Marc-Andre Fleury said farewell to Penguins fans Tuesday in what was almost certainly his final g...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1010" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1010">Marc-Andre Fleury</a> said farewell to Penguins fans Tuesday in what was almost certainly his final game in Pittsburgh.The 39-year-old Wild goaltender, who plans to retire at the end of the season, stopped 26 of 29 shots in Minnesota's 5-3 victory versus his former longtime club.The crowd at PPG Paints Arena stuck around following the final horn to serenade the beloved goalie with chants of "Fleury! Fleury!" as he was named the game's first star. The netminder then gave his stick to a lucky fan in the crowd donning his old Penguins jersey.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a> also stayed out late to congratulate their old teammate.Fleury was visibly emotional during his postgame interview while getting more chants from the crowd.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The first star tonight in Pittsburgh: Marc-Andre Fleury 🌸 <a href="https://t.co/1lRzaEzHmZ">pic.twitter.com/1lRzaEzHmZ</a>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1851444696129630356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"I feel very fortunate. Thank you, guys," Fleury said. "Those were some of the best years of my life, I really appreciate it. It's so hard to say bye, but thank you so much."He choked up more while speaking to media in the dressing room after the game."Hard to believe that's the last time," Fleury <a href="https://www.nhl.com/penguins/video/post-game-fleury-10-29-24-6363957241112">said</a>, his voice trembling. "I told you I've gone soft."He added: "I'm so appreciative from the bottom of my heart."Fleury received a standing ovation during the first TV timeout when a video tribute aired on the jumbotron.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Marc-Andre Fleury received a standing ovation following this video being played at tonight's game 💛 <a href="https://t.co/bYRPzuvbTz">pic.twitter.com/bYRPzuvbTz</a>— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) <a href="https://twitter.com/penguins/status/1851405340291817518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>A noted prankster, the video featured some of Fleury's best practical jokes throughout his career.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Marc-Andre Fleury: an icon. <a href="https://t.co/VncveQxxDQ">pic.twitter.com/VncveQxxDQ</a>— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) <a href="https://twitter.com/penguins/status/1851280056301363604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Penguins drafted Fleury first overall in 2003, and he won three Stanley Cups during his 13 seasons in Pittsburgh. He's the franchise's all-time leader in goalie games played (691), wins (375), goals-against average (2.58), and shutouts (44).

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 29: Marc-Andre Fleury #29 of the Minnesota Wild acknowledges the fans after the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on October 29, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28841268/related

Fleury bids adieu to Pittsburgh: 'Some of the best years of my life'

Washington Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun didn't return after suffering an upper-body injury ...

Washington Capitals defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5601">Jakob Chychrun</a> didn't return after suffering an upper-body injury in Tuesday's 5-3 win against the New York Rangers.Chychrun appeared to favor his left side before departing the contest in the first period."A little concerned because we're obviously missing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6358" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6358">Matt Roy</a>, as well," Capitals coach Spencer Carbery said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/Tarik_ElBashir/status/1851454649229869133">Monumental's Tarik El-Bashir</a>. "I don't know the extent of it. But to play with five D for 55 minutes against that team, a lot of credit to our D for battling through that."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 26-year-old has been playing on the top pairing with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1445" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1445">John Carlson</a>, ranking second on the team in average time on ice. He's recorded two goals and two assists in eight games this season.The Capitals acquired Chychrun in an offseason trade with the Ottawa Senators. Washington has also been without Roy - another summer acquisition - since the season opener.Chychrun is a free agent at the end of the season.

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 29: Jakob Chychrun #6 of the Washington Capitals and Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers vie for the puck during the first period of the game at Capital One Arena on October 29, 2024 in Washington, DC.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28840149/related

Capitals' Chychrun suffers upper-body injury vs. Rangers

The Colorado Avalanche were dealt another major blow Monday, as forward Ross Colton suffered an a...

The Colorado Avalanche were dealt another major blow Monday, as forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9947" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9947">Ross Colton</a> suffered an apparent foot injury that will force him to "miss some time," head coach Jared Bednar <a href="https://x.com/DNVR_Avalanche/status/1851114564223475900">said</a> postgame."We'll get a better feel on how much time that's going to be by tomorrow or Wednesday morning," Bednar added.Colton suffered the injury while blocking a shot during Colorado's 5-2 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks. He left the arena in a walking boot.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 28-year-old is thriving on the Avalanche's top line alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a>. He entered Monday tied for second in the NHL with eight goals in nine games.Colorado is already without forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2034" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2034">Gabriel Landeskog</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5569" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5569">Artturi Lehkonen</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3003">Valeri Nichushkin</a>. None of them have played this season, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3008" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3008">Jonathan Drouin</a> was hurt in the team's opener and hasn't played since.It's been a roller-coaster season for the Avalanche, who started 0-4-0, then won five straight games before Monday's loss.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 22: Ross Colton #20 of the Colorado Avalanche skates during the first period of a game \as at Climate Pledge Arena on October 22, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28833414/related

Avalanche's Colton to miss time with apparent foot injury

The San Jose Sharks won their first game of the season in dramatic fashion on Monday, scoring fou...

