Monday was a big night for Carolina Hurricanes rookies.  Logan Stankoven scored the game-winner i...

Monday was a big night for Carolina Hurricanes rookies.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10707" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10707">Logan Stankoven</a> scored the game-winner in a 3-0 victory in Game 4, beating <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a> upstairs off the rush. But the partial break wouldn't have materialized without a quick, no-look feed by fellow rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9243" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9243">Alexander Nikishin</a>.The assist was the first career point for Nikishin, who was playing in his third NHL game after coming over to North America in April following the conclusion of his KHL season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He's been an absolute monster for us," Stankoven told <a href="https://x.com/NHL_On_TNT/status/1927197859272642569">TNT</a> postgame. "It's not easy for him coming overseas so quickly and getting integrated with us. Just a great play by him there, a quick up. Nice to pot that. He's been unbelievable. When one guy goes down, it's nice to have guys like that step up."With blue-liners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4610" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4610">Jalen Chatfield</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6471" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6471">Sean Walker</a> out with injuries, Nikishin logged 18:54 in Game 3 and 18:53 in Game 4. Fellow rookie defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10627" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10627">Scott Morrow</a> was limited to just 8:33 on Monday.Nikishin, 23, doesn't speak English but has been paired with fellow Russian <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1906" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1906">Dmitry Orlov</a> for the last two contests to help ease the transition."He played great," teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4716" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4716">Jaccob Slavin</a> <a href="https://x.com/NHL_On_TNT/status/1927199190116909056">said</a>. "Huge congrats to him for getting his first point. He played a heck of a game. Came in here, stepped up, played some big minutes. He's got a good head on his shoulders. Lots of smiles for him. He's having fun out there."The Hurricanes drafted Nikishin in the third round in 2020, but he quickly skyrocketed up their prospect rankings. The 6-foot-4, 216-pounder led all KHL defensemen in points in two of the last three seasons.

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - MAY 26: Alexander Nikishin #21 of the Carolina Hurricanes skates with the puck against Jesper Boqvist #70 of the Florida Panthers during the third period in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena on May 26, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Stankoven praises Nikishin: 'He's been an absolute monster for us'

The Carolina Hurricanes avoided elimination by blanking the Florida Panthers 3-0 in Monday's Game...

The Carolina Hurricanes avoided elimination by blanking the Florida Panthers 3-0 in Monday's Game 4.The win ended the Canes' 15-game Eastern Conference Final losing streak that dated back to 2009.Carolina's last win at this stage came June 1, 2006, in Game 7 against the Buffalo Sabres when then-captain Rod Brind'Amour scored the game-winner to send the Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup Final. Brind'Amour, now the club's coach, led the franchise to its only Stanley Cup win that year.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Hurricanes were swept in three straight trips to the conference finals - by the Penguins in 2009, the Bruins in 2019, and the Panthers in 2023 - before dropping the first three games against Florida this year.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a>, who was benched for Game 3 in favor of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12697" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12697">Pyotr Kochetkov</a> following back-to-back poor performances to open the series, bounced back in a huge way with a 20-save shutout.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10707" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10707">Logan Stankoven</a> scored the game-winner with a top-corner snipe midway through the second period. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5681" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5681">Sebastian Aho</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1033" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1033">Jordan Staal</a> added empty-netters.

SUNRISE, FL - MAY 26: Logan Stankoven #22 of the Carolina Hurricanes celebrates his second period goal with teammates Dmitry Orlov #7 and Jordan Staal #11 of the Carolina Hurricanes during Game Four of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on May 26, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Hurricanes win Game 4, snap 15-game Eastern Conference Final skid

Ottawa Charge netminder Gwyneth Philips won the Ilana Kloss playoff MVP award despite her team fa...

Ottawa Charge netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15830" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15830">Gwyneth Philips</a> won the Ilana Kloss playoff MVP award despite her team falling to the Minnesota Frost in the PWHL Finals on Monday.Philips led all PWHL goalies with eight games played, a .952 save percentage, and a 1.23 goals-against average during the postseason. She posted a 4-4 record, with all four of her losses coming in overtime.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gwyneth Philips is your PWHL playoff MVP 🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PWHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PWHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/tUoYl3nNXU">pic.twitter.com/tUoYl3nNXU</a>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1927160623273500726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Philips turned aside 36 of 38 shots in Monday's 2-1 Game 4 loss.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The honor comes on the heels of a stellar rookie campaign for the Northeastern University product. Philips finished fourth among qualified goalies with a .919 save percentage in 15 regular-season games.

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - MAY 24: Gwyneth Philips #33 of the Ottawa Charge reaches for the puck during the second period against the Minnesota Frost at Xcel Energy Center on May 24, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota.

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Charge's Philips named PWHL playoff MVP in losing effort

The Minnesota Frost have gone back-to-back.  The Frost won their second straight Walter Cup on Mo...

