The Vegas Golden Knights spoiled the Seattle Kraken's first regular-season contest on Tuesday night, hanging on for a 4-3 victory.Vegas jumped out to a 3-0 lead, but Seattle stormed back to tie the game in the third period before Chandler Stephenson netted the eventual winner. Stephenson's tally came 35 seconds after Morgan Geekie buried the equalizer, and it was held up following a review for a possible kicking motion.Markers from Max Pacioretty and Jonathan Marchessault in the opening seven minutes made it seem like a rout was coming early, but Seattle hung tough and carried most of the play. After 60 minutes, the Kraken had produced 54.25% of shot attempts, 51.16% of scoring chances, and 51.15% of expected goals at five-on-five, according to Natural Stat Trick.Ryan Donato, who signed with the Kraken as a free agent this past summer, scored the franchise's first-ever goal in the second period.Seattle returns to action Friday versus the Nashville Predators.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tonight we have 10 teams slated to begin their 2021-22 NHL campaign.While some injury concerns have muddied up the betting board, there's still value to be found. Let's dive in.Bet: Rangers (+110)I think the Rangers are overvalued on the futures market but, oddly enough, there's value on them in their opener.This is the kind of line I'd expect if both teams were at full strength. The Rangers are fully healthy while the Washington Capitals, well, aren't.Nicklas Backstrom is starting the season on the sidelines, which leaves them a little thin down the middle against a team with a solid one-two-three punch. Alex Ovechkin's health is in question as well following an injury late in preseason. Even if he plays, which is looking more likely, he will surely be at less than full health.The biggest edge for New York is probably in goal, though. Igor Shesterkin has been one of the league's best netminders since he debuted late in 2020.Ilya Samsonov and Vitek Vanecek, while talented, have both had their share of issues. Each allowed at least six more goals than expected last year.Ovechkin or not, I like the Rangers as 'dogs in this spot.Bet: Jets (-127)The Anaheim Ducks were an unmitigated disaster last year. They were routinely dominated at five-on-five, ranking 27th in expected goals for share. Nobody scored fewer power-play goals (11 in 56 games) and only the lowly Buffalo Sabres won fewer games.Despite posting horrendous results across the board, and returning almost the exact same roster, they appear to be getting too much credit to start this season.While I'm generally not racing to bet a road favorite missing their No. 1 center (Mark Scheifele), this line feels a little out of place.The Jets still have plenty of firepower with Nik Ehlers, Kyle Connor, Pierre-Luc Dubois, and Blake Wheeler leading the charge. Rookie Cole Perfetti could give their bottom-six forwards a nice shot in the arm. And their defense should be much more potent with newcomers Brenden Dillon and Nate Schmidt claiming top-four spots.If all else fails, the Jets can rely on arguably the league's best goaltender. Connor Hellebuyck has saved more goals above expectation than anyone over the last two years; the gap has been nearly 20 goals! I like his odds of keeping the offensively challenged Ducks in check.Todd Cordell is a sports betting writer at theScore. Be sure to follow him on Twitter @ToddCordell.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Chicago Blackhawks are getting calls from teams about forward Dylan Strome's availability, reports The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun.Chicago has a surplus of centers on its roster with the return of Jonathan Toews and arrival of Tyler Johnson from Tampa Bay, as well as a fully healthy Kirby Dach.The Blackhawks acquired Strome, 24, from the Arizona Coyotes in November 2018 for Nick Schmaltz. He was electric during his first season in Chicago, recording 51 points in 58 games. Over the last two campaigns, he's managed just 55 points in 98 contests.The Coyotes selected Strome with the third overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft. He signed a two-year extension with an average annual value of $3 million with the Blackhawks prior to the 2020-21 season. He'll be a restricted free agent at the conclusion of this year.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon and head coach Jared Bednar will miss the team's first game of the 2021-22 campaign after testing positive for COVID-19, general manager Joe Sakic announced Tuesday, per Altitude TV's Marc Moser.Both are asymptomatic, Sakic added.The Avs open their season Wednesday against the Chicago Blackhawks.MacKinnon was a Hart Trophy finalist last campaign after recording 65 points in 48 games.