Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl visited a doctor in Germany after recently being ruled o...

<p>Edmonton Oilers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> visited a doctor in Germany after recently being ruled out for the remainder of the regular season with a lower-body injury, reports Sky Sports' Ben Heckner.</p><p>Draisaitl attended Saturday's Bayern Munich game and raised alarm bells when he told Sky Sports his return to action may hinge on how far the Oilers advance in the playoffs.</p><p>"It will definitely take a few weeks," Draisaitl <a href="https://x.com/SkySport_Ben/status/2035414226194297121?s=20">said</a>. "I hope we go far enough so I can help the team again."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Draisaitl's original recovery timeline hasn't changed. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I recognize this interview caused about 1,000 heart attacks...but as I understand it, Draisaitl's current timeline has not changed. <br><br>The expectation right now is he's out until the end of the regular season.<br><br>This, by the way, is the same doctor Auston Matthews visited a year… <a href="https://t.co/okApqDcUEo">https://t.co/okApqDcUEo</a></p>— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/2035439257536299281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Draisaitl has missed Edmonton's past two games and was recently placed on long-term injured reserve. The Oilers enter Saturday's contest against the Tampa Bay Lightning with a one-point lead over the Vegas Golden Knights for second in the Pacific Division. The Anaheim Ducks hold a three-point lead in the top spot.</p><p>Edmonton has reached back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals, losing both times to the Florida Panthers. Draisaitl notched 64 points in 47 playoff games the past two springs and had 97 points in 65 games in 2025-26 before he was injured.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - NOVEMBER 8: Leon Draisaitl #29 of the Edmonton Oilers stands for the singing of the national anthem prior to the game against the Colorado Avalanche at Rogers Place on November 8, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Report: Draisaitl visits doctor in Germany for lower-body injury

The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 5, sources told Hockey 24/7's Frank Seravalli.  T...

<p>The 2026 NHL Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 5, sources told <a href="https://www.hockey247.com/2026/03/19/frank-seravalli-nhl-draft-lottery-to-be-conducted-on-may-5-gavin-mckenna">Hockey 24/7's Frank Seravalli</a>.</p><p>The league will broadcast the lottery live on-air for the second year in a row, Seravalli adds. Prior to 2025, the lotteries took place in a private room, with the results revealed afterward.</p><p>Teams can only move up a maximum of 10 spots in the lottery, as per a rule implemented in 2021. As a result, only 11 franchises have a chance at selecting first overall.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Last year, the New York Islanders moved from 10th place to win the lottery and selected phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a>.</p><p>Forwards Gavin McKenna (Penn State) and Ivar Stenberg (Frolunda), along with defenseman Keaton Verhoeff (North Dakota), are projected to be among the top prospects in the 2026 draft.</p><p>Here's a look at the teams with a chance at drafting first overall entering Thursday's games:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Pts %</th>
<th>No. 1 pick odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vancouver Canucks</td>
<td>.373</td>
<td>25.1%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Calgary Flames</td>
<td>.449</td>
<td>13.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chicago Blackhawks</td>
<td>.463</td>
<td>11.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New York Rangers</td>
<td>.471</td>
<td>9.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. Louis Blues</td>
<td>.478</td>
<td>8.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Winnipeg Jets</td>
<td>.500</td>
<td>7.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Toronto Maple Leafs*</td>
<td>.507</td>
<td>6.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nashville Predators</td>
<td>.515</td>
<td>6.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida Panthers*</td>
<td>.515</td>
<td>5.0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New Jersey Devils</td>
<td>.529</td>
<td>3.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Los Angeles Kings</td>
<td>.530</td>
<td>3%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Maple Leafs' pick belongs to the Boston Bruins but is top-five protected. The Panthers' selection, owned by the Chicago Blackhawks, is top-10 protected.</p><p>The draft will be held June 26 and 27 in Buffalo.</p>

TEMPE, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 04: Gavin McKenna #72 of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on during the first period of the game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mullett Arena on October 04, 2025 in Tempe, Arizona.

