also a fan of the most famous Maple Leaf to wear the number: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/90" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/90">Phil Kessel</a>."I love the mojo there," Joshua told <a href="https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/dakota-joshua-takes-fellow-cancer-survivor-phil-kessels-no-81">Postmedia's Lance Hornby</a>. "I knew his story and looking forward to playing a long time here like Kessel did."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kessel and Joshua are both testicular cancer survivors. Kessel overcame it as a rookie with the Boston Bruins in 2006-07, prior to a six-year run with the Maple Leafs in which he racked up 394 points - 25th-most in franchise history - across 446 games.Joshua missed the start of the 2024-25 season following his diagnosis."It puts your life in perspective," Joshua said. "The biggest takeaway is that anything can happen to you, so make the most of (life). But after coming out the other side, I'm stronger as a person. It makes you confident you can get through anything."The 29-year-old endured a down season after returning to the lineup in November, producing seven goals and seven assists in 57 games. He set career highs with 18 goals and 14 assists in 63 appearances the year prior. Joshua also added four goals and four assists in 13 playoff contests that spring.The Maple Leafs acquired Joshua on Thursday in exchange for a 2028 fourth-round pick. He's under contract for three more years with a $3.25-million cap hit.Joshua was originally drafted by the Maple Leafs in the fifth round in 2014, though he never suited up for the club. He spent two years with the St. Louis Blues - under current Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube - prior to joining the Canucks in 2022.The 6-foot-3, 206-pound winger ranks 12th among NHL skaters with 659 hits over the past three seasons.Mac Hollowell is the only other player in club history to wear No. 81.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 18: Dakota Joshua #81 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates a goal during the third period of a game against the Utah Hockey Club at Delta Center on December 18, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Joshua to wear Kessel's No. 81 with Leafs: 'I love the mojo there'

The Seattle Kraken and restricted free-agent forward Kaapo Kakko avoided arbitration Tuesday, agr...

The Seattle Kraken and restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8593" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8593">Kaapo Kakko</a> avoided arbitration Tuesday, agreeing to a three-year contract that carries a $4.525-million average annual value, the team announced Tuesday.The contract buys two of Kakko's unrestricted free agency years."Getting a contract done with Kaapo was a top priority this summer," general manager Jason Botterill said. "We knew quickly he'd be a big part of our team moving forward. He's got size, skill, and tremendous playmaking ability, and isn't afraid of going to the net. He fit in immediately with our group, and we're thrilled to have him under contract."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kakko, 24, recorded 14 goals and 30 assists in 79 games last season. However, 30 of his 44 points came in 49 games games with the Kraken following a midseason trade from the New York Rangers.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kaapo Kakko, signed 3x$4.5M by SEA, is a middle six winger who's still working out what his game is in the NHL. Still strong on the puck and a good forechecker but has to overcome his poor foot-speed and be more consistent offensively. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SeaKraken?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SeaKraken</a> <a href="https://t.co/dopgnXPzkG">pic.twitter.com/dopgnXPzkG</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1947798431679832152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Kraken acquired Kakko in December in exchange for defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9738" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9738">Will Borgen</a> and a pair of draft picks.The Rangers drafted Kakko second overall in 2019. He's tallied 161 points in 379 career games.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 15: Kaapo Kakko #84 of the Seattle Kraken looks on during the first period of a game against the Los Angeles Kings at Climate Pledge Arena on April 15, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Kraken re-sign Kakko to 3-year, $13.6M contract