The San Jose Sharks won their first game of the season in dramatic fashion on Monday, scoring four unanswered goals to defeat the Utah Hockey Club in overtime.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3917" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3917">Alex Wennberg</a> played the role of OT hero.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
WENNBERG COMPLETES THE COMEBACK ‼ SHARKS WIN <a href="https://t.co/177SiuFxKY">pic.twitter.com/177SiuFxKY</a>— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSSharks/status/1851110223676838353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10863" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10863">Fabian Zetterlund</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2567" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2567">Mikael Granlund</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1737" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1737">Tyler Toffoli</a> bagged goals 1:50 apart in the final five minutes of regulation to force overtime.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Remember when we said we were still in this? 😏 <a href="https://t.co/InN6yDetXX">pic.twitter.com/InN6yDetXX</a>— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) <a href="https://twitter.com/SanJoseSharks/status/1851107821510877450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Sharks are now 1-7-2 on the campaign. They became the first team in NHL history to begin consecutive seasons with at least nine straight losses. The victory also marks the first career NHL win for Ryan Warsofsky, San Jose's rookie head coach."Look, I didn't really do much," Warsofsky said, per <a href="https://sanjosehockeynow.com/san-jose-sharks-wennberg-toffoli-zetterlund-locker-room/">San Jose Hockey Now's Sheng Peng</a>. "The players, credit to them. They stuck with it. There was times we did some really, really good things and just didn't get rewarded for it. But we stuck with it. We just kept playing. And that's going to be our mindset. We're never going to give up."Utah coach Andre Tourigny provided a harsh assessment after blowing a lead to the NHL's last-place club."We need to own it, and the leadership needs to own it as well," Tourigny said, according to <a href="https://x.com/millerjryan/status/1851118755373597140">Ryan Miller of KSL.com</a>. "What happened there, it's unacceptable - it's embarrassing."Utah is 4-4-2 on the season after the loss.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - OCTOBER 28: Tyler Toffoli #73 of the San Jose Sharks reacts after scoring the game-tying goal during the third period of a game against the Utah Hockey Club on October 28, 2024 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28833159/related

Sharks rally late, beat Utah in OT for 1st win of season

The Winnipeg Jets have been grounded.  The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Jets in a 6-4 thrille...

The Winnipeg Jets have been grounded.The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Jets in a 6-4 thriller on Monday, giving Winnipeg its first loss of the season after an 8-0-0 start.Another victory would've put the Jets within one of tying the NHL record for consecutive wins to begin a season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Streak</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td>1993-94 Maple Leafs</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td>2006-07 Sabres</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T3</td>
<td>2015-16 Canadiens</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T3</td>
<td>2021-22 Hurricanes</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Jets had also won 16 straight regular-season games dating back to the 2023-24 campaign - one shy of the NHL record set by 1992-93 Pittsburgh Penguins.The Maple Leafs held leads of 4-0 and 5-2 but let the Jets crawl back into the game on both occasions.Toronto's newly configured second line led the way offensively, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a> scored a game-sealing empty-netter to complete a hat trick, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4180" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/666" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/666">Max Pacioretty</a> had three points apiece.The ice was tilted in the Maple Leafs' favor for the majority of the game, as Toronto outscored Winnipeg 5-0 at five-on-five while controlling 78.4% of the expected goals, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20242025&amp;game=20143">Natural Stat Trick</a>. The Jets scored twice on the power play - once on a delayed penalty, and once with the goalie pulled late in the game.

WINNIPEG, CANADA - OCTOBER 28: Max Pacioretty #67 and John Tavares #91 of the Toronto Maple Leafs celebrate a first period goal against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre on October 28, 2024 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28831858/related

Tavares nets hat trick as Maple Leafs hand Jets 1st loss

The Lightning honored franchise icon Steven Stamkos with a touching video tribute in his first ga...

The Lightning honored franchise icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> with a touching video tribute in his first game back in Tampa Bay after signing with the Nashville Predators as a free agent this past offseason.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A Lightning icon through and through. ⚡️ <a href="https://t.co/0x2QGKQ2in">pic.twitter.com/0x2QGKQ2in</a>— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) <a href="https://twitter.com/TBLightning/status/1851048651948192135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Stamkos was visibly emotional while the video aired at Amalie Arena and received a lengthy standing ovation afterward.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Stammer with a warm welcome back to Tampa 💙 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ESPNPlus</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/S5tPrXCygm">https://t.co/S5tPrXCygm</a> <a href="https://t.co/YMhYnmWseG">pic.twitter.com/YMhYnmWseG</a>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1851051202915467308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"Pretty weird night, pretty emotional," Stamkos said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/jayRecher/status/1851091881913897163">WDAE's Jay Recher</a>. "But once the tribute happened, you kind of settle into the game and focus on what you need to do to help your team win."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old recorded a pair of assists in Nashville's 3-2 overtime loss Monday. He's managed a goal and two assists in nine games this season."Where it all began as an 18-year-old kid is right here," Stamkos said. "I grew up from a boy to a man, a Stanley Cup champion, a husband, a father, a son. Most of my life has been here, so it's definitely emotional."Stamkos spent 16 seasons with the Lightning and is the franchise's all-time leader in games played (1,082), goals (555), and points (1,137). He captained the Bolts to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021.

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 28: Former Tampa Bay Lightning Steven Stamkos #91 of the Nashville Predators warms up in his first game back to Amalie Arena against the Tampa Bay Lightning on October 28, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28829479/related

Lightning honor Stamkos in return to Tampa Bay

The San Jose Sharks entered the NHL record books for all the wrong reasons.  San Jose fell 7-3 to...

The San Jose Sharks entered the NHL record books for all the wrong reasons.San Jose fell 7-3 to the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday to become the first team ever to open consecutive seasons with at least nine straight losses.The Sharks are now 0-7-2. They started the 2023-24 campaign 0-10-1 before finding the win column en route to a last-place finish in the NHL.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>San Jose has been outscored 39-18 this season.The Sharks were once one of the league's most consistent franchises, only missing the postseason twice between 1998 and 2019. This season would mark the sixth straight year without a playoff appearance barring a miraculous turnaround.The club has been without No. 1 pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a> since the season opener due to a hip injury.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 26: Vitek Vanecek #41 of the San Jose Sharks looks on during the first period against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena on October 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28809872/related

Sharks set dubious record with 9th straight loss to open season

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Saturday that the Bruins and Brad Marchand are "getting cl...

