More from this series:   European teams 🇪🇺  United States 🇺🇸  Canada 🇨🇦   We're exactly six month...

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314367" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314367"><em>European teams </em>🇪🇺</a></li>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314366" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314366"><em>United States </em>🇺🇸</a></li>
<li>
<em><strong>Canada </strong></em><strong>🇨🇦</strong>
</li>
</ul><p>We're exactly six months away from the opening ceremonies of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics on Feb. 6. To celebrate, theScore's Kyle Cushman and Josh Wegman decided to project rosters for the men's hockey tournament, which will include NHLers for the first time since 2014.</p><p>Our series continues with Team Canada, which has won four consecutive best-on-best international hockey tournaments: The 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, the 2016 World Cup, the 2014 Olympics, and the 2010 Olympics.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Unlike the 4 Nations Face-Off, which permitted teams to carry 20 skaters and dress 18, Olympic rosters are expanded. Each team can take 22 skaters and dress 20. Bolded players were already named to their respective rosters in June.</p><h3>Forwards</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/cropped_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771613/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200994805.jpg?ts=1740146801 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Jackson/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada Forwards" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Lp4MM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Lp4MM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="288" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions:</strong> Travis Konecny, Macklin Celebrini</p><p>If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? We're returning largely the same group up front from Canada's winning team at the 4 Nations Face-Off. The only differences are the arrival of Suzuki and Thomas, and the omission of Konecny, who was a healthy scratch in the final. We considered keeping Konecny over Jarvis, but opted for the latter because of his penalty-killing and defensive abilities.</p><p>Suzuki has evolved into one of the game's better two-way centers, putting up 89 points while finishing 13th in Selke Trophy voting. He also has a penchant for stepping up in the clutch, which should help him earn a spot on this team. Thomas, meanwhile, might've been on the 4 Nations squad if it weren't for an early-season injury. Remember, Blues general manager Doug Armstrong is picking Canada's roster, and he knows Thomas' game as well as anyone.</p><p>Both Celebrini and Connor Bedard could play their way onto this team with strong starts to the 2025-26 campaign, but that requires more projecting than we were willing to do at this point - especially given Canada's enviable depth. Celebrini has a legitimate shot. But there are concerns about Bedard's poor defensive play and the lack of pace in his game. <em>- Wegman</em></p><h3>Defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/cropped_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770769/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199644647.jpg?ts=1739665356 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada Defensemen" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0CGCM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0CGCM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="179" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Travis Sanheim, Noah Dobson </p><p>The core of Canada's defense is locked in. Toews, Makar, Morrissey, and Theodore are guarantees for Canada's roster, assuming they stay healthy, and could even form the entire top four.</p><p>Parayko was a slight surprise at the 4 Nations, but considering Armstrong is at the helm, it would now be a surprise to see the 6-foot-6 blue-liner left off the roster. Harley's evolution over the past two seasons has made him nearly impossible to deny. He was an injury replacement at the 4 Nations, but he still played over 21 minutes in the championship game to rank fourth on Canada in usage.</p><p>The big questions lie in the final two spots. Doughty will be 36 years old when the 2026 Olympics take place. The oldest defenseman on Canada's 2014 roster was then-31-year-old Dan Hamhuis. Doughty logs huge minutes in Los Angeles, but he needs to maintain - or even increase - his level of play early next season to avoid being replaced by a younger option.</p><p>Bouchard is the most polarizing Canadian defender in the game right now. His fans see an elite offensive defenseman who generates positive results and has historic levels of playoff production. His detractors view his errors as too costly for a Canadian team that can choose from an outrageous pool of talent. With two more roster spots available at the Olympics, Bouchard gets the nod as the last defender. His offensive impact is too great to leave at home, and at worst, he's a No. 8 who sits in the press box as injury insurance. <em>- Cushman</em></p><h3>Goaltending</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/cropped_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771628/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200969392.jpg?ts=1740149000 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Jackson/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada Defensemen (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8oh6z" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8oh6z/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="149" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Logan Thompson, Sam Montembeault, Darcy Kuemper</p><p>Binnington established himself as Canada's starter with his heroic effort in the championship game of the 4 Nations. That's enough to start the Olympic tournament as Canada's likely No. 1, but a lot can change between the pipes in the next six months.</p><p>Hill also remains from the 4 Nations roster. He's massive at 6-foot-6 and plays behind a similarly huge defense in Vegas. Hill's lackluster playoff run puts his position in jeopardy, and he'll need to impress early next season to maintain his spot on the roster.</p><p>The wild card here is Blackwood. The 28-year-old has seemingly turned the corner after struggles in New Jersey and early in his tenure with San Jose. He was excellent early last season with the Sharks and continued that form in a completely different environment in Colorado. At 6-foot-4 with elite athleticism, Blackwood has the highest upside of any Canadian goaltender right now and is Binnington's biggest threat for the No. 1 spot.<em> </em><em>- Cushman</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31985415/related