Blake Wheeler retired from the NHL after 16 seasons, he announced Wednesday.  The 38-year-old did...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/119" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/119">Blake Wheeler</a> retired from the NHL after 16 seasons, he announced Wednesday.The 38-year-old didn't play this past season after going unsigned as an unrestricted free agent in 2024."More or less, right after last year, I knew I was all done," Wheeler said during an interview with "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTheOSvNvP8&amp;t=853s&amp;ab_channel=Jets%40Noon">Jets @ Noon</a>." "I just haven't felt a rush to make a formal announcement or anything. But yeah, after my injury and kinda the way things ended last year, I just didn't have anything left in the tank for it. So yeah, I was at peace with it almost immediately after last year, and yeah, I'm just enjoying being a dad and kinda slowing things down a little bit, and being around my family."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wheeler spent 13 seasons with the Thrashers/Jets organization, serving as Winnipeg's captain for six campaigns. He also played parts of three seasons with the Boston Bruins to begin his career, then spent his last year with the New York Rangers in 2023-24.He missed the final three months of the 2023-24 campaign due to a leg injury before returning for one playoff game, which turned out to be the final appearance of his career. "I tore the ligaments on both sides of my ankle, and then I broke my fibula," he said. "Once I got hurt, I was already kinda feeling like that was gonna be sort of my last year when I was playing, even healthy in New York. And then when the injury happened, it just felt like that was some sort of sign. I hadn't really been hurt my entire career, more or less."Possessing a great combination of size and playmaking ability, the 6-foot-5 winger amassed 943 points in 1,172 career games. His best season came in 2017-18 when he tallied a career-high 91 points, an NHL-best 68 assists, and finished eighth in Hart Trophy voting. He also added 21 points in 17 playoff appearances that spring, guiding the Jets to the Western Conference Final."I think, 2018, we can all agree we were the best team in the league, and we let that one slip away," Wheeler said. "I wanted to, with every ounce of me, win a Stanley Cup in Winnipeg."Wheeler, a native of Plymouth, Minnesota, ranks 14th among American-born skaters in points. His 812 points are the most in Thrashers/Jets franchise history, though <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2150" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2150">Mark Scheifele</a>, sitting at 804, will likely pass him this season.

WINNIPEG, CANADA - APRIL 24: Blake Wheeler #26 of the Winnipeg Jets looks on during a second period stoppage in play against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game Four of the First Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre on April 24, 2023 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Blake Wheeler retires after 16 seasons

The Edmonton Oilers are counting on some internal development to push them over the top next seas...

The Edmonton Oilers are counting on some internal development to push them over the top next season, and the organization believes 21-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12705" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12705">Matt Savoie</a> is among the players capable of a big breakout."There is some growth from within," Oilers general manager Stan Bowman said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/matt-savoie-out-to-make-edmonton-oilers-roster-this-season">NHL.com's Derek Van Diest</a>. "I think Matt Savoie is probably poised to take a big step next year."Savoie was acquired from the Buffalo Sabres last offseason in a deal for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7826" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7826">Ryan McLeod</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9346" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9346">Tyler Tullio</a>. He spent the majority of the 2024-25 season in the AHL, collecting 54 points in 66 games. Savoie made four appearances with the Oilers, picking up one assist.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>While the 5-foot-9 Savoie was touted as a skilled, dynamic forward when he was drafted ninth overall in 2022, he made strides defensively last season by killing penalties. The offseason departure of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3202" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3202">Connor Brown</a> - one of Edmonton's top penalty killers - creates an opportunity for Savoie to grab a spot on the opening night roster."With Savoie, the one thing that I'm very optimistic about is penalty kill and how good he was in Bakersfield in that role," Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said. "He didn't have any penalty-kill time when he was with us, but certainly, we saw him being a reliable two-way player at five-on-five."The opportunity for Savoie is on the penalty kill, not that he can't be on the power play, but I definitely see him being a big part of our penalty kill."If his game proves to be mature beyond his years, Savoie could potentially play his way into a top-six role alongside either <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a>. That would be a big boon for the Oilers considering he still has two years remaining on his entry-level contract."I'm really motivated to push for a spot and be a big contributor for that team," Savoie said. "They're so close to winning the Stanley Cup, and there is no better opportunity to put yourself into."

EDMONTON, CANADA - SEPTEMBER 22: Matt Savoie #22 of the Edmonton Oilers warms up prior to the preseason game against the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Place on September 22, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Oilers GM: Savoie 'poised to take a big step next year'

Longtime NHL goaltender Jaroslav Halak officially announced his retirement from hockey on Friday,...