<a href="https://x.com/Sportsnet/status/1850345203783094489">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a> reported Saturday that the Bruins and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a> are "getting closer on an extension" that's expected to be for three years, but Boston's captain doesn't see it the same way."That report from Elliotte is false," Marchand said, adding he won't discuss his contract status through the media.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Brad Marchand denies the report that he is close to a three-year extension. <a href="https://t.co/n3O3YX4WGB">pic.twitter.com/n3O3YX4WGB</a>— Scott McLaughlin (@smclaughlin9) <a href="https://twitter.com/smclaughlin9/status/1850363899284963528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Marchand is in the final season of an eight-year, $49-million contract he signed in 2016.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>A three-year extension would keep Marchand, 36, in Boston through his age-39 campaign. <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a> projects he would earn $7.173 million annually on a three-year deal.Marchand scored the overtime winner Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs for his first goal of the campaign and now has six points in nine games. He's notched 67 points in each of the last two seasons.The Halifax, Nova Scotia, native has spent his entire career with the Bruins after the club drafted him in the third round in 2006. He won a Stanley Cup in 2011 and ranks fifth in franchise history in games played (1,038) and points (935). Marchand was named captain in 2023 following Patrice Bergeron's retirement.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 10: Brad Marchand #63 of the Boston Bruins skates against the Montreal Canadiens during the first period at the TD Garden on October 10, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bruins won 6-4.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28807653/related

Bruins' Marchand denies report of extension progress

St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas will be re-evaluated in six weeks after suffering a fracture...

St. Louis Blues center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6443" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6443">Robert Thomas</a> will be re-evaluated in six weeks after suffering a fractured ankle Tuesday against the Winnipeg Jets.Thomas appeared to suffer the injury by blocking a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a> point shot, though he did return for a couple of shifts afterward.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Robert Thomas had two shifts after this shot block early in the third period. <a href="https://t.co/N42yAtT6KL">pic.twitter.com/N42yAtT6KL</a>— Matthew DeFranks (@MDeFranks) <a href="https://twitter.com/MDeFranks/status/1848931514542694721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"Unfortunate news," head coach Drew Bannister said, according to <a href="https://x.com/jprutherford/status/1849142694104224217">The Athletic's Jeremy Rutherford</a>. "The timing of it, I thought he played a great game last night. It's going to be a team effort, not one player. ... You can't make up for the player, but as a group, we can make up for it." <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thomas led the Blues with a career-high 86 points last season and was named an All-Star for the first time in his career. The 25-year-old has managed six points in seven games this year.He's once again been centering St. Louis' top line in 2024-25, most recently between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5678" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5678">Jordan Kyrou</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2086" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2086">Brandon Saad</a>. The Blues' depth down the middle will be tested in Thomas' absence. They're already playing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5573" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5573">Pavel Buchnevich</a> - a winger for the majority of his career - as the second-line center. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/589" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/589">Brayden Schenn</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2601" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2601">Radek Faksa</a> have been centering the third and fourth lines, respectively. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9214" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9214">Dylan Holloway</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10684" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10684">Zachary Bolduc</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7698" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7698">Alexandre Texier</a> are options from the active roster to shift from wing to the middle. Top center prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13837" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13837">Dalibor Dvorsky</a>, who's tallied four points in five AHL games so far, could be a recall candidate.St. Louis also activated center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3965" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3965">Oskar Sundqvist</a> from injured reserve on Wednesday. He hasn't played since suffering a torn ACL in March.

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 10: Robert Thomas #18 of the St. Louis Blues in action against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center on October 10, 2024 in San Jose, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28761114/related

Blues' Thomas out at least 6 weeks with fractured ankle

Utah Hockey Club's blue line has taken a major hit early in the season.  Sean Durzi underwent rig...

Utah Hockey Club's blue line has taken a major hit early in the season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9815" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9815">Sean Durzi</a> underwent right shoulder surgery and will miss four-to-six months, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8622" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8622">John Marino</a> is expected to be out for three-to-four months after having a procedure on his lower back, the team announced Wednesday.Durzi and Marino - both right-shot defenders - were expected to be Utah's No. 2 and 3 defensemen this season behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5594">Mikhail Sergachev</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10909" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10909">Michael Kesselring</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/997" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/997">Robert Bortuzzo</a>, and lefty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6550" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6550">Juuso Valimaki</a> have manned the right side of the team's blue line in their absences.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In a related move, Utah recalled one of its top prospects, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12745" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12745">Maveric Lamoureux</a>, on Wednesday. The 6-foot-7, right-shot defenseman has scored twice and added a helper in four AHL games this season. He was drafted 29th overall in 2022.Durzi, 26, managed a pair of assists in four games before going down. He led all Arizona Coyotes defenseman in points (41) and ice time (22:43) last season and inked a four-year, $24-million contract in the summer.Marino was projected to play a key shutdown role but has yet to suit up in the 2024-25 campaign. Utah acquired Marino and a fourth-round pick from the New Jersey Devils this offseason in exchange for two second-round picks.Despite the blows on defense, Utah is off to a 4-2-1 start in its inaugural campaign.

NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 14: Utah Hockey Club defenseman Sean Durzi (50) warms up before a game between the Utah Hockey Club and New Jersey Devils on October 14, 2024 at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28761113/related

Utah's Durzi out 4-6 months, Marino to miss 3-4 months

Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett wasn't pleased with his team's effort in its 5-1 thrashing a...