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Report: NHL draft lottery scheduled for May 5

The Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, New Jersey Devils, and Utah Mammoth we...

<p>The Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, New Jersey Devils, and Utah Mammoth were among the teams that showed serious interest in Toronto Maple Leafs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> before the March 6 trade deadline, <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/32-thoughts-player-safety-a-hot-topic-at-gms-meetings/">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a> reports.</p><p>Knies signed a six-year extension with the Maple Leafs last June. It carries a $7.75-million cap hit and doesn't include trade protection. The 23-year-old winger has been considered a core piece of Toronto's future since entering the NHL in 2022-23. He's one point from matching a career high (58) this season.</p><p>A second-round pick in 2021, he's registered 151 points in 227 career games along with 100-plus hits in each of the past three seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Maple Leafs are on track to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2015-16 and sold forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4714" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4714">Nicolas Roy</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2855" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2855">Scott Laughton</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann </a>before the deadline to recoup draft picks. Toronto still doesn't own its first-round picks for 2026 and 2027 due to trades made before last year's playoff push.</p><p>The Canadiens, who stood pat at the deadline, are in a strong position to reach the playoffs for the second season in a row. Montreal general manager Kent Hughes told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7126079/2026/03/18/kent-hughes-canadiens-trade-deadline/">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a> that his club's lack of moves "wasn't for a lack of trying."</p><p>The Mammoth and Ducks are up-and-coming clubs currently in playoff position, while the Devils and Blackhawks sit 13th and 14th, respectively, in their conferences.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 6: Matthew Knies #23 of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Mike Matheson #8 of the Montreal Canadiens battle during the first period at the Scotiabank Arena on December 6, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Habs, Blackhawks among teams interested in Knies at deadline

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Russia is unlikely to be eligible to compete in the 2028 W...

<p>NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Russia is unlikely to be eligible to compete in the 2028 World Cup of Hockey if the country's war with Ukraine continues, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/nhl-says-russia-likely-not-to-be-in-2028-world-cup-if-war-continues/">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>.</p><p>The hockey federations of Sweden, Finland, and Czechia reportedly recently informed the NHL they wouldn't participate in the tournament if Russia was involved. While Daly didn't confirm those reports, he said the league is aware of other countries' sentiments on the issue.</p><p>"We know how they feel, and they have strong feelings about it, and quite frankly, it's the same strong feelings we've expressed and the international hockey community has expressed," Daly said Wednesday. "So, I don't think there’s anything new there. ...</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I don't think we're out of sync with where the Finns and Swedes and Czechs are with respect to Russian participation. It'll be available if certain things happen. And if certain things don't happen, they're likely not to participate."</p><p>A reporter followed up with "Certain things, meaning the war ending?" and Daly nodded.</p><p>The next World Cup will take place in three cities in February 2028: Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta, and Czechia capital Prague. The event will include eight teams. Decisions on which nations participate will probably be made ahead of the 2027-28 NHL season, Daly noted.</p><p>Russia has been ineligible to compete in international hockey events since invading Ukraine in February 2022. </p>

TORONTO, ON - SEPTEMBER 19: Alex Ovechkin #8 of Team Russia warms up prior to a game against Team North America during the World Cup of Hockey 2016 at Air Canada Centre on September 19, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Russia unlikely to compete in 2028 World Cup of Hockey if war continues