Longtime NHL goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/653" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/653">Jaroslav Halak</a> officially announced his retirement from hockey on Friday, he told <a href="https://x.com/Lewysko/status/1946076931121611041">Dennik Sport's Tomas Prokop</a>.Halak played 17 seasons in the NHL, winning the William M. Jennings Trophy twice, finishing top-10 in Vezina Trophy voting twice, and making one All-Star appearance.A ninth-round pick by Montreal in 2003, Halak suited up for the Canadiens, St. Louis Blues, Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, and New York Rangers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Halak posted a 295-189-69 record in 581 career games with a .915 save percentage, a 2.50 goals-against average, and 53 shutouts. He also registered a .919 save percentage in 39 career playoff games, including a memorable run with the Canadiens to the 2010 Eastern Conference Final, where he earned the starting job over Carey Price.He also represented Slovakia on the international stage numerous times, playing in two World Junior Championships, two Olympics, and three World Championships. Halak also led Team Europe to a second-place finish at the 2016 World Cup, posting a .941 save percentage in six games.Halak, who turned 40 in May, last suited up in a professional game with the Rangers in 2022-23.

ST. LOUIS, MO - DECEMBER 30: Jaroslav Halak #41 of the St. Louis Blues makes a save against the Nashville Predators in an NHL game on December 30, 2011 at Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Halak retires after 17-year NHL career

The Anaheim Ducks re-signed restricted free-agent goaltender Lukas Dostal to a five-year contract...

The Anaheim Ducks re-signed restricted free-agent goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9753" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9753">Lukas Dostal</a> to a five-year contract, he announced Thursday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A message from Lukáš Dostál… <a href="https://t.co/OKrx06mk13">pic.twitter.com/OKrx06mk13</a>— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnaheimDucks/status/1945913978305351982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The contract carries an average annual value of $6.5 million, reports <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1945914304454107600">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.The deal will make Dostal the NHL's 10th-highest paid active goalie for the 2025-26 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dostal posted a .903 save percentage in 54 games last season. He ranked ninth among NHL netminders with 22.5 goals saved above expected, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.The 25-year-old owns a 42-58-13 record with a .902 save percentage across his four-year NHL career. The Ducks drafted him in the third round in 2018.Dostal is expected to take on a larger workload in 2025-26 after Anaheim traded longtime starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2074">John Gibson</a> to the Detroit Red Wings in June. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2204" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2204">Petr Mrazek</a>, who was part of the return package for Gibson, projects to serve as Dostal's backup.

ST. LOUIS, MO - MARCH 16: Anaheim Ducks goaltender Lukas Dostal (1) as seen during an NHL game between the Anaheim Ducks and the St. Louis Blues on March 16, 2025, at Enterprise Center, St. Louis MO.

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Ducks lock up Dostal to 5-year contract with reported $6.5M AAV

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark won't participate in the WNBA All-Star Game or the Three-Point ...

Indiana Fever guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121626" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121626">Caitlin Clark</a> won't participate in the WNBA All-Star Game or the Three-Point Contest this weekend, she announced Thursday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
a message from Caitlin Clark ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/zRGZEpqF5R">pic.twitter.com/zRGZEpqF5R</a>— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianaFever/status/1945891309127970980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Clark aggravated a nagging leg injury in the final minute of Tuesday's game against the Connecticut Sun and missed Indiana's final contest before the All-Star break on Wednesday. In total, she's been sidelined for 10 of the Fever's 23 games this season due to injuries to her left groin and left quad.Indiana is hosting All-Star Weekend for the first time. Clark was selected as an All-Star captain.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27663" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27663">Brittney Sykes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/33039" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/33039">Brionna Jones</a> were named roster replacements for Clark and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/61704" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/61704">Satou Sabally</a>, who's also sitting out the All-Star Game with an injury.Clark is the WNBA's reigning Rookie of the Year after averaging 19.2 points and 8.4 assists in 40 appearances last season. She's posting 16.5 points and 8.8 assists per contest in 13 games this campaign.The Fever drafted Clark first overall in 2024 after a standout NCAA career at Iowa, where she led the nation in scoring three straight years.

Boston, MA - July 15: Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark stands with her hands on her hips in the fourth quarter at TD Garden on July 15, 2025.