Florida Panthers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a> wasn't pleased with his team's effort in its 5-1 thrashing at the hands of the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday."Right at the start, I thought we looked pretty good. Then they got a couple and we kind of just got away from our game, got off the forecheck," Bennett <a href="https://www.nhl.com/panthers/video/fla-vs-min-postgame-interview-bennett-10-22-24-6363619665112">said</a> postgame. "We were a little too soft tonight. We need to be a little bit more physical and more engaged in the game. We're just going to regroup after that one."Bennett scored Florida's lone goal in the contest, but he was also responsible for the only two penalties of the game - one of which led to a Wild power-play goal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Florida did out-hit Minnesota 55-26 and controlled 57.1% of the shot attempts, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>. But Bennett believes his team can be better."I think the main thing is just our compete level tonight wasn't there," the 28-year-old said. "That's not normal Florida Panther hockey. That's an easy fix."Bennett has stepped up early in the season with captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3004" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3004">Aleksander Barkov</a> sidelined - he's tied for the team lead with five goals in eight games.Head coach Paul Maurice, fresh off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3105871" href="https://thescore.com/news/3105871">signing</a> a multi-year extension with the club, took the blame for the team's poor performance."It's on me, that's my job," Maurice <a href="https://www.nhl.com/panthers/video/postgame-paul-maurice-10-22-24-6363619282112">said</a>. "I really only have one team (to get) ready to play and we weren't ready to play."The reigning Stanley Cup champions are off a 4-3-1 start on the campaign. The Panthers have been a bit leaky defensively, ranking 25th in goals against per game. Goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a> was pulled in Tuesday's contest and now owns an .875 save percentage on the year.

SUNRISE, FL - OCTOBER 22: Florida Panthers Sam Bennett (9) in action during the game between the Minnesota Wild and the Florida Panthers on Tuesday October 22, 2024 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28760998/related

Bennett: Panthers played 'too soft' in blowout loss to Wild

For some NHLers, there's more at stake in the first few months of the season than simply helping ...