The Minnesota Frost have gone back-to-back.The Frost won their second straight Walter Cup on Monday, defeating the Ottawa Charge 2-1 in overtime in Game 4 of the best-of-five PWHL Finals.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15746" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15746">Liz Schepers</a> scored the Cup-clinching winner in overtime.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THE MINNESOTA FROST ARE YOUR 2025 PWHL CHAMPIONS!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PWHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PWHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/6L3Wum1QGi">pic.twitter.com/6L3Wum1QGi</a>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1927157096560116169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Schepers also scored the game-winning goal in Minnesota's Cup-clinching victory in the 2024 PWHL Finals.The Frost jumped out to a 1-0 lead with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15740" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15740">Kelly Pannek</a>'s icebreaker midway through the second. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15820" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15820">Tereza Vanišová</a> notched the equalizer in the third, which forced overtime for the fourth consecutive game of the PWHL Finals.Both goalies were superb Monday, but Minnesota's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15753" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15753">Maddie Rooney</a> outdueled Ottawa's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15830" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15830">Gwyneth Philips</a>, stopping 33 of 34 shots in the victory. Philips turned aside 36 of 38 shots in the game and was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3291977" href="https://thescore.com/news/3291977">named</a> playoff MVP despite the losing effort.The Frost won both of their Walter Cups in underdog fashion, entering the playoffs as the league's No. 4 seed in 2024 and 2025.

ST. PAUL, MN - MAY 26: The Minnesota Frost pose with the Walter Cup after Game Four of the 2025 Walter Cup Finals between the Minnesota Frost and Ottawa Charge on May 26, 2025 at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, MN.

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Frost beat Charge in OT to win 2nd straight Walter Cup

Stars forward Mikko Rantanen heaped praise on Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner after Edmonton's 6...

Stars forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a> heaped praise on Oilers goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6553">Stuart Skinner</a> after Edmonton's 6-1 victory over Dallas in Game 3 of the Western Conference Final on Sunday."I think Skinner was the difference-maker tonight. He was really good," Rantanen told reporters postgame. "He made key saves even when it was 3-1. (Tyler Seguin) had a Grade A in the slot, he makes the save, and 10 seconds later it's 4-1. He was the MVP of the match, I would say."The Stars outshot the Oilers 34-24 and controlled 69.92% of the expected goals at five-on-five, according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>. Dallas was particularly dominant in the second period, racking up 21 shots and 10 high-danger scoring chances, but Skinner stood strong, allowing just one goal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Five-on-five we've got to find a way to finish our chances a little bit more," Rantanen said. "Obviously Skinner's making good saves, but we've got to make life harder for him."It's been a true Jekyll and Hyde postseason for Skinner. When he's struggled, it's been really ugly. But when he's been on his game, he's been nearly unbeatable. Skinner's made eight starts this postseason, posting a 4-4 record. In his four losses he owns a dismal .816 save percentage. But in four wins his save percentage is an otherworldly .991.Stars goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8282" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8282">Jake Oettinger</a>, meanwhile, struggled mightily in Game 3, allowing six goals on 24 shots. Dallas head coach Pete DeBoer was quick to defend his netminder, though."We wouldn't be sitting here in the conference finals without Jake Oettinger and how he's played," DeBoer said. "Tonight was one of those games where they were opportunistic. Then once they got the lead, we're pushing to get back in and there's Grade A's the other way. The one thing I know about Jake Oettinger for me is he's one of the best response goalies in the league. I know he's not going to drag around tonight's game."Oettinger posted a .919 save percentage in Rounds 1 and 2 against the Colorado Avalanche and Winnipeg Jets, but he's struggled with an .842 mark thus far versus the Oilers.Edmonton leads the series 2-1.

EDMONTON, AB - MAY 25: Dallas Stars Right Wing Mikko Rantanen (96) calls for a pass behind Edmonton Oilers Goalie Stuart Skinner (74) in the second period of game three of Stanley Cup Playoffs Conference Final Edmonton Oilers game versus the Dallas Stars on May 25, 2025 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, AB.

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Rantanen: 'Skinner was the difference-maker' in Game 3

Edmonton Oilers winger Connor Brown exited Sunday's Game 3 victory over the Dallas Stars with an ...

Edmonton Oilers winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3202" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3202">Connor Brown</a> exited Sunday's Game 3 victory over the Dallas Stars with an apparent injury.Brown left the contest after taking a hard hit from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1725" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1725">Alex Petrovic</a> in the second period.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Connor Brown went to the dressing room after taking this hit from Alex Petrovic <a href="https://t.co/0dryQmYjMi">pic.twitter.com/0dryQmYjMi</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1926744235664937125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch didn't provide an update on Brown postgame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Petrovic wasn't penalized for the contact.Brown has enjoyed a solid postseason, contributing five goals and three assists in 14 games.Edmonton defeated Dallas 6-1 to take a 2-1 series advantage.

EDMONTON, CANADA - MAY 12: Connor Brown #28 of the Edmonton Oilers in action during Game Four of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Vegas Golden Knights at Rogers Place on May 12, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Oilers' Brown injured in Game 3 after taking hit from Petrovic

The United States won its first gold medal at the IIHF World Championship since 1933, defeating S...