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Clark withdraws from WNBA All-Star Game, Three-Point Contest due to injury

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov would like to be traded, his agent Shumi Babaev ann...

Columbus Blue Jackets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9203" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9203">Yegor Chinakhov</a> would like to be traded, his agent Shumi Babaev <a href="https://x.com/BabayevShumi/status/1945855591697527112">announced</a> on his behalf Thursday.Chinakhov said "he had some misunderstandings" with head coach Dean Evason. The 6-foot-1, 201-pound winger added that he would like to continue his career in the NHL rather than returning to Russia.The request didn't come as news to Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I'm surprised (Babaev) went public," Waddell told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6500013/2025/07/17/yegor-chinakhov-blue-jackets-trade-request/">The Athletic's Aaron Portzline</a>. "But I'm not surprised (about the trade request) because we've talked about it. He got back (from the back injury last season) and didn't play well. ..."I told (Babaev), he has value. I will talk to teams. I have talked to teams. But I'm not just going to trade him because you said to trade him."Chinakhov, 24, notched 14 points in 21 appearances before missing 39 games with a back injury. He managed just one assist in nine contests after returning and was a healthy scratch at times."When he came back, he was not the Chinakhov we were hoping he was, and he got healthy scratched at the end (of the season)," Waddell said. "That's what happens with guys. He couldn't handle that."In November 2023, Chinakhov stated through his agent that he was unhappy playing fourth-line minutes and wanted to leave the team, though he didn't formally request a trade at that time.Chinakhov set career highs with 16 goals and 13 assists in 53 appearances in 2023-24 under head coach Pascal Vincent, who was fired after one season.The Blue Jackets drafted Chinakhov 21st overall in 2020. The pick came as a major surprise at the time, as he was an overager and projected to be a mid-round selection. The pick was made by then-GM Jarmo Kekalainen, who was fired in February 2024.Chinakhov is set to enter the second season of a two-year contract carrying a $2.1-million cap hit. He'll be a restricted free agent at season's end and is under team control until 2028.Waddell said Chinakhov will "100%" be at training camp if a trade doesn't come together."I've been through this before," Waddell said. "If he comes back and says, 'My agent tried to find me a different place, but I'm here and I'm going to play as hard as I can' … I've seen it a number of times, and usually it's not an issue if the player shows up with the right attitude."

COLUMBUS, OHIO - MARCH 20: Yegor Chinakhov #59 of the Columbus Blue Jackets passes the puck during the game against the Florida Panthers at Nationwide Arena on March 20, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio. Florida defeated Columbus 1-0 in overtime.

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Chinakhov requests trade from Blue Jackets

The Colorado Avalanche signed defenseman Josh Manson to a two-year contract extension, the team a...

The Colorado Avalanche signed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3862" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3862">Josh Manson</a> to a two-year contract extension, the team announced Thursday.The new deal comes with an average annual value of $3.95 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1943415574262091888">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.The 33-year-old's current contract, which expires in 2026, carries a $4.5-million cap hit.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Manson recorded 15 points in 48 games with the Avalanche last season. The 6-foot-3 right-shot defenseman is better known for his physicality and defensive acumen than his offense, however.The Avalanche acquired Manson in a 2022 trade with the Ducks following an eight-year run in Anaheim. He helped Colorado capture the Stanley Cup in 2022.Manson might receive slightly less ice time than the 18:02 he averaged last season after the Avalanche bolstered the right side of their blue line by adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/607" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/607">Brent Burns</a> in free agency.Manson has totaled 170 points in 626 games across a 11-year NHL career split between the Ducks and Avalanche.

DENVER, COLORADO - APRIL 26: Josh Manson #42 of the Colorado Avalanche skates against the Dallas Stars in Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 26, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Avalanche sign Manson to 2-year extension

The Dallas Stars traded defenseman Matt Dumba and a 2028 second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Peng...