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Are you ready for the first full NHL season since 2018-19? We've cooked up 22 predictions - some complete long shots, others pretty realistic - to preview the 2021-22 campaign. OK, here goes nothing:1. Lightning almost three-peat, lose to Avalanche in Cup FinalThe Tampa Bay Lightning, along with the Vegas Golden Knights and Colorado Avalanche, are a popular Stanley Cup pick. Frankly, the two-time defending champions are probably the most talented team in the Eastern Conference and another lengthy playoff run would not register as a surprise. Still, there's a reason why no franchise has won three titles in a row since the early 1980s: burnout. Too much hockey. Coach Jon Cooper also lost his entire third line this past summer, which is no minor development given the trio's contributions to Tampa's Cup wins. It says here either the Golden Knights or Avalanche will meet the Lightning in the Cup Final, and my money's on Nathan MacKinnon-led Colorado winning for the first time since 2001.2. McDavid destroys regular season, collects 150 pointsMario Lemieux was the last NHLer to record 150 points, doing so in 1995-96 when he put up an absurd 161 in 70 games. Connor McDavid, who's in the prime of his career at 24 years old, is more than capable of hitting 150 if he can play all 82. This is the year. I don't think people realize the historical relevance of his 2020-21: McDavid's 105 points in 56 games sits ninth all time on Hockey Reference's era-adjusted ranking. A regular offseason with no rehab will help. The cross-checking crackdown will, too. Having puck retrieving wizard Zach Hyman on his wing won't hurt. Most of all, McDavid has been getting progressively more pissed off every time the Edmonton Oilers are bounced early from the playoffs. He's on a mission here. Speaking of the Oilers, they may not be better overall after a busy offseason but the forward group is unquestionably deeper. Which, again, will help McDavid in his quest for 150. Icon Sportswire / Getty Images3. Flames' Gaudreau-Monahan era endsSince forwards Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan first donned Calgary Flames jerseys back in 2013-14, the team has won a grand total of two playoff series. It's looking unlikely Calgary will add to that tally in 2021-22. On an individual level over that time, both players have neither greatly exceeded expectations or completely disappointed the fan base. All of that context, combined with the fact their playing styles don't mesh perfectly with how coach Darryl Sutter prefers to play, points toward a major shakeup in Flames land. Maybe Gaudreau, a pending unrestricted free agent, is gone by this time next year. Maybe it's Monahan, the goal-scorer. Maybe both leave. There will be a market for two pillars of a Flames core that's already lost Dougie Hamilton, TJ Brodie, Sam Bennett, Mark Giordano, and others in recent years.4. Theodore wins Norris TrophyShea Theodore has never finished higher than sixth in Norris voting, so this prediction is relying heavily on the Vegas Golden Knight's upward trajectory. Theodore, who's 26 years old and entering his sixth NHL season, has the prototypical modern defenseman's toolkit, plus size. His mobility and vision are elite. He's leveled up the past two seasons in terms of point production and his ice time is slowly creeping up to the 25-minute mark. Award voters are analyzing blue-liners with greater sophistication today than, say, 10 years ago, and Theodore boasts excellent underlying numbers. Yes, Cale Makar, Dougie Hamilton, Victor Hedman, and a few others might have better betting odds for the Norris. But Theodore's a guy who still has another gear or two.5. Kraken finish bottom five in goals scoredIf I had magical powers I'd make sure the Seattle Kraken are one of the 16 teams competing in the 2022 playoffs. Expansion teams are undeniably intriguing and easy to root for. Obviously, I don't have magical powers - which sucks because I just don't believe in the Kraken. It's hard to envision them snagging a Western Conference playoff spot when they're on track to trot out Yanni Gourde, Jared McCann, Alex Wennberg, Morgan Geekie, and Riley Sheahan at center. (Making matters worse, McCann is in COVID-19 protocols and Gourde is injured right now.) Seattle is set in net and the defense corps is strong. A serious lack of goal-scoring will be their undoing. Jamie Sabau / Getty Images6. Laine rebounds, gets traded - againPatrik Laine is coming off the worst statistical season of his career. Yet he's too young (23) and too dazzling in spurts (see this?) to be labeled a bust. This year, he should garner plenty of ice time on a talent-light Columbus Blue Jackets team. New coach Brad Larsen is a breath of fresh air after John Tortorella. Time to showcase Laine, who's still chasing down a spot on the Finnish Olympic team. If all goes well, how does Laine, a pending restricted free agent, not get flipped ahead of the trade deadline? He doesn't scream "Columbus lifer" and the rebuilding Jackets can easily retain salary.7. Knight wins Calder Trophy, earns Vezina votesSpencer Knight, the Florida Panthers' 20-year-old goalie, doesn't boast a robust pro resume (six total games). And yes, partner Sergei Bobrovsky's annual salary is 10 times greater. But this Knight kid is unshakeable in the crease. He