The United States won its first gold medal at the IIHF World Championship since 1933, defeating Switzerland 1-0 in overtime Sunday.Buffalo Sabres star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5611" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5611">Tage Thompson</a> scored the golden goal in the final.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This moment will go down in history 🇺🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MensWorlds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MensWorlds</a> <a href="https://t.co/uYW7vljiFl">pic.twitter.com/uYW7vljiFl</a>— USA Hockey (@usahockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/usahockey/status/1926750528781902234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12746" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12746">Logan Cooley</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4511" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4511">Brady Skjei</a> recorded the assists. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a> stopped all 25 shots he faced for the shutout.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Swiss national team veteran Leonardo Genoni stood tall in the opposite crease, turning aside 39 of 40 shots. Genoni was named tournament MVP after setting the modern-era shutout streak. The 37-year-old finishes the tournament with a .953 save percentage and four shutouts.Outside of the OIympics, this is the second gold medal for the United States. The Americans also won gold at the 1960 Olympics, which, at the time, doubled as the World Championship.It's the second consecutive silver medal for Switzerland, which lost to Czechia in the final a year ago. The Swiss have never won gold.

US forward #92 Logan Cooley (C) celebrates after his team mates US forward #72 Tage Thompson (L) scored the goal to win gold during the overtime of the IIHF Men's Ice Hockey World Championship final match between Switzerland and USA in Stockholm, on May 25, 2025.

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USA beats Switzerland in OT for 1st IIHF Worlds gold since 1933

Switzerland put an end to Denmark's Cinderella run at the IIHF World Hockey Championship on Satur...

Switzerland put an end to Denmark's Cinderella run at the IIHF World Hockey Championship on Saturday, cruising to a 7-0 victory in the semifinals.The Swiss will play the United States in Sunday's gold-medal game. Denmark, which beat Canada in the quarters, will face Sweden for bronze in an attempt to earn its first medal at the tournament.Switzerland is looking to capture its first gold medal at the tournament. The team has won four silver medals, including in 2024, when it lost to Czechia in the gold-medal game.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1826" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1826">Nino Niederreiter</a> was a force for the Swiss, scoring two of the its three goals in the opening period. Ken Jager added the other in the opening frame, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5714" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5714">Denis Malgin</a> scored the lone goal of the second period to make it 4-0. Sandro Schmid, Damien Riat, and Tyler Moy tallied in the third.Swiss national team veteran Leonardo Genoni was stellar in the crease, making 17 saves in the shutout.

Switzerland's forward #22 Nino Niederreiter celebrates his 1-0 during the IIHF Men's Ice Hockey World Championship semi-final match between Switzerland and Denmark in Stockholm, on May 24, 2025.

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Switzerland routs Denmark, will play U.S. in gold-medal game

Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov started Game 3 against the Florida Panthers on Sat...

Carolina Hurricanes goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12697" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12697">Pyotr Kochetkov</a> started Game 3 against the Florida Panthers on Saturday.Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour said prior to the contest that he wants to "change the vibe" with the Canes trailing 2-0 in the series.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a> has started 11 of Carolina's 12 games this postseason, but the veteran has been shelled for nine goals on 36 shots so far in the Eastern Conference Final. He entered the series with a .937 save percentage in the playoffs, but it's now down to .907.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kochetkov entered Game 2 in relief of Andersen and stopped four of five shots. He posted an .897 save percentage in 47 starts during the regular season. The 25-year-old owns a 2-4 record with an .871 save percentage in nine career playoff appearances.

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 29: Pyotr Kochetkov #52 of the Carolina Hurricanes warms up before the game against the New Jersey Devils of Game Five of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center on April 29, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurricanes turn to Kochetkov for Game 3

Florida Panthers forward Sam Reinhart was unable to play in Saturday's Game 3 of the Eastern Conf...

Florida Panthers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a> was unable to play in Saturday's Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final because of a lower-body injury.The 29-year-old winger is considered day-to-day, head coach Paul Maurice said. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9848" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9848">Jesper Boqvist</a> entered the lineup in Reinhart's place.Reinhart suffered the ailment from a hit by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5681" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5681">Sebastian Aho</a> in Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sam Reinhart has gone to the dressing room following this hit from Sebastian Aho <a href="https://t.co/7OIFajHkLq">pic.twitter.com/7OIFajHkLq</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1925716484136792228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>He's registered four goals and seven assists in 14 games this postseason. Reinhart paced the Panthers with 39 goals and 81 points during the regular season.Boqvist hasn't played since Game 6 of Round 2 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He's tallied two points in nine games this postseason after potting a career-high 12 goals during the regular season.The Panthers lead the series 2-0.