Projecting Canada's 2026 Olympic men's hockey roster

More from this series:   European teams 🇪🇺  United States 🇺🇸  Canada 🇨🇦   We're nearly six months...

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314367" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314367"><em>European teams </em>🇪🇺</a></li>
<li>
<em><strong>United States</strong><strong> </strong></em><strong>🇺🇸</strong>
</li>
<li>
<em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314365" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314365">Canada</a> </em>🇨🇦</li>
</ul><p>We're nearly six months away from the opening ceremonies of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics on Feb. 6. To celebrate, theScore's Kyle Cushman and Josh Wegman decided to project rosters for the men's hockey tournament, which will include NHLers for the first time since 2014.</p><p>Our series continues with Team USA, who will enter the tournament seeking its first men's Olympic hockey gold medal since the 1980 Miracle On Ice.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Unlike the 4 Nations Face-Off, which permitted teams to carry 20 skaters and dress 18, Olympic rosters are expanded. Each team can take 22 skaters and dress 20. Bolded players were named to their respective rosters in June.</p><h3>Forwards</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/cropped_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771101/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199502844.jpg?ts=1739894232 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andrea Cardin/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA Forwards" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-r1rww" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/r1rww/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="288" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions:</strong> Jason Robertson, Matthew Knies</p><p>Team USA opted for veterans at the bottom of their lineup for the 4 Nations Face-Off. The management group takes a slightly different direction this time around, replacing Chris Kreider and Brock Nelson with World Championship standouts Thompson and Keller and adding Tuch to the mix with the extra roster spot. Trocheck holds his place because he's a right-handed faceoff specialist the coaching staff will covet.</p><p>The gold medal at the Worlds was huge for USA Hockey, and the impact Thompson and Keller had adds significantly to their case for the Olympics. The Americans have a bevy of elite offensive talent and need to lean into that identity. Including Thompson and Keller on the roster - and even giving Connor a bigger role - makes the U.S. that much harder to defend against and gives them insurance in case of injury.</p><p>Robertson remains a significant omission. He was great in the second half of the campaign and finished the playoffs strong, but was quiet for much of the Stars' postseason run (his first goal didn't come until Game 3 of the Western Conference Final). He has to be superb early next season to leapfrog the other bubble players who helped the USA to its first gold at the Worlds in 92 years.</p><p>As for Tuch, he adds size and speed that could be useful on the fourth line. He led the entire NHL with 12 tipped goals, too. <em>- Cushman</em></p><h3>Defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/cropped_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771091/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200098885.jpg?ts=1739893337 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA Defensemen" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-rbryI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/rbryI/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="179" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions:</strong> Lane Hutson, Noah Hanifin</p><p>It's fair to wonder if the 4 Nations final would've gone any differently if the United States had its two top defensemen - Hughes and McAvoy - in the lineup. McAvoy suffered a season-ending shoulder injury during the round robin, while Hughes didn't suit up in the tournament at all while recovering from injury.</p><p>Behind them, Slavin and Faber showed great chemistry as the team's shutdown pair and should be reunited in Italy. Jones' length and right-handedness will certainly put him on the Americans' radar after a tremendous Cup run with the Florida Panthers. He and Werenski have chemistry dating back to their days together with the Columbus Blue Jackets, too.</p><p>Many will hope for Hutson to make this team after his historic rookie season. But as dynamic and exciting as he is, it's fair to wonder if he'd be able to hold up defensively against Canada's stacked forward group. The Americans have enough offense on their blue line, too, with Hughes, Werenski, and Fox. <em>- Wegman</em></p><h3>Goaltending</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/cropped_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770587/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198787006.jpg?ts=1753305798 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA Goaltenders" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-FM32i" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/FM32i/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="149" 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><p><strong>Toughest omissions:</strong> None</p><p>There are fair questions about Hellebuyck's big-game ability, but the three-time Vezina Trophy winner remains the likely starter. Oettinger and Swayman are near locks to make the team, too. Swayman holding his spot on the 4 Nations squad despite his poor start last season says a lot about the confidence USA Hockey has in this trio.</p><p>The Americans should be comfortable in net even if injuries strike, though. Their depth between the pipes is unmatched, with Dustin Wolf, Thatcher Demko, Anthony Stolarz, Joseph Woll, Joey Daccord, John Gibson, and Spencer Knight all capable of filling in. <em>- Wegman</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31975709/related