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube was encouraged that Morgan Rielly came to the defense...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube was encouraged that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2856" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2856">Morgan Rielly</a> came to the defense of goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8266" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8266">Joseph Woll</a> in Tuesday's loss to the New York Islanders.</p><p>Rielly took exception after Islanders forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11074">Kyle MacLean</a> collided with Woll.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Morgan Rielly and Kyle MacLean drop the gloves 👊<br><br>Rielly didn’t like the contact MacLean made with Joseph Woll 👀 <a href="https://t.co/mM8daesoz3">pic.twitter.com/mM8daesoz3</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2034072913779855832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's a great job by him getting in there and sticking up for Joseph," Berube told reporters postgame. "Obviously, that message has gotten across."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Maple Leafs have been under the microscope since none of their players responded to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1727" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1727">Radko Gudas</a>' knee-on-knee hit on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> last week. The collision ended Matthews' season, while the Anaheim Ducks defenseman was suspended for five games.</p><p>Rielly, who was on the ice when Matthews was injured, took responsibility for failing to react to the incident. Berube said he's noticed a change in the defenseman in the three games since.</p><p>"It's been a tough year for him, we all know that," Berube said of Rielly. "He took that personally against Matthews. Like I said, it's not just on Mo or this guy, it's everybody. They all should have been in there right away. I think that they've obviously learned from it, and it's been a difference now."</p><p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1319" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1319">Steven Lorentz</a> said the aftermath of the Matthews hit was a wake-up call for the Maple Leafs.</p><p>"It's definitely got guys' attention. I mean, it got the hockey world's attention, right? And we were disappointed in ourselves and how we handled that situation," he said, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/had-to-look-in-the-mirror-why-matthews-guilt-is-still-affecting-maple-leafs/">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>.</p><p>"You hear the outside noise. You know, we'd be lying if we said we don't hear it. It's not that we don't pay attention to it. But we have to do a job, and we know what that is. And at times, we're human. We get away from it."</p><p>The Maple Leafs are 1-1-1 since Matthews was injured. </p>

TORONTO, ON- MARCH 17 - Defenseman Morgan Rielly #44 of the Toronto Maple Leafs and center Kyle MacLean #32 of the New York Islanders fight in the second period as the Toronto Maple Leafs play the New York Islanders at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. March 17, 2026. Steve Russell/Toronto Star (Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Berube: 'Message has gotten across' for Leafs to stick up for one another

Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague are the host cities for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, the NHL and N...

<p>Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague are the host cities for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, the NHL and NHLPA announced Monday.</p><p>The tournament is scheduled to take place in February 2028. Each venue will host six round-robin contests and one elimination game. Edmonton will host the semifinals and final.</p><p>The Calgary Flames' new arena, Scotia Place, is scheduled to open in time for the 2027-28 season. Games in Prague will take place at the O2 Arena. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The tournament will include eight teams. The fourth-place team in each group will be eliminated at the end of round-robin play while the top seeds get a bye to the semifinals. </p><p>The semifinals and final will use Stanley Cup Playoff overtime rules, meaning five-on-five for 20-minute periods, notes <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/2033594010548175240?s=20">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>. The three-on-three overtime format at the Olympics in February was a controversial talking point after the gold-medal game was decided in extra time.</p><p>There is no word on whether Russia will be permitted to participate. The country has been barred from international play since invading Ukraine.</p><p>The World Cup of Hockey hasn't been staged since 2016, but the NHL previously announced its international calendar would include the event every two years between the Olympics. Canada won the event in 2016 and 2004, while the United States won the inaugural tournament in 1996.</p>

Sidney Crosby,Tomas Hertl during the Men's Playoffs Quarterfinal match between Canada and Chechia on day twelve of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy.

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Calgary, Edmonton, Prague to host 2028 World Cup of Hockey

Ludvig Aberg expanded his lead at The Players Championship on Saturday and now holds a three-stro...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/5384">Ludvig Aberg</a> expanded his lead at The Players Championship on Saturday and now holds a three-stroke advantage heading into the final round. </p><p>Aberg entered the day with a two-shot edge, then carded a 1-under 71 to take further control of the prestigious event at TPC Sawgrass. The Swede looked poised to take a four-shot lead into Sunday, but three-putt bogeyed the 18th hole. </p><p>Here's who's in the mix heading into the final round:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Score</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Ludvig Aberg</td>
<td>-13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Michael Thorbjornsen</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Cameron Young</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Matt Ftizpatrick</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Brian Harman</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Viktor Hovland</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Corey Conners</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Justin Thomas</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Xander Schauffele</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fgolf%2Forganization%2Fpga-tour%2Fcompetition%2Fthe-players-championship&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3499126">Click here to bet on The Players Championship on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4894" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/4894">Robert MacIntyre</a> posted the lowest round of the day at 7-under, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1540" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1540">Scottie Scheffler</a> got back on track with a 5-under 67. The 2023 and 2024 champion entered the weekend at 1-over. </p><p>Aberg has two PGA TOUR victories in his career, with his most recent triumph coming at last year's Genesis Invitational.</p><p>He's been in control of all facets of his game this week, leading the field in eagles, scrambling, par-5 scoring, driving distance, and strokes gained tee-to-green, according to the <a href="https://x.com/PGATOUR/status/2032959344384348244">TOUR</a>. </p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 14: Ludvig Aberg of Sweden hits his second shot on the 10th hole during the third round of THE PLAYERS Championship 2026 at THE PLAYERS Stadium course at TPC Sawgrass on March 14, 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