The Dallas Stars traded defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2591">Matt Dumba</a> and a 2028 second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins for fellow blue-liner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10524" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10524">Vladislav Kolyachonok</a>, the teams announced Thursday.Dumba is entering the second season of a two-year contract signed last summer that pays him $3.75 million annually. It proved to be a regrettable deal for reigning three-time general manager of the year Jim Nill, as Dumba was a healthy scratch for all 18 of Dallas' postseason games in 2025. He notched 10 points in 63 appearances during the regular season while averaging 15:18 per contest.The 30-year-old enjoyed a career-high 50-point season in 2017-18, but his play has deteriorated in recent years.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Matt Dumba, traded to PIT, is a veteran depth defenceman who shoots the puck and plays with a bit of an edge. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsGoPens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsGoPens</a> <a href="https://t.co/uxhoyqHx1R">pic.twitter.com/uxhoyqHx1R</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1943386701604311483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The move creates much-needed salary flexibility for the Stars, who were over the cap prior to the trade.The Penguins, meanwhile, add to their cupboard of draft picks as they continue to rebuild. They have three second-round picks in 2026, two in 2027, and now two in 2028. They also made three first-round selections at this year's draft.Dumba's path to playing time in Pittsburgh is murky with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6615" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6615">Connor Clifton</a> projected to make up the right side of the Penguins' blue line. However, the Pens reportedly shopped Karlsson prior to the 2025 trade deadline and are expected to continue to do so this summer.Kolyachonok was a second-round pick by the Florida Panthers in 2019. The 6-foot-2 left-shot defender has collected 14 points in 74 career NHL games split between the Arizona Coyotes, Utah Mammoth, and Penguins. The 24-year-old projects to provide depth on Dallas' blue line.

DALLAS, TEXAS - APRIL 12: Mathew Dumba #3 of the Dallas Stars controls the puck during the first period against the Utah Hockey Club at American Airlines Center on April 12, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Stars trade Dumba to Penguins

The New York Sirens re-signed forward Sarah Fillier to a two-year contract, the team announced Th...

The New York Sirens re-signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15792" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15792">Sarah Fillier</a> to a two-year contract, the team announced Thursday.Fillier was a restricted free agent. The deal, which keeps her in New York through the 2026-27 campaign, makes her the PWHL's highest-paid player, a source told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6486245/2025/07/10/sarah-fillier-pwhl-new-york-sirens-contract/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Hailey Salvian</a>."I'm so excited to re-sign in New York for two more years," Fillier said in a statement. "It's a special city to play in, and I feel lucky to be part of this team. I'm really looking forward to what's ahead and continuing to build something great with the Sirens."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 25-year-old tallied 13 goals and 16 assists in 30 games last season, earning PWHL Rookie of the Year honors. Fillier's 29 points tied <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15719" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15719">Hilary Knight</a> for the league lead."She brings exceptional talent, leadership, and a relentless will to win - qualities that will elevate every teammate and ignite excitement in every fan," Sirens general manager Pascal Daoust said in a statement.The Sirens selected Fillier with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 PWHL Draft following a standout NCAA career at Princeton where she recorded 93 goals and 194 points in 120 games across four seasons with the Tigers.The Georgetown, Ontario, native won a gold medal with Canada at the 2022 Olympics and is a three-time World Championship gold medalist.

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - MARCH 25: Sarah Fillier #10 of the New York Sirens celebrates her goal against the Ottawa Charge during the third period of their PWHL game at The Arena at TD Place on March 25, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario.

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Sirens re-sign Fillier to 2-year contract

Dale Hunter will coach Team Canada at the 2026 World Junior Championship, Hockey Canada announced...