Projecting USA's 2026 Olympic men's hockey roster

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><strong><em>European teams</em> 🇪🇺</strong></li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314366" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314366"><em>United States</em></a> 🇺🇸</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314365" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314365"><em>Canada</em></a> 🇨🇦</li>
</ul><p>We're nearly six months away from the opening ceremonies of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics on Feb. 6. To celebrate, theScore's Kyle Cushman and Josh Wegman decided to project rosters for the men's hockey tournament, which will include NHLers for the first time since 2014.</p><p>We begin by projecting rosters for the top European countries: Czechia, Finland, Sweden, and Switzerland. While some of the other competing nations - Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, and Slovakia - boast some high-end talent, we omitted them from this exercise because their rosters will likely be mostly comprised of non-NHL players.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Unlike the 4 Nations Face-Off, which permitted teams to carry 20 skaters and dress 18, Olympic rosters are expanded - each team can take 22 skaters and dress 20. Bolded players were officially named to their respective rosters in June.</p><h3>Czechia 🇨🇿</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/cropped_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/w220xh124_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/w320xh180_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/w640xh360_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/w768xh432_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/630219/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2153987832.jpg?ts=1716644411 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eurasia Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Czechia" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GSMsd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GSMsd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="465" 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><p>With legitimate firepower up front and a goalie with game-stealing ability in Dostal, Czechia could be a medal contender in Italy. Pastrnak, Zacha, Necas, and Hertl are a legitimate quartet of forwards that Czechia can build its lineup around. Don't sleep on Kulich, either, as he's coming off a strong rookie season.</p><p>Czechia's biggest weakness is the left side of the blue line, which we had to piece together with three non-NHLers in Krejcik, Hajek, and Kempny. That group needs to play greater than the sum of its parts. On the bright side, the majority of this group has experienced winning together, taking home gold at the 2024 World Championship. Camaraderie and chemistry can go a long way in a short tournament. <em>- Wegman</em></p><h3>Finland 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/cropped_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770742/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199844114.jpg?ts=1739652910 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andrea Cardin/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Finland" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XNpxo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XNpxo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="499" 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><p>Finland is the defending gold medalist, having beaten Russia in the championship game at the 2022 Olympics. The Finns have a path to another medal with a core of elite two-way players who can make life difficult for the deeper teams in the tournament. The third line with Luostarinen and Lundell can be a difference-maker, just as we saw in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.</p><p>But the team's biggest piece is Heiskanen. His presence completely overhauls the makeup of the group and puts the more defensive blue-liners into better-suited roles. Finland can also pull from European-based options, making World Championship captain Lehtonen a candidate for depth on the backend. The Finns won't be favored, but count them out at your own peril. <em>- Cushman</em></p><h3>Sweden 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/cropped_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770761/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199640331.jpg?ts=1739660944 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Sweden" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8sJFg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8sJFg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="499" 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><p>If Sweden's going to win its first Olympic gold since 2006, it's going to be on the back of arguably the tournament's best blue line. Dahlin is a legitimate Norris Trophy contender. Veterans Hedman and Karlsson still have game left. Forsling and Brodin are among the league's best shutdown defenders, though there are questions about the latter, as he could miss the start of the 2025-26 season while recovering from offseason surgery.</p><p>While the forward corps may lack a true superstar, its depth can only be matched by Canada and the United States. There are question marks down the middle, though, with Pettersson coming off a down year and Zibanejad being relegated to the wing with the New York Rangers last season. Eriksson Ek, Karlsson, and Lindholm are all good two-way players, though. <em>- Wegman</em></p><h3>Switzerland 🇨🇭</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/cropped_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795350/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154041805.jpg?ts=1753306701 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">RvS.Media/Monika Majer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Switzerland" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QlDtc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QlDtc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="427" 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><p>Switzerland will again be an upset candidate at the Olympics with a quality offensive core and a legitimately good top four on the back end. Hischier, Meier, and Fiala give the Swiss the kind of firepower they've typically lacked at major tournaments, and don't overlook Suter and the 25 goals he potted with the Canucks last season.</p><p>Josi's health is the biggest factor. If he's on his game, his offensive creativity is a game-changer. Siegenthaler, Bichsel, and Moser are all strong defensive presences who can get the puck up to their talented forwards. The goaltending is weak, but 37-year-old Genoni just won MVP at the Worlds. If he has a little bit of magic left, the Swiss could be a dark-horse threat for a medal. <em>- Cushman</em></p>