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Aberg holds 3-shot lead after moving day at The Players

Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube thinks Anaheim Ducks captain Radko Gudas got off easy...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube thinks Anaheim Ducks captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1727" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1727">Radko Gudas</a> got off easy with a five-game suspension after ending <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>' season with a knee-on-knee hit Thursday night.</p><p>"Looking at it, we lose our guy, our captain for the year," Berube said, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/48207266/leafs-call-harsher-punishment-gudas-hit-matthews">ESPN's Greg Wyshynski</a>. "It doesn't seem like enough for me. You lose your star player for the year. The guy doing it is a repeat offender. It just doesn't seem like enough."</p><p>Gudas' suspension was the fifth of his career. He was assessed a major penalty and ejected for the hit that resulted in a Grade 3 MCL tear for Matthews.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Berube isn't the only Maple Leaf who thinks Gudas' punishment was light. </p><p>"I believe Auston's been ruled out for quite a while, right? So it's going to (miss) more than five games, so it easily could've been longer," said <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a>. "Can't say five games is nothing, but it could have been longer."</p><p>Added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a>, "I think the league could've done a little bit more, seeing as our best player (and) our captain (is) not going to be with us for the rest of the year. That's a big loss."</p><p>Matthews' agent, Judd Moldaver, was irate about the verdict Friday, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3448878" href="https://thescore.com/news/3448878">saying</a> The NHL Department of Player Safety should be suspended for their own decision.</p><p>Gudas is eligible to return from his suspension March 24. The Maple Leafs visit the Ducks in Anaheim on March 30. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 12: Morgan Rielly #44 of the Toronto Maple Leafs confronts Radko Gudas #7 of the Anaheim Ducks after kneeing Auston Matthews #34 (not shown) in the second period at Scotiabank Arena on March 12, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Berube: Gudas' 5-game ban 'doesn't seem like enough'

Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas will have a hearing Friday for kneeing Toronto Maple Leafs c...

<p>Anaheim Ducks defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1727" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1727">Radko Gudas</a> will have a hearing Friday for kneeing Toronto Maple Leafs captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> during Thursday's contest, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced.</p><p>Gudas was assessed a five-minute major and ejected for the play, which was upheld after review.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Radko Gudas goes knee-on-knee with Auston Matthews. Gudas received a minute major pending review. Auston Matthews was down for a while but has gotten back to his feet. <a href="https://t.co/Rxf6xIe1GH">pic.twitter.com/Rxf6xIe1GH</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2032252955663962378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Matthews stayed down on the ice after the hit and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest with a lower-body injury. The 28-year-old had snapped a 12-game goal drought minutes earlier.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube called the hit a "dirty play," per <a href="https://x.com/markhmasters/status/2032279591293702451?s=20">TSN's Mark Masters</a>, and noted that Matthews will undergo further evaluation Friday. Berube was also irked by his club's lack of response to the play.</p><p>"We should have had four guys in there doing something about it," Berube said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JesseBlake/status/2032278714625450345">SDPN's Jesse Blake</a>. "I thought they responded in the third. ... But we all would have liked everyone to get in there right away."</p><p>Veteran defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2856" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2856">Morgan Rielly</a> took ownership for the Leafs not sticking up for their captain. </p><p>"It's on me for not responding earlier to Gudas. ... It's a dirty hit." Rielly said, according to <a href="https://x.com/jonassiegel/status/2032276073740718298?s=20">The Athletic's Jonas Siegel</a>. "I didn't understand how bad he got him in the moment. But I take full responsibility for not being the first one in there."</p><p>Gudas has built a reputation for his physical play throughout a 14-year NHL career. He's registered 100-plus hits in all but one season and has been suspended four times. His most recent ban came in 2019.</p><p>The Maple Leafs scored twice on the power play from Gudas' hit and ultimately won 6-4, snapping an eight-game losing streak. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 12: Radko Gudas #7 of the Anaheim Ducks takes a kneeing penalty against Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period at Scotiabank Arena on March 12, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Gudas faces hearing after knee-on-knee hit on Matthews