possesses all of the requisite skills to be a franchise goalie in the modern NHL, and GM Bill Zito and coach Joel Quenneville - who weren't around for the Bobrovsky signing debacle - aren't tied to the other guy. Knight will get starts and Florida will provide him with more than enough support, defensively and offensively. Fellow rookies Cole Caufield, Trevor Zegras, and Quinton Byfield (currently injured) are terrific talents, and I expect them to put up impressive numbers. Knight's arc, though, should win him the hardware.8. Cringeworthy race to bottom of standingsWith Connor McDavid up for grabs in the 2015 NHL Draft, the Buffalo Sabres and Arizona Coyotes took tanking to the extreme. The race for last culminated when Sabres fans cheered for the visiting Coyotes during a late-season matchup. It wasn't a great look, to say the least. This coming season, with the Coyotes, Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, and to a lesser extent, Columbus Blue Jackets, all actively trying not to win, expect a similar vibe down the stretch. (Those goaltending tandems in Buffalo and Arizona are, uh, something.) The grand prize in 2021 is Shane Wright, another can't-miss center prospect.9. Canucks nab Pacific Division playoff spotOn paper, the Pacific can be divided into three tiers. At opposite ends are the Stanley Cup-contending Vegas Golden Knights and the basement-dwelling San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks. In the chaotic middle are the Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Seattle Kraken, Calgary Flames, and Los Angeles Kings. The Oilers should finish second. The Canucks, meanwhile, hold the slight edge for the third spot. Vancouver's forward group is scary, from Elias Pettersson and Conor Garland to Bo Horvat and Brock Boeser, and so on. Goalie Thatcher Demko is an absolute stud. And the Canucks are due to bounce back after getting hammered by COVID-19 in 2020-21. Andy Devlin / Getty Images10. Toews plays his way into Olympic conversationPredicting Jonathan Toews' inclusion on Team Canada would be the truly bold take. Given Canada's enviable forward depth and how far Toews must come over the next few months just to be in the conversation for an Olympic roster spot, it's simply a bridge too far after the Chicago Blackhawks captain missed all of last season. That said, I'm willing to predict Hockey Canada will strongly consider him. The 33-year-old has looked fantastic in preseason action. Kirby Dach's emergence as Chicago's No. 1 center will give Toews easier matchups, and there's a compelling case for selecting a two-time Olympian like Toews, even if it's in a depth/leadership role. At any rate, let's hope Toews' health continues to hold up so he can reach the 1,000-game milestone (he's 57 games shy) and earn a Bill Masterton Trophy nomination.11. Avalanche thrive in net despite losing GrubauerIn one of the offseason's biggest splashes, Philipp Grubauer left Colorado and signed a six-year deal with the expansion Seattle Kraken. Avalanche GM Joe Sakic reacted by trading for Arizona Coyotes netminder Darcy Kuemper, who's entering the final season of a two-year deal. Not only will the Avs survive the perceived downgrade in goal (remember, Grubauer is a reigning Vezina Trophy finalist), but they'll thrive with Kuemper between the pipes. The Avalanche are underrated defensively. They are absolutely capable of insulating Kuemper, who through 242 NHL games has mustered an impressive save percentage of .917. Kuemper's issue has been nagging injuries, not performance. Here's to a clean bill of health for the Saskatchewan native because he's now in the goalie-friendly environment that helped lift Grubauer.12. Poile becomes first coach/executive firedIt never ceases to amaze that David Poile has been GM of the Nashville Predators for the entirety of the franchise's existence. Since 1997, the Preds have made the playoffs a respectable 14 times, including seven straight years coming into 2021-22. Less impressive? The lack of postseason success (aside from a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017) and the current roster Poile has constructed. Nashville's in an awkward stage. It isn't officially rebuilding, yet it's not close to contending, with bloated contracts on the books and a pipeline that isn't bursting at the seams with premier talent. Clearly, the Preds' ownership group has been incredibly patient with Poile over the years. It's time to move on, though, and see what somebody else can do in the GM role.13. Coyotes flip Kessel early in seasonThe Arizona Coyotes' CapFriendly page is something to behold. Only seven of 23 players on the NHL roster are under contract for the 2022-23 season, and just three of those seven (Clayton Keller, Nick Schmaltz, Jakob Chychrun) are committed for 2023-24 and beyond. It's remarkable what GM Bill Armstrong is doing, stripping the team down to the studs. And forward Phil Kessel, at a $6.8-million cap hit, should be the next asset flipped for futures. Timing is the unpredictable part. There's a case to be made for