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Projecting men's Olympic hockey rosters for top European countries

Hockey Canada announced Friday the 42 men's players invited to an off-ice Olympic orientation cam...

<p>Hockey Canada announced Friday the 42 men's players invited to an off-ice Olympic orientation camp set for Aug. 26-28 in Calgary.</p><p>The organization also extended invitations to 30 players for the <a href="https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/team-canada/women/olympics/2026/road-to-italy/roster-aug">women's team</a> and 20 players for the <a href="https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/team-canada/men/para-hockey/2026-paralympics/road-to-italy/orientation-camp">para team</a>.</p><p>Among the 42 NHL players selected to the camp are 20-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> and 19-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a>, the first overall picks in the 2023 and 2024 NHL Drafts, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's the full list of invitees from the men's side:<br>🍁 = Named to Olympic roster in June as part of six-player announcement by each competing country<br>🏆 = Represented Canada at February's 4 Nations Face-Off triumph<br>🥇 = Represented Canada at a previous Olympics</p><h3>Forwards (26)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a></td>
<td>Blackhawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9210">Quinton Byfield</a></td>
<td>Kings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a></td>
<td>Sharks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4748" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4748">Anthony Cirelli</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> 🍁🏆🥇</td>
<td>Penguins</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5633" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5633">Brandon Hagel</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a></td>
<td>Islanders</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1723">Zach Hyman</a></td>
<td>Oilers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Hurricanes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10699">Wyatt Johnston</a></td>
<td>Stars</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4574" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4574">Travis Konecny</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> 🍁🏆</td>
<td>Avalanche</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Golden Knights</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> 🍁🏆</td>
<td>Oilers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2031" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2031">Ryan Nugent-Hopkins</a></td>
<td>Oilers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4013" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4013">Brayden Point</a> 🍁🏆</td>
<td>Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a> 🍁🏆</td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2150" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2150">Mark Scheifele</a></td>
<td>Jets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Golden Knights</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a></td>
<td>Canadiens</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a> 🥇</td>
<td>Maple Leafs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6443" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6443">Robert Thomas</a></td>
<td>Blues</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3208" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3208">Carter Verhaeghe</a></td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a></td>
<td>Capitals</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Defense (13)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7827">Evan Bouchard</a></td>
<td>Oilers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7911">Noah Dobson</a></td>
<td>Canadiens</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/560">Drew Doughty</a> 🏆🥇</td>
<td>Kings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3946" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3946">Aaron Ekblad</a></td>
<td>Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8659" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8659">Thomas Harley</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Stars</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8539" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8539">Cale Makar</a> 🍁🏆</td>
<td>Avalanche</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4487" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4487">Brandon Montour</a></td>
<td>Kraken</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Jets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4482" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4482">Colton Parayko</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Blues</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4175">Travis Sanheim</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3232" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3232">Shea Theodore</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Golden Knights</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5553">Devon Toews</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Avalanche</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3222" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3222">MacKenzie Weegar</a></td>