Sepp Straka and Sahith Theegala headline a group of five tied for the lead at 5-under par followi...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/534" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/534">Sepp Straka</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4240" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/4240">Sahith Theegala</a> headline a group of five tied for the lead at 5-under par following the first round of The Players Championship.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1961" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1961">Maverick McNealy</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/5390" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/5390">Lee Hodges</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4363" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/4363">Austin Smotherman</a> are the others atop a crowded leaderboard at TPC Sawgrass. Play was suspended due to darkness with Smotherman on the 18th green.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Score</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td>Maverick McNealy</td>
<td>67 (-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td> Lee Hodges</td>
<td>67 (-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td>Sepp Straka</td>
<td>67 (-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td> Sahith Theegala</td>
<td>67 (-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T1</td>
<td>Austin Smotherman</td>
<td>67 (-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T2</td>
<td>Justin Thomas</td>
<td>68 (-4)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T2</td>
<td>Russell Henley</td>
<td>68 (-4)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T2</td>
<td>Taylor Moore</td>
<td>68 (-4)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T2</td>
<td>Cameron Young</td>
<td>68 (-4)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fgolf%2Forganization%2Fpga-tour%2Fcompetition%2Fthe-players-championship&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3498241">See who's favored to win The Players on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Star players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/2172" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/2172">Tony Finau</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/5384">Ludvig Aberg</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/678" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/678">Tommy Fleetwood</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/5297" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/5297">Viktor Hovland</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1213" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1213">Xander Schauffele</a> are also in the mix at 3-under.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Defending champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/599" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/599">Rory McIlroy</a> participated in the first round after a back injury made him a game-time decision. He struggled with a 2-over 74. </p><p>World No. 4 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/3135" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/3135">Collin Morikawa</a> withdrew from the event after tweaking his back on a practice swing. He played only one hole before exiting the tournament. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1540" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1540">Scottie Scheffler</a> continued his 2026 trend of lackluster opening rounds, carding an even-par 72. He won the signature event in 2023 and 2024. </p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 12: Sepp Straka of Austria walks off the 18th hole green during the first round of THE PLAYERS Championship at Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass on March 12, 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

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Straka, Theegala among 5 tied for 1st-round lead at The Players

The Utah Mammoth signed forward Nick Schmaltz to an eight-year contract extension carrying an $8-...

<p>The Utah Mammoth signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5629" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5629">Nick Schmaltz</a> to an eight-year contract extension carrying an $8-million average annual value Wednesday.</p><p>Schmaltz was scheduled for unrestricted free agency this summer and earned a notable raise from his current $5.85-million cap hit.</p><p>The 30-year-old has notched 59 points in 65 games this season, which ranks second on Utah behind captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5592">Clayton Keller</a>. Schmaltz has been with the Mammoth/Arizona Coyotes since a trade from the Chicago Blackhawks in 2018.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Utah has handed out long-term extensions to Schmaltz, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12746" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12746">Logan Cooley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9219" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9219">JJ Peterka</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10721" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10721">Dylan Guenther</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5594">Mikhail Sergachev</a> since relocating from Arizona. Keller and recently acquired defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3222" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3222">MacKenzie Weegar</a> are also under contract through 2028 and 2031, respectively.</p><p>The Mammoth are projected to have $17.9 million in cap space this offseason after locking in Schmaltz, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/utah-mammoth">PuckPedia</a>.</p><p>Utah holds a six-point lead on the top wild-card spot in the Western Conference with 17 games remaining. The Mammoth missed the playoffs in their inaugural campaign, and the Coyotes hadn't reached the postseason since 2019-20. </p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 25: Nick Schmaltz #8 of the Utah Mammoth skates with the puck during an NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Utah Mammoth on February 25, 2026 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, UT.