For some NHLers, there's more at stake in the first few months of the season than simply helping their teams win games - they're auditioning for a chance to represent their country at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament in February.The competition will be the first league-run international event since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Each competing country - the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland - will announce its roster between Nov. 29 and Dec. 2.Which players are trending up and which are trending down in the early stages of 2024-25? Players are listed positionally and then alphabetically below.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Trending up 📈</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/cropped_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750974/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177424017.jpg?ts=1729528297 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Vitor Munhoz / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>F Cole Caufield 🇺🇸Caufield wasn't a Team USA favorite heading into the season because he hadn't truly broken through as an elite sniper. But he's exploded for six goals in seven games. If the Canadiens winger can maintain a 40-goal pace, he has a chance to earn a roster spot. Of note, teenaged Caufield and Jack Hughes shared a line for two years at the US National Team Development Program.F Erik Haula 🇫🇮Finland won't have as many notable cuts as other nations, but Haula is still trying to ensure he's on the team. With six points in nine games, the 33-year-old is on pace for his best offensive season. Haula's defensive reliability would make him a useful piece for Suomi's bottom-six forward group.F Clayton Keller 🇺🇸Keller, Utah's first captain, is driving offense from every angle this season. He transports the puck - racking up 9.9 controlled exits per game (ninth among all NHLers) and possessing it in the offensive zone for 1:03 per game (also ninth). He sets up teammates - four assists off 4.3 slot passes per game (third). And he scores - four goals off 1.43 inner-slot shots per game (tied for 15th). Any international side could use a dual-threat winger like Keller.F Sam Reinhart 🇨🇦Reinhart is trying to prove his 57-goal outburst from a season ago was no fluke. He's tied for third in the league with 12 points through eight games - and most of those came with Aleksander Barkov injured. At this rate, Reinhart is playing his way into a spot on Canada's top line with Connor McDavid.F Mark Scheifele 🇨🇦Scheifele's one of those guys who tends to get glossed over on Canada's long list of high-end forwards. He produces every year and has accumulated five goals and three assists in six games this season, yet he's far from a shoo-in because he doesn't have strong defensive impacts. If Scheifele can't make it onto Canada's power play, does he do enough otherwise to justify a spot?F Mark Stone 🇨🇦Multiple long-term injuries over the last few years made it difficult to project Stone onto Team Canada, but so far so good in 2024-25. He's played in all seven of Vegas' games and racked up 12 points. The former Selke Trophy finalist is a true "gamer" and could be a great fit in a depth role.F Tom Wilson 🇨🇦Wilson would bring a different element to Canada's forward group - an imposing power forward who can strike fear into the opposition with his physicality. Having an X-factor player like Wilson could also be crucial against a USA squad that'll have the Tkachuk brothers wreaking havoc. He's off to a great start offensively with five goals in five games.D Rasmus Andersson 🇸🇪<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/cropped_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/w220xh124_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/w320xh180_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/w640xh360_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/w768xh432_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597201/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1740770762.jpg?ts=1697930346 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Andersson's helping drive Calgary's early-season heater. The all-situations defender has put up eight points in six games while leading the Flames in ice time (23:48 a night). One problem - Sweden has a ton of options on the back end. Gustav Forsling, Victor Hedman, and Erik Karlsson have already been named to the roster, and Rasmus Dahlin is pretty much a lock. Andersson's in a battle with Mattias Ekholm, Jonas Brodin, Hampus Lindholm, and Adam Larsson for the final three spots.D Noah Dobson 🇨🇦The 6-foot-4 Dobson is approaching lock status on Canada's blue line. After finishing eighth in Norris Trophy voting a year ago, he's recorded four assists in five games with strong underlying numbers. Further helping his case is that other Canadian right-shot defenders are trending in the opposite direction, including the injured Drew Doughty.D Brock Faber 🇺🇸Faber set himself up for Team USA contention with a Calder Trophy-worthy debut, and he's done nothing this season to stray from that path. The smooth-skating, two-way workhorse is attempting to earn a spot on the right side behind Adam Fox and Charlie McAvoy (Quinn Hughes and Jaccob Slavin fill out the presumed top four). Faber's competition includes righty John Carlson and lefties Noah Hanifin, Jake Sanderson, Zach Werenski, and Mikey Anderson.D Josh Morrissey 🇨🇦Canada must find balance on its blue line. Management can't take all offensive defensemen. But Morrissey will be difficult to leave off at this point, as he's arguably been the Jets' most valuable skater through their 6-0-0 start. Morrissey and Dobson could wind up being the team's second pairing.G Sam Montembeault 🇨🇦The most intriguing position battle in the entire tournament is Canada's goaltending. Montreal starter Montembeault - a relative unknown to the casual NHL fan - is making a strong case despite getting shelled Tuesday. He leads all Canadian netminders with 2.25 goals saved above expected this season after finishing second behind front-runner Jordan Binnington a year ago.G Jake Oettinger 🇺🇸The Americans have four goalies vying for three spots. Connor Hellebuyck, who's followed up a Vezina Trophy win with a .948 save percentage through five starts, will be on the squad. That leaves Jeremy Swayman, Thatcher Demko, and Oettinger. Swayman's a tier above the others, while Demko's season-opening injury has given Oettinger the inside track to that third spot. The Stars stud has not disappointed, making 143 saves on 152 shots so far.<h3>Trending down 📉</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/cropped_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750975/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178634999.jpg?ts=1729528434 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Glenn James / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>F Viktor Arvidsson 🇸🇪Arvidsson could bring a lot of energy to Sweden's bottom-six forward group, but his lack of production thus far likely has him on the outside looking in. He's failed to record a point through seven games with the Oilers despite riding shotgun with either Leon Draisaitl or Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, the latter of whom is also playing his way off of Canada's radar.F Alex DeBrincat 🇺🇸DeBrincat's the perfect example of a player whose 4 Nations candidacy rests solely on recent performance. If he's filling the net at an insane rate, he's all of a sudden on Team USA's radar. If he's not, he's a complete afterthought. With two goals and two assists in six games for the Red Wings, DeBrincat is closer to the latter. He hasn't done enough to grab management's attention.F Zach Hyman 🇨🇦Virtually every roster projection during the offseason included Hyman on the top line with McDavid, and rightly so. A relentless forechecker and puck hound, Hyman potted 53 goals during the 2023-24 regular season and added a league-high 16 in the playoffs alongside McDavid in Edmonton. However, he's pointless in seven games so far, creating a fraction of doubt about his spot on the roster.F Patrick Kane 🇺🇸Kane, who we <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3073754" href="https://thescore.com/news/3073754">recently ranked</a> as the fifth-best player in the post-Wayne Gretzky era, is arguably the greatest American to lace up a pair of hockey skates. Heck, half of Team USA's projected roster grew up on his YouTube highlights. But that veteran status - Kane turns 36 in November - is a double-edged sword in this context. No longer a star, let alone superstar, he'd be an odd fit in the bottom six. Could he be a power-play specialist at 4 Nations?F Gabriel Landeskog 🇸🇪Sweden's management group likely needs to see Landeskog play an NHL game - and look at least somewhat like his old self - to guarantee him a spot on the roster. Landeskog missed the last two seasons while undergoing three knee surgeries, and though he said he hopes to play early this season, his return doesn't appear imminent.F Steven Stamkos 🇨🇦<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/cropped_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750633/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178636883.jpg?ts=1729375358 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> John Russell / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Stamkos doesn't possess the all-around game of other forwards competing for a spot on Team Canada, so he needs to be tearing it up offensively to have a chance. That hasn't been the case so far in his first season with the Predators, as he's produced just one goal and zero assists in six games.F Carter Verhaeghe 🇨🇦Verhaeghe's lethal shot, big-game heroics, and overall versatility make him an appealing bottom-of-the-lineup option for Canada. There's no margin for error, however, and the winger has yet to score on 55 shot attempts. His five-on-five numbers aren't pretty, either - the Panthers have been outscored 7-3 and own a 50.6% expected goals rate in Verhaeghe's 127 five-on-five minutes.D Evan Bouchard 🇨🇦With Cale Makar all but locked in as the PP1 quarterback, Canada might prefer "safer" defensemen over Bouchard, who can dazzle offensively but also makes poor decisions defensively. With little offensive production so far - one goal, one assist in seven games - Bouchard is making management's decision easier.D Jani Hakanpaa 🇫🇮The best ability's availability, and Hakanpaa's currently unavailable. The behemoth defenseman is working his way back from a major knee injury, and the Maple Leafs haven't offered a timeline for his return. Finland's blue line is thin. Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell were early picks. The other spots will be filled by some combination of Hakanpaa, Niko Mikkola, Rasmus Ristolainen, Henri Jokiharju, Juuso Valimaki, Olli Maatta, and Urho Vaakanainen.D Noah Hanifin 🇺🇸Hanifin led all Golden Knights skaters in ice time during last year's playoffs, but his game has taken a slight step back to begin 2024-25. His minutes are down and he's getting hemmed into his own end (40.1% expected goals share). USA's depth makes Hanifin a long shot at this point.G Adin Hill 🇨🇦Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">went out of his way</a> to start Hill in early-season games against the Lightning (Jon Cooper is Canada's coach) and Blues (Doug Armstrong is part of Canada's management group). The showcase hasn't paid off for Hill. The 2023 Stanley Cup winner owns a .851 save percentage and negative goals saved above expected rate in four games.G Stuart Skinner 🇨🇦Skinner put himself in contention to start for Canada with some strong performances on the big stage in the Western Conference Final and Cup Final, but he's struggled out of the gate for the second straight year, stopping minus-2 goals above expected. His volatility may make him too risky for management's liking.(Analytics and tracking data sources: Evolving-Hockey and Sportlogiq)

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28759816/related

4 Nations stock report: Which way are bubble players trending?

The St. Louis Blues inked winger Jake Neighbours to a two-year contract extension with an average...