<td>Flames</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Goalies (3)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Blues</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4649" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4649">Adin Hill</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Golden Knights</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4728" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4728">Sam Montembeault</a> 🏆</td>
<td>Canadiens</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Full Olympic hockey rosters must be submitted by Dec. 31. St. Louis Blues president of hockey operations and general manager Doug Armstrong will lead the selection process for Canada's team. Tampa Bay Lightning bench boss Jon Cooper is the head coach.</p><p>Players not invited to the orientation camp can still make the Olympic roster.</p><p>The men's hockey tournament runs from Feb. 12-22 in Milan.</p><p>Canada won the last two Olympic men's hockey tournaments that included NHL players in 2014 and 2010.</p>

SAN JOSE, CA - MARCH 13: Macklin Celebrini #71 of the San Jose Sharks takes a face-off against Connor Bedard #98 of the Chicago Blackhawks in the first period at SAP Center on March 13, 2025 in San Jose, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31943672/related

Bedard, Celebrini among 42 NHLers invited to Canada's Olympic camp

The Toronto Maple Leafs and restricted free-agent forward Nick Robertson are just over $1M apart ...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs and restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8758" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8758">Nick Robertson</a> are just over $1M apart in their arbitration filings ahead of Sunday's hearing, according to <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1951274251861848454">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.</p><p>The Maple Leafs reportedly filed at $1.2 million, while Robertson filed for $2.25 million. The two sides can still negotiate up until the arbitration hearing, which is the last one scheduled across the league.</p><p>Robertson, 23, has been an efficient scorer in a bottom-six role for the Maple Leafs over the last two seasons, but he's failed to carve out consistent playing time. He potted 15 goals and seven assists in 69 games last season, averaging 12 minutes per contest. He tallied 14 goals and 13 assists in 56 games the year before, averaging 11:23 per appearance.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 5-foot-9 winger was a healthy scratch for 10 of Toronto's 13 playoff games, though he did manage a goal and an assist in his three postseason appearances.</p><p>Robertson requested a trade from the Maple Leafs following the 2023-24 season, but nothing materialized. As an RFA without arbitration rights, he eventually settled for a one-year, $875,000 deal.</p><p>Now with some leverage on his side, Robertson is set for a pay raise. <a href="https://afpanalytics.com/">AFP Analytics</a> projected he'd sign a two-year contract with a $1.5-million cap hit.</p><p>However, it's unclear what kind of role he may have with the Maple Leafs this coming season. Following the loss of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a>, the club added three forwards who figure to be lineup locks in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10885" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10885">Matias Maccelli</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10054" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10054">Dakota Joshua</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4714" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4714">Nicolas Roy</a>. In addition to Marner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11027" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11027">Pontus Holmberg</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/666" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/666">Max Pacioretty</a> are the only other notable departures up front.</p><p>Toronto has $2.9 million in cap space.</p><p>The Maple Leafs drafted Robertson in the second round in 2019. He made his NHL debut in the 2020 playoff bubble as an 18-year-old, but his development was hindered by multiple injuries. He's amassed 32 goals and 24 assists in 156 career NHL regular-season games across five seasons.</p><p>Robertson is under team control until 2029.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MAY 14: Nicholas Robertson #89 of the Toronto Maple Leafs waits for a faceoff against the Florida Panthers during the second period in Game Five of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on May 14, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Maple Leafs, Robertson over $1M apart in arbitration filings