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Mammoth sign Schmaltz to 8-year, $64M extension

Ottawa Senators head coach Travis Green announced Monday that star defenseman Jake Sanderson is w...

<p>Ottawa Senators head coach Travis Green announced Monday that star defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> is week-to-week with an upper-body injury, according to <a href="https://x.com/jkamckenzie/status/2031066548723446130?s=20">The Athletic's Julian McKenzie</a>.</p><p>Sanderson was hurt after taking a hit in Saturday's tilt against the Seattle Kraken.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jake Sanderson went to the locker room after taking a hit into the boards by Brandon Montour. <a href="https://t.co/VbTa4aTLFx">pic.twitter.com/VbTa4aTLFx</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2030507178734264488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Sanderson's absence is a significant blow to the Senators, who sit five points back of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with 20 games remaining. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 23-year-old rearguard has notched 48 points in 62 games this season while averaging 24:29 per contest and quarterbacking Ottawa's top power-play unit. He won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in February and finished in the top 10 in Norris Trophy voting last season.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - MARCH 3: Jake Sanderson #85 of the Ottawa Senators in action during the game against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on March 3, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Senators' Sanderson considered week-to-week with upper-body injury

While it may only be temporary, Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin is thrilled his club grabbed...

<p>While it may only be temporary, Buffalo Sabres captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> is thrilled his club grabbed top spot in the Atlantic Division following a thrilling 8-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday. </p><p>"It's just finally - finally we're here," Dahlin said postgame, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7100493/2026/03/09/sabres-win-lightning-15-goals-102-penalty-minutes/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn</a>. "So, I don't take this for granted at all. I'm so fired up. I'm so happy. I'm so happy for Buffalo as a city and all the fans too. This means the world."</p><p>The win pushed the Sabres past the Lightning for first place, although Tampa Bay has two games in hand. Sunday's meeting was a high-octane affair that featured 102 penalty minutes between the teams and a seven-goal third period.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We could not have done this without the crowd we had," Dahlin said. "They kept us in the game the whole match. It was an unbelievable atmosphere. I think that was probably top I've experienced."</p><p>The Sabres have a 98.8% chance of ending an NHL-record 14-year playoff drought, according to <a href="https://moneypuck.com/predictions.htm">Moneypuck</a>. Buffalo's undergone a remarkable turnaround since firing former general manager Kevyn Adams on Dec. 15, putting together a league-best 25-5-2 record over that span.</p><p>"We've come a long ways, obviously," head coach Lindy Ruff said after the victory.</p><p>Dahlin has been a key factor in Buffalo's surge, registering 32 points in his last 31 games while averaging nearly 26 minutes per contest. The Sabres haven't finished higher than fifth in the Atlantic Division since drafting Dahlin first overall in 2018. </p>

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - MARCH 08: Rasmus Dahlin #26 of the Buffalo Sabres high fives teammates after scoring his team's sixth goal during an NHL game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 08, 2026 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

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Dahlin thrilled after Sabres take division lead: 'Finally we're here'