The St. Louis Blues inked winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9206" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9206">Jake Neighbours</a> to a two-year contract extension with an average annual value of $3.75 million, the team announced Tuesday.Neighbours enjoyed a breakout year in 2023-24, producing 27 goals and 11 assists in 77 games. He's managed two goals and a helper in six contests this season.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jake Neighbours, extended 2x$3.75M by STL, is a complementary scoring winger who got a lot of one-time and deflection goals playing with talented playmakers last year. Willing to battle and throw the body. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STLBlues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STLBlues</a> <a href="https://t.co/SvPcZzBPZn">pic.twitter.com/SvPcZzBPZn</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1848752206721290385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 22-year-old is currently playing out the final year of his entry-level deal before the extension begins in 2025-26. He'll be a restricted free agent after the extension and won't become unrestricted until 2029.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Blues drafted Neighbours 26th overall in 2020.

SAN JOSE, CA - OCTOBER 10: St. Louis Blues left wing Jake Neighbours (63) during the NHL game between the St. Louis Blues and the San Jose Sharks on October 10, 2024 at the SAP Center in San Jose, CA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28750992/related

Blues sign Neighbours to 2-year, $7.5M extension

Montreal Canadiens winger Juraj Slafkovsky will be re-evaluated in one week due to an upper-body ...

Montreal Canadiens winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12706" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12706">Juraj Slafkovsky</a> will be re-evaluated in one week due to an upper-body injury, the team announced Tuesday.It's unclear exactly how Slafkovsky suffered the ailment.The 20-year-old has been productive so far, tallying a goal and five assists in six games this season while playing on the top line with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8598" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8598">Kirby Dach</a> took Slafkovsky's place on the top line during Monday's practice and projects to play there when the Canadiens take on the New York Rangers on Tuesday. Additionally, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10920" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10920">Michael Pezzetta</a> will make his season debut.Montreal also plays the St. Louis Blues on Saturday and the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday.The 2022 first overall pick, Slafkovsky enjoyed a breakout 50-point season in 2023-24. He caught fire in the second half with 16 goals and 19 assists in his final 41 games.

ELMONT, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 19: Juraj Slafkovsky #20 of the Montreal Canadiens misses a shoot-out attempt against Semyon Varlamov #40 of the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on October 19, 2024 in Elmont, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28750774/related

Canadiens' Slafkovsky out at least 1 week with upper-body injury

Rookie phenom Matvei Michkov will get a chance to live out a childhood dream and play against one...

Rookie phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13822" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13822">Matvei Michkov</a> will get a chance to live out a childhood dream and play against one of his idols, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>, on Tuesday when the Philadelphia Flyers take on the Washington Capitals in the first game of a home-and-home."It's going to be unique and historical to be playing against such a player," Michkov said Monday through an interpreter, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/matvei-michkov-ready-for-honor-of-facing-alex-ovechkin">NHL.com's Adam Kimelman</a>. "It's an honor."Michkov, born in December 2004, was an infant when Ovechkin debuted for the Capitals in 2005.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ovechkin, who's just 40 goals back of Wayne Gretzky's all-time record, is a legend everywhere, of course, but especially in Russia."Everybody watched him when he was younger," Michkov said. "I watched him when I was younger. He's one of the greatest players ever and for sure one of the best."Michkov, 19, has adapted well to the North American game, producing two goals and two assists in five games so far in his rookie campaign. He's gained the trust of head coach John Tortorella, averaging 18:35 of ice time per game - the second-most among Flyers forwards behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4574" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4574">Travis Konecny</a>.Ovechkin admitted that he hasn't been able to watch Michkov yet but has heard great things."I'm happy for him," Ovechkin said. "He's a talented guy. He's in good hands over here. He just has to be patient and play his game, and everything's going to be fine."

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 17: Matvei Michkov #39 of the Philadelphia Flyers looks on during the second period of a game against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on October 17, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28750655/related

Michkov: 'An honor' to play against Ovechkin for 1st time

The Chicago Blackhawks are expected to make forward Philipp Kurashev a surprise healthy scratch T...

The Chicago Blackhawks are expected to make forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7738" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7738">Philipp Kurashev</a> a surprise healthy scratch Tuesday against the Vancouver Canucks, head coach Luke Richardson announced Monday."To me, he's a guy that I've gotten used to counting on, and he can't play the way he did the last game for me to continue to count on him like that," Richardson said, per <a href="https://x.com/CRoumeliotis/status/1848437500991373448">WGN 720's Charlie Roumeliotis</a>. "I know he'll use it as a bit of a wake-up call and be better."Richardson <a href="https://x.com/CRoumeliotis/status/1848436652936728824">added</a>: "We just need more from him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kurashev enjoyed a breakout year in 2023-24, finishing second on the Blackhawks behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> with 54 points. He played primarily on the wing with Bedard and veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/860" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/860">Nick Foligno</a>, but he's been asked this season to center the second line away from Bedard, and it hasn't gone so well.The 25-year-old has managed just one goal and zero assists in six games. Kurashev was minus-2 during Saturday's 4-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres and is minus-6 on the season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3254" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3254">Andreas Athanasiou</a> centered the second line between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3250" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3250">Tyler Bertuzzi</a> in Kurashev's place during Monday's practice.