The San Diego Padres bolstered their pitching staff Thursday, acquiring reliever Mason Miller and...

<p>The San Diego Padres bolstered their pitching staff Thursday, acquiring reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16437">Mason Miller</a> and starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13688">JP Sears</a> from the Athletics, the teams announced.</p><p>The A's will receive shortstop Leodalis De Vries, the No. 3 prospect in baseball, plus right-handers Braden Nett, Henry Baez, and Eduarniel Núñez.</p><p>Miller has established himself as one of the game's premier closers. He owns a 3.76 ERA this season, though his FIP is 2.86 and his FanGraphs expected ERA is 2.82. The flamethrower has fanned 59 batters in 38.1 innings with a fastball that averages 101 mph.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old owns a 3.16 ERA across parts of three MLB seasons. He's under team control through the 2029 season.</p><p>Miller gives the Padres' already loaded relief corps another weapon. Led by closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13691" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13691">Robert Suarez</a> and setup man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4322" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4322">Jason Adam</a>, San Diego owns the best bullpen ERA in the majors.</p><p>Sears, a four-year veteran, has recorded a 4.95 ERA in 111 innings across 22 starts this season. The 29-year-old left-hander has a career ERA of 4.48. He's under team control for three more seasons after 2025.</p><p>De Vries, 18, is hitting .245/.357/.410 with eight homers, 46 RBIs, and eight stolen bases in 368 plate appearances at High-A this season.</p><p>Nett, Baez, and Núñez were considered San Diego's No. 3, No. 13, and No. 17 prospects, respectively, per MLB Pipeline.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 13: Mason Miller #19 of the Athletics reacts after getting Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to ground into a double play to defeat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-3 and pick up his 19th save of the season at Sutter Health Park on July 13, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Padres add Miller, Sears from Athletics

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired starter Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for ...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays acquired starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a> from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for pitching prospect Khal Stephen, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>Bieber is recovering from Tommy John surgery he underwent in April 2024 and has yet to pitch in the majors this season, though he appears to be nearing a return to a big-league mound. He's registered a 1.59 ERA with 21 strikeouts and one walk in 11.1 innings across four minor-league rehab starts. He threw 58 pitches and topped out at 94 mph in his most recent outing.</p><p>The 30-year-old won the AL Cy Young in the shortened 2020 season, posting a league-best 1.63 ERA. Since that career year, he's managed a 3.13 ERA across 70 starts in parts of four campaigns before the elbow injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He owns a 5.00 ERA in three career playoff starts.</p><p>Bieber's contract includes a $16-million player option for next season.</p><p>When he returns, Bieber will bolster a Blue Jays rotation that's posted a 4.51 ERA in 2025 - the seventh-worst in the majors. The group currently includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8244" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8244">Eric Lauer</a>. Toronto is tied for the best record in the AL despite its inconsistent pitching. The club also added reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a> on Tuesday and is reportedly seeking more bullpen help.</p><p>Stephen, 22, was Toronto's No. 5 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. A second-round pick of the Blue Jays in 2024, the 6-foot-4 right-hander owns a 2.06 ERA in 91.1 innings across three minor-league levels this season. His fastball sits between 92-94 mph, topping out at 96. His changeup is considered his best off-speed pitch.</p><p>This marks the third notable trade the Blue Jays have made with the Guardians in the last calendar year. They acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a> from Cleveland in December, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8938">Myles Straw</a> in January.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 27: Starting pitcher Shane Bieber #57 of the Cleveland Guardians pitches during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 27, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Blue Jays land Bieber from Guardians

The Calgary Flames signed forward Martin Pospisil to a three-year contract extension with a $2.5-...