Dale Hunter will coach Team Canada at the 2026 World Junior Championship, Hockey Canada announced Thursday.Additionally, his brother, Mark Hunter, will be part of the management group.Dale Hunter has been the president and head coach of the OHL's London Knights since 2001, except for the 2011-12 season when he coached the Washington Capitals for 60 games as a midseason replacement for Bruce Boudreau.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 64-year-old has helped transform the Knights into one of the most successful franchises in junior hockey, guiding the club to five OHL championships and three Memorial Cup titles. He's been named the OHL's coach of the year on three occasions.Hunter has coached Canada at the world juniors once before, winning a gold medal in 2020 with a squad led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7808" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7808">Barrett Hayton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9195" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9195">Alexis Lafreniere</a>.He also enjoyed a stellar NHL playing career, racking up 1,020 points and 3,565 penalty minutes across 19 seasons with the Capitals and Quebec Nordiques.Mark Hunter was the general manager of the 2020 Canadian world junior team. He's been the GM of the Knights since 2000, with a break from 2014-18 when he worked in the Toronto Maple Leafs' front office.The Hunter brothers have also owned the Knights since 2000.Hockey Canada <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3303768" href="https://thescore.com/news/3303768">hired</a> Alan Miller to be its first full-time WJHC GM back in June.Canada reached new lows at the 2025 world juniors, losing to Latvia in the round robin on home ice before being bounced in the quarterfinals by Czechia for the second straight year. It's the first time Canada failed to reach the semis in consecutive years since the tournament changed to a playoff format in 1996. Alan Letang coached Canada in 2024, while Dave Cameron was behind the bench in 2025.The 2026 World Junior Hockey Championship will take place in Minneapolis–Saint Paul. The Americans are two-time defending champions.

LONDON, ON - FEBRUARY 13: Head coach Dale Hunter of the London Knights looks on from behind the bench in the third period during OHL game action against the Guelph Storm at Budweiser Gardens on February 13, 2019 in London, Canada.

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Canada tabs Dale Hunter as WJHC head coach

While most of the NHL's unrestricted free agents have already signed, there's still a handful of ...