EDMONTON, CANADA OCTOBER 12: Philipp Kurashev #23 of the Chicago Blackhawks in action against the Edmonton Oilers during the game at Rogers Place on October 12, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28745823/related

Richardson: Blackhawks 'need more' from Kurashev

New York Islanders forward Anthony Duclair is out long term after suffering an injury Saturday ag...

New York Islanders forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3235" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3235">Anthony Duclair</a> is out long term after suffering an injury Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens, general manager Lou Lamoriello said Monday, per <a href="https://x.com/AGrossNewsday/status/1848370527875838143">Newsday's Andrew Gross</a>.Lamoriello added that the injury isn't season-ending and that the team will know more on Tuesday after further testing.Duclair went down awkwardly and appeared to be favoring his right leg as he was helped off the ice.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Duclair hurt <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isles</a> <a href="https://t.co/RNHLqyd652">pic.twitter.com/RNHLqyd652</a>— YESUV🚙 (@IslesWhiteSUV) <a href="https://twitter.com/IslesWhiteSUV/status/1847806934776250465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Islanders signed Duclair to a four-year contract worth $3.5 million annually this past offseason. He was skating on the team's top line with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4720" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4720">Mathew Barzal</a> and recorded two goals and an assist through five games.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9979" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9979">Simon Holmstrom</a> skated in Duclair's spot on the top line during Monday's practice.Duclair has averaged 21 goals and 23 assists per 82 contests in his career. The Islanders are the ninth team he's suited up for across his 11 NHL seasons.

ELMONT, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 19: Bo Horvat #14 of the New York Islanders (L) assists Anthony Duclair #11 off the ice following a third period injury against the Montreal Canadiens at UBS Arena on October 19, 2024 in Elmont, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28743200/related

Islanders' Duclair out long term with injury

Is it time to panic in Denver?  That's the question everyone is asking as the star-studded Colora...

Is it time to panic in Denver?That's the question everyone is asking as the star-studded Colorado Avalanche find themselves in an 0-4-0 hole to start the season.Key absences have undoubtedly played a major part. Colorado was already without forwards Gabriel Landeskog, Valeri Nichushkin, and Artturi Lehkonen to begin the season. More injuries are piling up: winger Jonathan Drouin missed the last three contests, and top-pairing defenseman Devon Toews sat out for the last two. Miles Wood got hurt during Wednesday's 5-3 loss to the Boston Bruins.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It's more than just the injuries, though. The Avalanche have struggled in their own end. Their net-front defense was soft against the Bruins, constantly leaving white jerseys wide open. Despite what the underlying numbers say (Colorado controlled 58.7% of the expected goals at five-on-five), the Avs had no business winning this game. They got off to a sluggish start, and the ice was tilted in Boston's favor until Colorado was trailing late and pressing to even things up.Similar issues have popped up in the Avalanche's other losses. The 6-2 defeat to Patrick Roy's New York Islanders on Monday was arguably their worst showing, with perennial Norris Trophy candidate Cale Makar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3099484" href="https://thescore.com/news/3099484">shouldering the blame</a> for what he described as "stupid, childish mistakes." In Saturday's 6-4 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, the goaltending thoroughly let them down. Both Alexandar Georgiev and Justus Annunen let in goals that NHL netminders simply cannot allow.The season-opening 8-4 loss the Vegas Golden Knights was a mix of a poor goaltending and sloppy defensive play.If you're seeing a trend here, your eyes aren't deceiving you. The Avalanche are surrendering goals at an alarming rate: 25 against through four games, or 6.25 per contest - by far the worst mark in the league. Their penalty kill is also the worst in the league, operating at a paltry 54.6%.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/cropped_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750272/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178808434.jpg?ts=1729182499 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ashley Potts / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Georgiev has started all four games and was yanked in two of them. His .800 save percentage is the worst among goalies who've started more than one game and his minus-8.87 goals saved above expected is also the worst among all NHL netminders. This isn't exactly a new issue: Georgiev won a league-high 38 games last season despite a subpar .897 save percentage.Annunen has allowed four goals on 17 shots in his two relief appearances this season (.765 save percentage), but it'd be wise to give him an extended look. The 24-year-old flashed some promise last year with a .928 save percentage in 14 games.The Avalanche don't have a healthy, experienced goalie in the AHL worthy of a recall, either. Waiver claim Kaapo Kahkonen is currently injured, but it would be worth trying him out when he's back. If the goaltending doesn't improve fast, Colorado may have to explore external options. Trades aren't easy to pull off this early in the year, but Martin Jones is still an unrestricted free agent. The 34-year-old journeyman was surprisingly solid for the Toronto Maple Leafs last season, stopping 4.22 goals above expected in 22 appearances.The other move the Avalanche could make to try and turn things around is a coaching change, but that might still be premature. Jared Bednar is the third-longest tenured coach in the league, the winningest coach in franchise history, and led the team to the Stanley Cup three years ago. But if things continue to unravel, president of hockey operations Joe Sakic might have no choice. Sometimes a fresh voice can work wonders (see the 2023-24 Edmonton Oilers).The Avalanche are the ninth team in the salary-cap era to begin the season 0-4-0. Only two of them made the postseason (one during the expanded 2020 playoffs) and five of them fired their coach midseason.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Start</th>
<th>Playoffs?</th>
<th>Coaching change?</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2022-23 Sharks</td>
<td>0-5-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2021-22 Canadiens</td>
<td>0-5-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2019-20 Wild</td>
<td>0-4-0</td>
<td>Yes*</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2019-20 Sharks</td>
<td>0-4-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2015-16 Blue Jackets</td>
<td>0-8-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2015-16 Oilers</td>
<td>0-4-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2008-09 Ducks</td>
<td>0-4-0</td>
<td>Yes</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2007-08 Thrashers</td>
<td>0-6-0</td>
<td>No</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>*2019-20 Wild were 10th in the Western Conference via points percentage when the regular season came to a halt due to the pandemic and were included in the expanded postseason format.Avalanche fans can cling to the 2008-09 Ducks as an example. They were similarly two years removed from a Stanley Cup and still boasted much of the same team. Goaltender J.S. Giguere also struggled early in that season before backup Jonas Hiller ultimately took over the No. 1 job.Still, no team in NHL history has won the Stanley Cup after an 0-4-0 start, per <a href="https://x.com/SNstats/status/1846773752773718219">Sportsnet</a>. While the odds are stacked against the Avalanche, this is still a team led by one of the NHL's top cores. Both Makar and Nathan MacKinnon are top five players in the league. Mikko Rantanen is probably just outside the top 10. If any team can dig themselves out of a hole, it's this one. The stars are all producing, too: Makar has eight points while MacKinnon and Rantanen have seven each. The power play is one of the lone positives, humming at a league-best 50%.Some reinforcements would help. Thankfully, Toews and Wood are considered day-to-day. But Drouin and Lehkonen won't be re-evaluated until Oct. 28. Nichushkin can't return from his suspension until mid-November at the earliest. Landeskog said he hopes to return early this season, but that's no guarantee, and it remains to be seen how effective he'll be after two missed seasons and three knee surgeries. His presence alone would be a big boost, though.For now, the Avalanche will have to rely on those left in the room. While the goaltenders absolutely need to start making the routine saves, the skaters must bear down defensively and make the opposition earn it. They cannot be giving up any freebies.It may not be time to sound the alarm just yet. It's worth noting that Colorado went 1-3-0 to start the 2021-22 campaign - and eventually won the Stanley Cup. However, if the Avalanche can't take care of business in their next two games against the inferior Ducks and Sharks, it'll be time to smash the panic button.(Analytics sources: Evolving-Hockey, Natural Stat Trick)