<p>The Calgary Flames signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11086" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11086">Martin Pospisil</a> to a three-year contract extension with a $2.5-million average annual value, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>Pospisil was set to be a restricted free agent in 2026. His extension buys two years of unrestricted free agency.</p><p>The 25-year-old recorded 25 points in 81 games last season. He primarily played a bottom-six role with the Flames, spending time at both wing and center. His 301 hits tied for third among all NHL skaters.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pospisil notched 24 points in 60 games as a rookie in 2023-24.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Martin Pospisil, signed to a 3x$2.5M extension by CGY, is a bottom six forward who plays a unique and unhinged game featuring blazing speed, maximum hitting, solid playmaking, and crummy finishing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Flames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Flames</a> <a href="https://t.co/pOZTvsFrqO">pic.twitter.com/pOZTvsFrqO</a></p>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1950606783900270850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Flames drafted the 6-foot-2 Slovakian forward in the fourth round in 2018.</p>

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 07: Martin Pospisil #76 of the Calgary Flames shoots on goal against the San Jose Sharks during the first period of an NHL hockey game at SAP Center on April 07, 2025 in San Jose, California.

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Flames sign Pospisil to 3-year extension

The Winnipeg Jets avoided arbitration with defenseman Dylan Samberg on Wednesday, agreeing to a t...

<p>The Winnipeg Jets avoided arbitration with defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9989" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9989">Dylan Samberg</a> on Wednesday, agreeing to a three-year contract with an average annual value of $5.75 million, the team announced.</p><p>Samberg, a 26-year-old restricted free agent who was one year away from unrestricted free agency, was scheduled to have his arbitration hearing Wednesday.</p><p>The Jets filed for $2.5 million in arbitration, while Samberg filed for $6 million. He only would've been eligible for a one-year contract in arbitration since he's a year away from being a UFA.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Samberg became a fixture as a top-four defenseman for the Jets last season, logging a career-high 21:08 per game in 60 appearances. He only produced 20 points but was a key reason why Winnipeg allowed the fewest goals in the league. The 26-year-old racked up a team-leading 120 blocks and ranked second among all NHL defensemen in <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>'s goals above replacement metric (18.9).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dylan Samberg, signed 3x$5.8M by WPG, is a two-way puck-moving defenceman who combines strong defensive play with great passing ability, making clean transition plays while avoiding turnovers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoJetsGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoJetsGo</a> <a href="https://t.co/kFl5Fc1zCI">pic.twitter.com/kFl5Fc1zCI</a></p>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1950538405026439361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 6-foot-4 blue-liner also averaged 24:04 in 13 playoff games in 2025, the second-most on the Jets.</p><p>The Jets now have their top four on defense signed for at least the next three seasons. Samberg, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2549" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2549">Dylan DeMelo</a> are all under contract through 2027-28, while Samberg's primary partner - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6396" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6396">Neal Pionk</a> - is set to enter the first season of a six-year deal.</p><p>Winnipeg is left with $4.79 million in cap space after the re-signing.</p><p>The Jets selected Samberg in the second round of the 2017 NHL Draft. He's tallied 51 points in 216 career games across four seasons.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - MAY 7: Dylan Samberg #54 of the Winnipeg Jets keeps an eye on the play during first period action against the Dallas Stars in Game One of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canada Life Centre on May 7, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The Stars defeated the Jets 3-2 and lead the series 1-0.

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Jets avoid arbitration with Samberg on 3-year, $17.25M deal

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

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

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

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Backstrom signs with Swedish team Brynas IF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Blake Wheeler retires after 16 seasons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Halak retires after 17-year NHL career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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