RALEIGH, NC - MAY 20: Carolina Hurricanes center Jordan Staal (11) and Florida Panthers center Sam Reinhart (13) battle for the puck along the boards during game one of the Eastern Conference Final of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Florida Panthers and the Carolina Hurricanes on May 20, 2025 at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Panthers' Reinhart out Game 3 due to lower-body injury

Connor McDavid isn't here for the narrative that the Edmonton Oilers are an offensive juggernaut ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> isn't here for the narrative that the Edmonton Oilers are an offensive juggernaut and nothing else. "Yes, we can play defense," McDavid told reporters following Edmonton's 3-0 win in Friday's Game 2 against the Dallas Stars. "We're a different team than years past. Probably not as run and gun as we've been in years past."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6553">Stuart Skinner</a> made 25 saves in the victory for his third shutout in the last four games. He blanked the Vegas Golden Knights in Games 4 and 5 of Round 2 to help Edmonton advance to the Western Conference Final.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Stu was great," McDavid added.The captain continued: "The forwards are coming back really hard. Everybody's selling out blocking shots. It's that time of year. That's what it takes."Skinner's three shutouts this postseason tied the franchise's single playoff record, previously set by Curtis Joseph in 1998. Skinner now has four career playoff shutouts, passing Bill Ranford for second on the Oilers' all-time list, and sits one back of Joseph."Stu was phenomenal," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1723">Zach Hyman</a> said. "The chances that they did get he shut the door."Head coach Kris Knoblauch noted that while the Oilers did battle hard defensively, Skinner was there to come up clutch when the Stars did generate chances."Part of the reason we're talking about how much better we were defensively is, yeah we had breakdowns tonight, we did give up some good chances. The one that I think about is early in the third period on the breakaway, and Stu comes up big," Knoblauch said. "He made some really big saves for us tonight. Yes our team had some blocked shots, and yeah we defended well. But Stu had a lot of timely saves."Skinner was particularly strong in the third period, turning aside nine shots and thwarting all seven of Dallas' high-danger scoring chances.The Edmonton native got off to a rough start this postseason and was pulled in favor of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1766">Calvin Pickard</a> after Game 2 of Round 1. But Skinner has been sharp ever since re-entering the crease for an injured Pickard in Round 2. Overall, he owns an .890 save percentage and a 2.90 goals-against average in seven appearances this postseason.

DALLAS, TEXAS - MAY 21: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers celebrates a goal by teammate Leon Draisaitl (not pictured) against the Dallas Stars during the first period in Game One of the Western Conference Final of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center on May 21, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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McDavid shuns stigma Oilers can't play defense: 'We're a different team'

The United States played spoiler in front of a crowd full of yellow jerseys at the IIHF World Cha...

The United States played spoiler in front of a crowd full of yellow jerseys at the IIHF World Championship on Saturday, defeating host Sweden 6-2 in the semifinals at Avicii Arena in Stockholm.The U.S. hasn't won gold at the IIHF World Championship since 1933, although it won gold at the 1960 Olympics, which, at the time, doubled as the World Championship. The Americans have won seven medals since 1960, all bronze, with the last coming in 2021.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4511" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4511">Brady Skjei</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12716" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12716">Cutter Gauthier</a> scored for the United States in the first period before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4659" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4659">Conor Garland</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7646" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7646">Mikey Eyssimont</a> tacked on two more in the middle frame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sweden made a push in the third period with a pair of goals from <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/3001" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3001">Elias Lindholm</a>, but it proved to be too little, too late. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13808" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13808">Jackson LaCombe</a> added a fifth goal for the U.S. to seal the victory before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10496" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10496">Shane Pinto</a>'s empty-netter.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a> was sharp when called upon for the Americans, stopping 27 of 29 shots.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1677" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1677">Jacob Markstrom</a> was pulled from the Sweden net in favor of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10808" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10808">Samuel Ersson</a> after allowing four goals on 20 shots.The U.S. will play Switzerland in Sunday's gold-medal game.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - MAY 24: USA celebrate a goal scored by Cutter Gauthier of United States during the 2025 Ice Hockey World Championship match between Sweden and USA at Avicii Arena on May 24, 2025 in Stockholm, Sweden.

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U.S. beats Sweden, will play for 1st IIHF Worlds gold since 1933

The New York Islanders announced Friday that they hired Mathieu Darche as general manager and exe...

The New York Islanders announced Friday that they hired Mathieu Darche as general manager and executive vice president.Darche had worked in the Tampa Bay Lightning's front office since 2019 and held the position of assistant GM and director of hockey operations for the last three seasons.The 48-year-old won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Lightning in 2020 and 2021.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Mathieu is the perfect choice to lead our hockey operations," Islanders operating partner John Collins said. "He will be given every resource available to put the Islanders first-in-class on the ice, with our business initiatives, and in the community."Darche has been highly coveted around the league, interviewing with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vancouver Canucks, Montreal Canadiens, and Chicago Blackhawks regarding their respective GM vacancies over the last few years.Lou Lamoriello held the role of president and GM for the Islanders before it was announced in April that they wouldn't be renewing his contract.The Islanders reportedly interviewed Jarmo Kekalainen and Marc Bergevin for the GM job and also expressed interest in Brendan Shanahan for a front-office role.New York holds the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

EDMONTON, ALBERTA - SEPTEMBER 28: Mathieu Darche of the Tampa Bay Lightning holds the Stanley Cup following the series-winning victory over the Dallas Stars in Game Six of the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place on September 28, 2020 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Islanders hire Darche as GM, executive VP

PWHL Vancouver hired Cara Gardner Morey as the first general manager in franchise history, the le...