While most of the NHL's unrestricted free agents have already signed, there's still a handful of intriguing names left on the open market. Still, there's a reason these players remain unsigned: they all have warts. If you squint just enough, you can see why teams might see some value in them, especially since most of these players may be forced to settle for low-cost, one-year contracts at this point.Below, we identify the best fits for the league's top remaining UFAs.<h3>Victor Olofsson</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/cropped_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793422/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214158148.jpg?ts=1751941510 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jeff Bottari / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 29 Position: LW/RW Best fit: Boston Bruins<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>If the Bruins want to return to the playoffs next season after missing out in 2025, their 29th-ranked power play will have to improve significantly. That makes Olofsson a great fit. Of his 105 career NHL goals, 41 have come on the man advantage. As a lefty with a lethal shot from the right half wall, he could be a great complement to David Pastrnak on the opposite flank. Olofsson is a bit one-dimensional, but he addresses Boston's biggest need.<h3>Jack Roslovic</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/cropped_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752878/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181447104.jpg?ts=1730427510 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Josh Lavallee / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 28 Position: C/RW Best fit: Toronto Maple LeafsRoslovic is arguably the top UFA remaining, but that doesn't say a lot. While he tied a career high with 22 goals last season, he has been unreliable defensively throughout his career and was a healthy scratch at times for the Carolina Hurricanes this past postseason. However, the Maple Leafs are arguably the league's best team with an opening in their top-six forward group following Mitch Marner's departure. Roslovic also notably played alongside Auston Matthews with the U.S. National Team Development Program in 2014-15.<h3>Jeff Skinner</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/cropped_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783710/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211363657.jpg?ts=1746212845 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Age: 33 Position: LW Best fit: Nashville PredatorsSkinner finally got to play for a playoff team for the first time in his 15-year NHL career, but he appeared in only five of the Edmonton Oilers' 22 postseason contests after spending most of the run as a healthy scratch. Finding a playoff-caliber team that can accommodate Skinner in a top-nine role may not be possible for him as a free agent now. Although Skinner can put the puck in the net, he's coming off a nightmare season in which his pace and defensive play became major concerns. The Predators, who scored the second-fewest goals in the league last campaign, may be willing to roll the dice on a bounce-back year in an effort to return to the postseason after a disappointing 2024-25.Editor's Note: Skinner agreed to a one-year, $3-million deal with the San Jose Sharks on July 11.<h3>Joe Veleno</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/cropped_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792378/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210067806.jpg?ts=1751213865 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 25 Position: C Best fit: New York RangersThe Rangers will need another center if they plan to play Mika Zibanejad on the wing as they did down the stretch last season. Enter Veleno, who's one of the youngest free agents available. While he hasn't lived up to the expectations that come with being granted exceptional status in the QMJHL at 15 years old and a first-round pick by the Detroit Red Wings, Veleno is a physical player who has posted stellar defensive metrics throughout his NHL career. Even if the offense hasn't caught up, he could be New York's answer at 3C. At the very least, Veleno's probably better than Juuso Parssinen and Sam Carrick - the other contenders for that role.<h3>Matt Grzelcyk</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/cropped_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793423/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209589387.jpg?ts=1751941553 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Berl / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 31 Position: LD Best fit: Colorado AvalancheThe No. 3 left-shot defenseman on Colorado's depth chart is currently Keaton Middleon - a 27-year-old with 44 NHL games under his belt. The 5-foot-10 Grzelcyk would be a major upgrade in that spot and could potentially be a great fit in head coach Jared Bednar's up-tempo system with the way the blue-liner skates and moves the puck. There's admittedly some duplication with the 5-foot-10 Sam Girard already pencilled in on Colorado's second pair. Still, a third pair featuring Grzelcyk and either Brent Burns or Josh Manson could be dominant in sheltered minutes.<h3>Alexandar Georgiev</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/cropped_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793424/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211376396.jpg?ts=1751941593 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Derek Cain / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 29 Position: G Best fit: Edmonton OilersGeorgiev was arguably the worst goalie in the NHL last season, but he's just two years removed from a campaign in which he posted a .918 save percentage and finished seventh in Vezina Trophy voting. Despite a goalie duo of Georgiev and Stuart Skinner being understandably frightening for Oilers nation, Georgiev at least offers more upside than Calvin Pickard, who would likely clear waivers and serve as Edmonton's third goalie. With limited ways to upgrade the crease, Georgiev would be worth a flyer for the Oilers on a low-cost, one-year deal.<h3>James Reimer</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/cropped_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779636/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208657734.jpg?ts=1744166570 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Bill Wippert / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 37 Position: G Best fit: Calgary FlamesThe backup goalie job behind Dustin Wolf in Calgary appears to be an open competition between two unproven netminders in Devin Cooley and Ivan Prosvetov. The Flames could benefit from adding a steadying, veteran presence to help mentor Wolf, the 2025 Calder Trophy runner-up. Reimer would be a great candidate for such a role, and he proved last campaign that he still has plenty of game left after stopping 6.85 goals above expected in 24 appearances split between the Anaheim Ducks and Buffalo Sabres.<h3>Ilya Samsonov</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/cropped_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793425/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206583258.jpg?ts=1751941663 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David Becker / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Age: 28 Position: G Best fit: Pittsburgh PenguinsPenguins GM Kyle Dubas signed Samonsov in 2022 during his time with the Maple Leafs, and the netminder ended up having the best season of his career, posting a .919 save percentage in 42 games. Samsonov has endured a lot of ups and downs ever since that career year, but Dubas may be inclined to sign him again, considering how well it worked out the first time. Pittsburgh could stand to add someone to share the crease with Tristan Jarry to give 23-year-old Joel Blomqvist more time to develop in the AHL. Given Jarry's struggles last campaign, the starting job would be wide open for Samsonov to grab.(Analytics source: <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>)

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Best fits for the NHL's top remaining UFAs

The Tampa Bay Lightning traded forward prospect Isaac Howard to the Edmonton Oilers for fellow fo...

The Tampa Bay Lightning traded forward prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12722" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12722">Isaac Howard</a> to the Edmonton Oilers for fellow forward prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15171" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15171">Sam O'Reilly</a>, the teams announced Tuesday.Additionally, the Oilers announced they signed Howard to a three-year, entry-level contract, ending his college career a year early.Howard won the Hobey Baker Award as the NCAA's top player at Michigan State this past season, racking up 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games. He led the nation with 1.41 points per game. A 5-foot-11 winger with good speed and goal-scoring instincts, the 21-year-old could compete for a spot in Edmonton's opening-night lineup.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He won gold with the United States at the 2024 World Juniors, tying for the tournament lead with seven goals. Howard also won gold with the U.S. at the 2025 World Championship, contributing one assist in four games.The Lightning drafted Howard 31st overall in 2022. However, the player and the organization reportedly didn't see eye-to-eye and were unable to agree on an entry-level contract. Howard could've walked as an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season had he not signed his ELC.The Oilers drafted O'Reilly 32nd overall in 2024. The 6-foot-1 right-shooting center tallied 71 points in 62 games with the OHL's London Knights this past season. OHL coaches voted him as the top defensive forward in the Western Conference in 2024-25.