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28685948/related

What's wrong with the Avalanche?

The Pittsburgh Penguins assigned forward Rutger McGroarty to AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, the team ...

The Pittsburgh Penguins assigned forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12720" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12720">Rutger McGroarty</a> to AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, the team announced Wednesday.McGroarty failed to record a point in three NHL appearances while averaging 11:37 per contest.The Penguins acquired McGroarty from the Winnipeg Jets in an offseason trade in exchange for prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13824" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13824">Brayden Yager</a>. McGroarty had reportedly informed the Jets he wouldn't sign with them over concerns that he wasn't promised a path to NHL playing time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Winnipeg drafted McGroarty 14th overall in 2022. He recorded 52 points in 36 games at the University of Michigan last season.The Penguins and Jets meet in Winnipeg on Sunday.

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 09: Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rutger McGroarty (2) handles the puck during the third period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers on October 9, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28678949/related

Penguins send McGroarty down to AHL

Ottawa Senators defenseman Artem Zub is expected to miss at least a week after suffering a concus...

Ottawa Senators defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9911">Artem Zub</a> is expected to miss at least a week after suffering a concussion Monday against the Los Angeles Kings, head coach Travis Green announced Wednesday, per <a href="https://x.com/clahanna/status/1846596599239061543">TSN's Claire Hanna</a>.Zub left the game after taking a hard hit from Kings forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9747" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9747">Tanner Jeannot</a>. Senators enforcer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5722" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5722">Zack MacEwen</a> came to Zub's defense shortly thereafter.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tanner Jeannot levels Artem Zub then mixes it up with Zack MacEwen.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoKingsGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoKingsGo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoSensGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoSensGo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OTTvsLAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OTTvsLAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/vAmG5xKXVF">pic.twitter.com/vAmG5xKXVF</a>— LA Royalty (@LARoyalty1967) <a href="https://twitter.com/LARoyalty1967/status/1845881724409929769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Zub had been playing alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> on the team's top defense pairing to begin the season. Veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/763" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/763">Travis Hamonic</a> skated in Zub's place during Wednesday's practice.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
No Linus Ullmark, Artem Zub or Ridly Greig at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sens</a> practice. Lines as follows: Tkachuk-Stützle-Giroux Gregor-Norris-Batherson Perron-Pinto-Amadio Cousins-Gaudette-MacEwen Sanderson-Hamonic Chabot-Jensen Kleven-JBD Forsberg Sogaard— Claire Hanna (@clahanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/clahanna/status/1846575492117275037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Zub recorded a career-high 25 points in 69 games last season. While not flashy offensively, he's a trustworthy shutdown defender.Green <a href="https://x.com/clahanna/status/1846597215512375649">said</a> that goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a>, who missed Monday's game with a strain, skated Wednesday and is "progressing well."The 2-1-0 Senators are back in action Thursday against the New Jersey Devils.

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 14: Artem Zub #2 of the Ottawa Senators skates against the Los Angeles Kings at Canadian Tire Centre on October 14, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28678017/related

Senators' Zub out at least 1 week with concussion

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/josh-wegman/content_cards

Josh Wegman

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/john-matisz/content_cards