The Toronto Maple Leafs traded forward Scott Laughton to the Los Angeles Kings for a third-round ...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs traded forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2855" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2855">Scott Laughton</a> to the Los Angeles Kings for a third-round pick that upgrades to a second-rounder if the Kings make the playoffs, the teams announced.</p><p>Toronto will receive Buffalo's second-round pick if the conditions are met.</p><p>Los Angeles is three points back of the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference with 21 games remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Laughton is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a cap hit of $3 million. The Maple Leafs acquired him from the Philadelphia Flyers before last year's trade deadline for a package including a first-round pick.</p><p>The 31-year-old has recorded 12 points in 43 games this season while averaging 13:40 per contest. Laughton is known for his defensive presence as a depth center and has won 56.7% of his faceoffs in 2025-26.</p><p>The Kings acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4530" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4530">Artemi Panarin</a> prior to the Olympic break and shipped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/34" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/34">Corey Perry</a> to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday.</p><p>On track to miss the playoffs for the first time in nine seasons, the Maple Leafs also sold forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4714" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4714">Nicolas Roy</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a> in separate deals before the deadline.</p>

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 13: Scott Laughton #24 of the Toronto Maple Leafs warms-up before playing the Florida Panthers at the Scotiabank Arena on March 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Maple Leafs trade Laughton to Kings

The Toronto Maple Leafs traded forward Bobby McMann to the Seattle Kraken for a conditional secon...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs traded forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a> to the Seattle Kraken for a conditional second-round pick in 2027 and a fourth-round pick in 2026, the teams announced.</p><p>The second-round pick will be the later selection of Winnipeg's or Columbus', which Seattle owns from prior trades. The fourth-round pick is Anaheim's.</p><p>McMann is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a $1.35-million cap hit. He's notched 32 points in 60 games this season, and his 19 goals are second-most among Kraken forwards.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Seattle holds a playoff spot but ranks 24th in goals for in 2025-26.</p><p>McMann hit the 20-goal mark last season and spent ample time in the Maple Leafs' top six before the trade. Toronto scratched him for two games leading up to the deadline.</p><p>The Kraken also signed captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/454" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/454">Jordan Eberle</a> to a two-year extension on Friday. </p>

SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 29: Forward Bobby McMann #74 of the Toronto Maple Leafs looks on during a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Seattle Kraken on January 29, 2026 at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington.

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Maple Leafs trade McMann to Kraken for 2 picks

The Washington Capitals acquired defenseman Timothy Liljegren from the San Jose Sharks for a four...

<p>The Washington Capitals acquired defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6652" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6652">Timothy Liljegren</a> from the San Jose Sharks for a fourth-round pick, the teams announced Friday. </p><p>Liljegren is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a cap hit of $3 million. The Capitals created a vacancy on the right side of their defensive corps after trading franchise icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1445" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1445">John Carlson</a> to the Anaheim Ducks on Friday morning.</p><p>Washington also traded forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3873" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3873">Nic Dowd</a> leading up to the deadline. The Capitals are four points back of the Boston Bruins for the second wild-card spot with two extra games played.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Liljegren's registered 11 points in 43 games this season while logging a career-high 20:08 per contest. The Toronto Maple Leafs traded him to San Jose early in the 2024-25 campaign.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - FEBRUARY 04: Timothy Liljegren #37 of the San Jose Sharks skates against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena on February 04, 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

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Capitals acquire Liljegren from Sharks

The Seattle Kraken signed captain Jordan Eberle to a two-year contract extension with an average ...

<p>The Seattle Kraken signed captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/454" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/454">Jordan Eberle</a> to a two-year contract extension with an average annual value of $5.5 million, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Eberle, 35, was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. He's been with the Kraken since their expansion draft in 2021 and has notched 42 points in 59 games this season.</p><p>The Kraken are projected to have over $30 million in cap space this offseason even after signing Eberle, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/seattle-kraken">PuckPedia</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Seattle holds the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference. The club missed the playoffs the past two seasons.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 12: Jordan Eberle #7 of the Seattle Kraken skates during the third period of a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Climate Pledge Arena on November 12, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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Kraken sign Eberle to 2-year extension

The Minnesota Wild acquired Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno for future considerations Fri...