PWHL Vancouver hired Cara Gardner Morey as the first general manager in franchise history, the league announced Friday.Gardner Morey has served as the head coach of Princeton University's women's hockey program since 2017."Cara brings exceptional experience at all levels of the game, a deep understanding of player development, and an unwavering passion for advancing women's sports," said Jayna Hefford, PWHL executive vice president of hockey operations.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Her track record at Princeton speaks for itself – instilling a strong culture, recruiting top talent, developing elite athletes, and winning championships. Cara becoming general manager of PWHL Vancouver is a powerful addition to our league."Vancouver and Seattle were awarded PWHL expansion franchises in April and will join the league next season. The expansion draft is set for June 9."I'm incredibly honored to step into the role of general manager and lead the PWHL team in Vancouver," Gardner Morey said. "It's a privilege to help bring the best women's hockey to one of the greatest cities in the world. We'll build a team that reflects Vancouver's passionate spirit - one that competes for the Walter Cup and becomes part of the city's fabric. I can't wait to get started. Let's build something incredible together, Vancouver!"

25 April 2023, Canada, Vancouver: Vancouver skyline. Photo: Britta Pedersen/dpa

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PWHL Vancouver hires Cara Gardner Morey as GM

The Toronto Maple Leafs won't replace team president Brendan Shanahan, Maple Leafs Sports & Enter...

The Toronto Maple Leafs won't replace team president Brendan Shanahan, Maple Leafs Sports &amp; Entertainment president and CEO Keith Pelley announced Friday.Pelley also confirmed that Brad Treliving will remain the club's general manager and Craig Berube will stay on as head coach.Treliving reported to Shanahan under the previous organizational structure but will now report directly to Pelley.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I have my utmost confidence in Brad and my utmost confidence in Craig," Pelley said. "I'm not looking to replace Brendan. I'm looking to work closer with Brad and work closer with Craig."Pelley added that whether Treliving takes on a larger role in the organization is "something that will be determined down the road."In the meantime, all hockey operations decisions will be left to Treliving and his staff."I'm not going to be deciding who we draft and what free agents we're going to sign," Pelley said. "My role is to be a sounding board. My role is to try to create a culture and chemistry within that organization that builds a culture of winning championships."The Maple Leafs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289894" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289894">announced</a> Thursday they won't be renewing Shanahan's contract after 11 seasons on the job."This was my decision," Pelley said. "I had the support of ownership."Shanahan's departure comes in the wake of yet another disappointing playoff exit for the Maple Leafs. They've reached the playoffs nine straight seasons - the longest active streak in the league - but haven't made it beyond Round 2 since 2002. They took the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers to seven games but lost in embarrassing fashion with a 6-1 defeat on home ice.Treliving was not present at the press conference in order to attend his daughter's graduation in Calgary. Pelley said he plans to sit down and have dinner with Treliving on Sunday. He already had dinner with Berube on Thursday.Pelley was also asked about pending unrestricted free agents <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a>. He reiterated that would be a question for Treliving to answer but that he's open to the idea of change."Further change will probably be needed to get us to the next level and yesterday was the first step in that direction," Pelley said.

TORONTO.Keith Pelley, CEO (L) shakes the hand of Craig Berube, head coach,(R) New Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube being introduced. (R.J.Johnston/Toronto Star) R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star (R.J. Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Leafs won't replace Shanahan, have 'utmost confidence' in Treliving, Berube

The Dallas Stars' Jim Nill, Florida Panthers' Bill Zito, and Winnipeg Jets' Kevin Cheveldayoff ar...

The Dallas Stars' Jim Nill, Florida Panthers' Bill Zito, and Winnipeg Jets' Kevin Cheveldayoff are the finalists for the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award, the league announced Friday.Voting was conducted by NHL GMs and a panel of league executives and print and broadcast media at the conclusion of Round 2 of the playoffs.Nill is looking to win the award for the third year in a row. His Stars find themselves in the Western Conference Final for the third consecutive season, due in large part to moves made by the veteran executive. Nill made the league's biggest deadline splash by acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a>, who leads all skaters with 20 points this postseason. <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/2858" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2858">Cody Ceci</a> have proven to be key additions as well.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Zito is also in his third straight year of being named a finalist, as his Panthers are locked into their third consecutive Eastern Conference Final. He rebuilt the Panthers' blue line by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2910" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2910">Nate Schmidt</a> in the summer and bringing in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3005" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3005">Seth Jones</a> midseason after losing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4487" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4487">Brandon Montour</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1652" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1652">Oliver Ekman-Larsson</a> in the offseason. Zito made a savvy deadline move of his own with the addition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a> from the rival Boston Bruins.Cheveldayoff is a finalist for the second time in his career, with the first coming in 2017-18. He led the Jets to their first Presidents' Trophy in franchise history. His key moves over the last year include hiring head coach Scott Arniel, extending <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6386" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6386">Alex Iafallo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2119" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2119">Vladislav Namestnikov</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a>, and adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5524" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5524">Brandon Tanev</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1200" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1200">Luke Schenn</a> at the deadline.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 28: Assistant general manager Mark Janko (L) and general manager Jim Nill of the Dallas Stars talk before the first round of the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft at Sphere on June 28, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Nill, Zito, Cheveldayoff up for NHL's GM of the Year

The Toronto Maple Leafs' Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday was a disaster in every se...