SOUTH BEND, IN - FEBRUARY 2: Isaac Howard #22 of Michigan State is all smiles after scoring a goal during a game between Michigan State University and University of Notre Dame at Compton Family Ice Arena on February 2, 2024 in South Bend, Indiana.

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Lightning trade Howard to Oilers for O'Reilly in prospect swap

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been fielding trade calls for wingers Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell ...

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been fielding trade calls for wingers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3872" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3872">Bryan Rust</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2075" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2075">Rickard Rakell</a> since the end of 2024-25 campaign, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6478036/2025/07/07/penguins-bryan-rust-rickard-rakell-trade-rumors/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Josh Yohe</a>.The Penguins reportedly aren't eager to trade either player since both have three years left on their current deals, but league sources told Yohe they expect at least one of them to be dealt this summer.Pittsburgh reportedly shopped Rakell at the deadline but didn't get a suitable offer. The 32-year-old Swede is coming off a season in which he established career highs with 35 goals and 70 points. His year-to-year production has been up and down, but Rakell has averaged 24 goals and 29 assists per 82 games across his 13-year career.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Rust held a no-movement clause until July 1, meaning he's a new entry into the trade market. The 33-year-old also set career highs with 31 goals and 65 points this past season. A longtime running mate of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a>, Rust has averaged 26 goals and 30 assists per 82 appearances in his 11-year career.Rakell carries a $5-million cap hit, while Rust's is slightly higher at $5.125 million.It's unclear which teams have inquired about Rust and Rakell, though the Carolina Hurricanes expressed interest before signing free-agent winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3995" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3995">Nikolaj Ehlers</a> to a six-year, $51-million contract Thursday, Yohe reports.Crosby is the only Penguin completely off limits in a trade, though fellow franchise icons <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a> are unlikely to be moved due to no-trade clauses and declining play, Yohe added. Pittsburgh was reportedly open to moving defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a> before the deadline, but a trade for the three-time Norris Trophy winner never materialized.The Penguins have missed the playoffs three years in a row following a run of 16 straight postseason appearances.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 07: Rickard Rakell #67 of the Pittsburgh Penguins (l) celebrates his second period goal against the New York Rangers and is joined by Bryan Rust #17 (r) at Madison Square Garden on February 07, 2025 in New York City.

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Report: Penguins taking calls on Rust, Rakell

The Utah Mammoth and restricted free-agent center Jack McBain avoided arbitration Monday, agreein...

The Utah Mammoth and restricted free-agent center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11032" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11032">Jack McBain</a> avoided arbitration Monday, agreeing to a five-year contract with a $4.25-million cap hit, the team announced.McBain set career highs with 13 goals and 27 points in 82 games last season. The 6-foot-4 forward also notched a team-high 291 hits.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jack McBain, signed 5x$4.3M by UTA, is a physical bottom six centre who forechecks and finishes his checks but doesn't do very much with the puck. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TusksUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TusksUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/tChoqcnfOb">pic.twitter.com/tChoqcnfOb</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1942389802281886049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 25-year-old projects to serve as Utah's third-line center next season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McBain has tallied 35 goals and 47 assists in 241 career NHL games. He was drafted 63rd overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2018 before he was traded to the Arizona Coyotes in 2022.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - APRIL 05: Jack McBain #22 of the Utah Hockey Club skates against the Winnipeg Jets on April 05, 2025 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Mammoth, McBain avoid arbitration with 5-year, $21.25M deal

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Josh Wegman

News Editor

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