<p>The Minnesota Wild acquired Chicago Blackhawks captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/860" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/860">Nick Foligno</a> for future considerations Friday, the team announced.</p><p>Foligno is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a cap hit of $4.5 million, and Chicago isn't retaining any salary, sources told <a href="https://x.com/emilymkaplan/status/2029961206312604140?s=20">ESPN's Emily Kaplan</a>.</p><p>Foligno's younger brother, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1489" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1489">Marcus</a>, has played for Minnesota the past nine seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nick Foligno, 38, has spent the past three seasons with the Blackhawks. He's registered 11 points in 37 games in 2025-26 while averaging fewer than 13 minutes per night.</p><p>He's played 1,270 games in his 19-year career and joins the Wild in pursuit of his first Stanley Cup. Minnesota has gone all-in this season to push for its first-ever championship. The Wild signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7294" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7294">Kirill Kaprizov</a> to the richest contract in NHL history, traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a>, and made a series of pre-deadline moves before adding Foligno.</p><p>Minnesota acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3067" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3067">Michael McCarron</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1521" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1521">Jeff Petry</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11206" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11206">Bobby Brink</a> in separate deals throughout the week.</p><p>The Wild are one of the top teams in the league but face a difficult playoff path in the Central Division. The Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, and Minnesota are the three best teams in the Western Conference, but they're on a collision course to play one another in the first two rounds of the postseason.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - MARCH 3: Nick Foligno #17 of the Chicago Blackhawks plays the puck up the ice during second period action against the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre on March 3, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The Jets defeated the Hawks 3-2 in overtime.

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Wild acquire Foligno from Blackhawks

The Dallas Stars acquired forward Michael Bunting from the Nashville Predators for a third-round ...

<p>The Dallas Stars acquired forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9973" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9973">Michael Bunting</a> from the Nashville Predators for a third-round pick, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>The draft selection originally belonged to the Seattle Kraken, who traded it to Dallas earlier this season for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9435" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9435">Mason Marchment</a>.</p><p>Bunting has notched 31 points in 61 games this season and is a pending unrestricted free agent. His cap hit is $4.5 million. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Stars are on a 10-game win streak and have been aggressive leading up to Friday's trade deadline. They gained cap space by placing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1693" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1693">Tyler Seguin</a> on long-term injured reserve for the rest of the season and playoffs.</p><p>Dallas added defensive depth Wednesday by acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/152">Tyler Myers</a> from the Vancouver Canucks.</p><p>The Predators are five points back of a playoff spot and already traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3067" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3067">Michael McCarron</a> to the Minnesota Wild. Nashville is on track to miss the postseason for the second year in a row after reshaping its core in 2024 by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2870" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2870">Jonathan Marchessault</a> in free agency.</p><p>General manager Barry Trotz recently announced his plans to step down from the role once the Predators find a successor.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - FEBRUARY 26: Michael Bunting #58 of the Nashville Predators warms up prior to a game against the Chicago Blackhawks during an NHL game at Bridgestone Arena on February 26, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Stars add Bunting from Predators for 3rd-round pick

The Minnesota Wild acquired defenseman Jeff Petry from the Florida Panthers for a conditional sev...

<p>The Minnesota Wild acquired defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1521" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1521">Jeff Petry</a> from the Florida Panthers for a conditional seventh-round pick in 2026, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>The pick is upgraded to a fifth-rounder if Minnesota wins two playoff rounds and Petry plays in 50% or more of those games. </p><p>Petry is a pending unrestricted free agent and carries a $775,000 cap hit. The 38-year-old joined the Panthers last summer and notched eight points in 58 games this season while averaging under 15 minutes per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The back-to-back Stanley Cup champions are virtually out of the playoff race and have opted to sell leading up to Friday's deadline. Florida is reportedly listening to offers on all its pending UFAs, including goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a>.</p><p>The Wild, sitting third in the Western Conference, are loading up for a playoff run after acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> earlier this season. Minnesota also added forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3067" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3067">Michael McCarron</a> on Tuesday to shore up its center depth.</p>

TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 5: Jeff Petry #2 of the Florida Panthers against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena on February 5, 2026 in Tampa, Florida.

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Wild acquire Petry from Panthers for conditional pick

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