The Toronto Maple Leafs' Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday was a disaster in every sense of the word. But if there's any silver lining to the utterly embarrassing effort, it's that there's no escaping a dramatic offseason shake-up that a large portion of the fan base has been longing for.Brendan Shanahan is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289894" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289894">out</a> as president, and star forward Mitch Marner is widely expected to be next. But where, specifically, do the Leafs go afterward?It would be too soon to move on from general manager Brad Treliving (hired April 2023) or head coach Craig Berube (hired May 2024). With $21.9 million coming off the books this offseason between Marner and John Tavares alone, we'll explore different avenues the Maple Leafs could take with their newfound cap space. We'll get into some "what-if" roster outlooks below, but before doing so, it's important to outline several constants these mocks will share:<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Keep defense, goaltending intact<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/cropped_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763053/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191070415.jpg?ts=1735682196 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kevin Sousa / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>For once, the Maple Leafs are pretty much set on defense and in goal. That doesn't mean Treliving shouldn't be open to change, but it's unlikely.On defense, Chris Tanev, Brandon Carlo, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson were all acquired within the past year. Jake McCabe was just extended, and Morgan Rielly has a full no-movement clause. Simon Benoit and Philippe Myers are perfectly fine No. 6 and 7 D-men at their cap hits. Even if Treliving wanted to, making changes wouldn't be easy.In net, Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll were one of the league's best tandems. Stolarz is a bargain at $2.5 million, and Woll is set to enter the first season of a three-year extension.For our mock rosters, we'll assume the defense and goaltending stays intact.Lock up Matthews Knies<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/cropped_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785267/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213988422.jpg?ts=1747069549 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Arjoon / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>This should be offseason priority No. 1. Knies, 22, is a budding star coming off a breakout season. The 6-foot-3, 227-pound power forward fits the style Treliving and Berube want to play. Treliving should do everything in his power to get Knies, a restricted free agent, signed as soon as possible for the maximum of eight years.<a href="https://afpanalytics.com/">AFP Analytics</a> projects Knies to sign a seven-year deal worth $7.2 million annually. <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a> projects $6.3 million annually on a six-year deal. The eight-year deal the Leafs should seek would likely come in around $8 million. Adjusting for Toronto market inflation, we gave Knies $8.5 million annually on an eight-year deal in our mock rosters. It's a hefty pay raise in the short term but should age well over time.Play hardball with Tavares<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/cropped_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782957/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205315746.jpg?ts=1745864612 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mark Blinch / NHL / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Tavares has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3288128" href="https://thescore.com/news/3288128">said</a> numerous times - including in the aftermath of Game 7 - that he wants to remain a Maple Leaf. If that's truly the case, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to bring a Stanley Cup to Toronto, he should take a significant hometown discount. Money shouldn't be a problem for Tavares, who's coming off a $77-million contract and has endless endorsement opportunities at his disposal in Toronto.Matt Duchene re-signed with the Dallas Stars a year ago on a one-year, $3-million deal following a 65-point season. Patrice Bergeron, still playing at a Selke-caliber level entering his final season, took $2.5 million. The NHLPA might not be thrilled with players taking well below market value, but it's been done.The Maple Leafs and Tavares reportedly discussed an extension in October. Some reports indicated a deal approaching $7-million annually. If that's the contract he's chasing after a 38-goal season, Toronto should let him sign elsewhere. But if he's willing to stay for around $5 million annually or less, the Leafs should absolutely take him back - even if it means increasing the term to get the cap hit lower. Cap hits for Tavares range from $3.8 million to $5 million in our mocks.Sign Sam Bennett<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/cropped_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749123/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177515295.jpg?ts=1747922710 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Carmen Mandato / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Bennett became public enemy No. 1 in Toronto after injuring Stolarz in Game 1 with an elbow to the head, but it's easy to imagine him becoming a prime unrestricted free-agent target for the Maple Leafs this summer.Bennett was the first draft pick Treliving made during his time as GM of the Calgary Flames. Bennett's tenure in Calgary ultimately didn't work out as hoped, but there's still familiarity between the executive and player.Bennett checks a lot of boxes for what the Maple Leafs need. The soon-to-be 29-year-old could succeed Tavares as the team's No. 2 center. He brings the type of snarl Treliving and Berube covet and is a proven playoff performer.There's no guarantee Bennett would be willing to sign in Toronto, even though he's from nearby Holland Landing, Ontario. But the Panthers' cap situation is tight, and they have a No. 2 center waiting in the wings in Anton Lundell. Seeing an obvious fit between team and player, we gave Bennett a seven-year contract with a $7-million cap hit - $750K more per season than a recent comparable in Chandler Stephenson.A deal this lucrative for Bennett would be risky, considering his analytics are suspect and his career high in points is just 51. However, of all the top UFAs, Bennett is the most logical fit for Toronto, and Treliving will have money to spend.Other notesWe also made a handful of minor moves in our mock rosters that are worth noting:<ul>
<li>
Ditch David Kampf: $2.4 million per season is far too pricey for Kampf, who was scratched in 12 of 13 playoff games. The Leafs can likely surrender a late-round pick to free themselves of his contract.</li>
<li>
Re-sign Pontus Holmberg: While he provides little offense, Holmberg is reliable defensively, trusted by Berube, and only 26 years old. We gave him a $100K raise as an RFA, bringing his cap hit to $900K.</li>
<li>
Move on from Nick Robertson: He's proven he can score 15 goals per year in limited minutes, but Robertson was a scratch for 10 of 13 playoff games and isn't a fit under Berube. Trading him for a late-round pick seems most likely at this point.</li>
</ul>We didn't make any splash trades in our mock rosters. Dealing for a potentially available center, such as Bo Horvat, Nazem Kadri, or Marco Rossi, would be nice but probably not feasible. The Maple Leafs have a thin farm system and are without a first-round pick until 2028. As such, all additions were made through free agency.Bold = New addition<h3>Option 1: Bring in the winners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/cropped_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759031/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183940185.jpg?ts=1733420033 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Berl / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Leafs new lineup Option 1" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-G8AIy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/G8AIy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure>If the Maple Leafs want players who know what it takes to get things done when the stakes are highest, look no further than this roster. Patrick Kane, Brad Marchand, and Corey Perry have five Stanley Cup rings between them.Whether they would even be willing to sign in Toronto remains to be seen, but they're built to handle the pressure that comes with it. While older, they're still highly effective players in their own way and would fit with Toronto's goal of winning now. Bringing in older players means handing out short-term deals, which would give the Maple Leafs ample cap flexibility in future years.We re-signed Steven Lorentz and traded away Calle Jarnkrok ($2.1M) as a cap dump in this projection.<h3>Option 2: A new core</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/cropped_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786679/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215819781.jpg?ts=1747841169 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Darcy Finley / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Leafs new lineup Option 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gT79w" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gT79w/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure>Signing Bennett and Nikolaj Ehlers would essentially lock the Maple Leafs into a new core long term, which may give management pause. Although, it's easy to understand why there'd be interest in Ehlers, - a speedy, dynamic winger who's expected to sign for much less than Marner.However, Ehlers' playoff resume isn't exactly sterling. He tallied five goals and two assists in eight games this spring but generated 14 points in 37 postseason games prior to this season.In order to sign two big names up front, we're icing a 21-player roster (two goalies, seven defensemen, and 12 forwards). Tavares had to take $3.8 million in this instance, and it's possible he wouldn't be willing to go that low. We also re-signed Max Pacioretty following his strong postseason.<h3>Option 3: Spread the wealth</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/cropped_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786834/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213949301.jpg?ts=1747923826 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jess Rapfogel / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Leafs new lineup Option 2 (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0UJF3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0UJF3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure>This roster lacks the firepower of the other two, but Toronto natives Andrew Mangiapane, Connor Brown, and Brandon Tanev would give the team's bottom-six forward group a much-needed facelift.Treliving drafted Mangiapane during his time with the Flames and signed him to the contract that expires this offseason. Mangiapane, 29, had a down offensive season, providing a buy-low opportunity for a player who, at worst, is strong defensively.Brown, who spent the first four years of his career in Toronto, seemed to return to form this season with the Edmonton Oilers after tearing his ACL in October 2022. He's another hard-working, two-way winger capable of moving up and down the lineup.It's easy to envision Tanev wanting to play with his brother, Chris. Brandon would bring energy and physicality to the fourth line.This mock left a bit more money for Tavares than the other two.

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How Maple Leafs could use their cap space if they let Marner walk

A star-studded Canadian squad is heading home early from the IIHF World Championship.  Denmark st...

A star-studded Canadian squad is heading home early from the IIHF World Championship.Denmark stunned Canada with a 2-1 victory in the quarterfinals Thursday after scoring a pair of goals in the final three minutes.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3995" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3995">Nikolaj Ehlers</a> tied it up at the 17:43 mark of the third before Nick Olesen scored arguably the biggest goal in Danish hockey history with 49 seconds left in regulation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NICK OLESEN GIVES DENMARK THE LEAD WITH UNDER A MINUTE TO PLAY! 😱🇩🇰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MensWorlds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MensWorlds</a> <a href="https://t.co/NThsHSRie9">pic.twitter.com/NThsHSRie9</a>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1925653043032273118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>This is the first time in the tournament's history that Denmark has advanced to the final four. It'll play Switzerland in the semifinals Saturday, while Sweden will face the United States.Frederik Dichow was sensational in the Danish net, stopping 39 of 40 shots from a Canadian roster led by <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/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a>, and several other NHL stars. Canada went 6-0-1-0 during the preliminary round.Canada's elimination officially spells the end of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1010" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1010">Marc-Andre Fleury</a>'s career. He didn't play Thursday, but a victory at this tournament would've earned Fleury a spot in the elusive Triple Gold Club.Ehlers is the only active NHLer on the Danish team. He joined late after his Winnipeg Jets were eliminated in Round 2 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

ODENSE, DENMARK - MAY 22: A battle for the puck in front of goalkeeper Frederik Dichow of Denmark during the 2025 Ice Hockey World Championship match between Canada and Denmark at Jyske Bank Arena on May 22, 2025 in Odense, Denmark.

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Denmark eliminates Canada at World Championship in stunning upset

Brendan Shanahan's time with the Toronto Maple Leafs is over after 11 seasons.  The club announce...

Brendan Shanahan's time with the Toronto Maple Leafs is over after 11 seasons.The club announced Thursday that it won't renew its president and alternate governor's contract, which expires at the end of June.Brad Treliving is staying on as general manager, reports <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1925653118378803529">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Brendan is one of the most respected leaders in the game and he has instilled many of the traits that were the signature of his Hall of Fame career throughout the organization, uniting this storied franchise in the 'Honor, Pride, and Courage' that it was founded on," Maple Leafs Sports &amp; Entertainment president and CEO Keith Pelley said in a statement."Our responsibility and driving motivation, however, is to add a new chapter to the Maple Leafs' championship history, and it was determined that a new voice was required to take the team to the next level in the years ahead."Pelley will hold a press conference Friday at 1 p.m. ET.The decision comes on the heels of yet another disappointing playoff finish, as the Maple Leafs were blown out 6-1 at home in Game 7 against the Florida Panthers on Sunday.The Maple Leafs hired Shanahan in 2014 after they had missed the playoffs in eight of the previous nine seasons. He quickly turned the franchise around with a rebuild deemed the "Shanaplan," as the team made a surprise playoff appearance in 2016-17. It was the first of nine straight postseason berths for Toronto, the longest active streak in the league.However, the Maple Leafs never made it beyond Round 2 during Shanahan's tenure."Toronto is where I was born and raised, where my family still lives, and being part of this historic franchise will always be one of the greatest honors of my life," Shanahan said in a statement. He added, "While I am proud of the rebuild we embarked on starting in 2014, ultimately, I came here to help win the Stanley Cup, and we did not. There is nothing more I wanted to deliver to our fans, and my biggest regret is that we could not finish the job."He's widely credited with restoring relationships with Maple Leafs alumni and bringing the franchise back to respectability. However, Shanahan ultimately had final say in the decision to keep the Core Four of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a>, <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/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a> together despite a string of postseason failures. Marner and Tavares are now pending unrestricted free agents.Shanahan may not be out of work for long, as the New York Islanders will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289345" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289345">reportedly</a> speak to him about a front office position. The Islanders are without a president and general manager after deciding not to renew Lou Lamoriello's contract.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JUNE 28: President Brendan Shanahan of the Toronto Maple Leafs is seen prior to round one of the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft at Bridgestone Arena on June 28, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Maple Leafs move on from Shanahan after 11 seasons

The Boston Bruins have cast a wide net in their coaching search.  The club interviewed Luke Richa...

The Boston Bruins have cast a wide net in their coaching search.The club interviewed Luke Richardson, Jay Woodcroft, Marco Sturm, Mitch Love, Jay Leach, and Joe Sacco for the vacancy, among others, reports <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1925600568581710012">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.Sacco was Boston's interim bench boss for 62 games last season following Jim Montgomery's dismissal. The Bruins went 25-30-7 during Sacco's tenure.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Richardson served as head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks for parts of three seasons before they fired him 26 games into 2024-25. A 1,417-game NHL veteran during his playing career, he put together a 57-118-15 record behind the bench in Chicago.Woodcroft was Edmonton Oilers head coach for parts of three campaigns before he was fired 13 games into 2023-24. He led the Oilers to a 2022 Western Conference Final appearance, and his .643 points percentage is eighth-best all time among coaches with at least 100 games.Sturm played five seasons with the Bruins during his 14-year career. Since retiring, he's served as the head coach of the German national team, an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Kings, and most recently as head coach of the AHL's Ontario Reign.Love has been an assistant coach for the Washington Capitals the last two seasons. He won back-to-back AHL coach of the year awards in 2022 and 2023.Leach was an assistant coach on Montgomery's and Sacco's staff in Boston last season. He was previously an assistant coach with the Seattle Kraken and head coach of the AHL's Providence Bruins.The Bruins are expected to conduct final interviews next week before making a decision, LeBrun reports.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 10: Chicago Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson speaks to the press prior to the game against the Minnesota Wild at the United Center on November 10, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Richardson, Woodcroft, Sturm among Bruins' coaching targets

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