an early-season Kessel trade, however. Give him a month to strut his stuff, then get on with it. The acquiring club gets a proven sniper for the vast majority of the season and Arizona can facilitate by retaining half of his salary. There's absolutely no reason to wait until the trade deadline next March. Dave Sandford / Getty Images14. More NHLers come forward with their storiesIn the last few weeks alone, Montreal Canadiens forward Jonathan Drouin has gone public with his battle with anxiety, Vegas Golden Knights goalie Robin Lehner has called out the NHL for alleged medical malpractice, and Canadiens goalie Carey Price has voluntarily entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program. Each situation is unique, but there is a binding theme: Players are ostensibly becoming increasingly comfortable speaking out and prioritizing their personal health. This isn't an overnight phenomenon, mind you; players have put themselves out there previously. However, it does feel like there's been a destigmatization over time, which is very encouraging, and it wouldn't be a shock if the vulnerability and candor continue throughout this coming season.15. Leafs pursue proven goalie midseasonLook, the Toronto Maple Leafs' goaltending tandem of Jack Campbell and Petr Mrazek could be fine, even good. Those are two netminders who have shown flashes of being a quality NHL starter. But is there enough reliability and security? There is simply too much riding on this Leafs season for so many people in the organization - namely GM Kyle Dubas and coach Sheldon Keefe - to be gambling, in any way, on the most important position. It won't be easy from a salary cap perspective, but the names John Gibson (Anaheim), Tuukka Rask (free agent), and Anton Khudobin/Ben Bishop (Dallas) come to mind immediately as possible upgrades, assuming their respective situations allow for a change of scenery. If 2020-21 was "All or Nothing" for Toronto, 2021-22 is "Win or Big Changes." Dubas must do everything he can to ice the best possible squad heading into the playoffs, and that includes goaltending.16. Kuznetsov-Capitals drama escalatesReports out of Washington Capitals training camp suggest everything is hunky-dory with respect to top-six center Evgeny Kuznetsov. And, hey, maybe team and player can get back on the same wavelength in 2021-22. But let's not forget 2020-21 was an unmitigated disaster for Kuznetsov, who was suspended for breaking COVID-19 protocols, twice tested positive for the virus, became a healthy scratch after showing up late to a team function, and failed to produce offense at a rate worthy of his hefty contract. The offseason rumor mill had Kuznetsov firmly on the trade block. What changed, if anything? Is the preseason optimism legitimate or simply a function of a new beginning? Here's a theory that makes some sense: Kuznetsov is on a short leash, and one more misstep will trigger the end of his Caps tenure. Another theory: Kuznetsov is Plan B for teams that don't land Jack Eichel via trade.17. Eichel resolution farther away than it appearsNobody really knows when the months-long staredown between the Buffalo Sabres and Jack Eichel will end. Pat Brisson, Eichel's new agent, is one of the most powerful figures in hockey, so this thing should be headed in the right direction. That said, because of the risk inherent in acquiring an injured $10-million player, I have a hunch this complex situation drags on all the way past the Beijing Olympics and bumps up against the trade deadline. By then, hopefully Eichel has finally healed (whether through surgery or rehab) and can be showcased for a handful of games in a Sabres uniform. The former captain last played this past March. He might not get traded until March 2022.18. Svechnikov scores 40 goalsThis is the year Andrei Svechnikov exchanges the "future all-world sniper" tag for "all-world sniper." In 82 games as a rookie, the Russian potted 20 goals, all at even strength. Then, in the past two shortened seasons, he scored 24 in 68 contests, for a pace of 29 over 82 games, and 15 in 55, for a pace of 22 over 82. Armed with a long-term contract and a proper offseason to polish his game, watch Svechnikov pop playing alongside superstar center Sebastian Aho. Svechnikov has the tools - that wicked shot, specifically - and now the reps. A 40-goal breakout is next.19. Maurice wins Jack Adams AwardPredicting the coach of the year is tough because voters tend to gravitate toward bench bosses of teams who far exceed expectations. Paul Maurice's Winnipeg Jets received a decent amount of preseason buzz based on a productive offseason. Yet seemingly nobody is talking about the possibility of the Jets finishing first in the Central Division. If that happens (they'd have to usurp the Colorado Avalanche, which is unlikely but doable), Maurice will no doubt be in contention for the Jack Adams. The league's broadcasters make up the voting body, and Maurice is arguably the NHL's most media-friendly coach. In general, he's well-respected in hockey circles; he's a 54-year-old with oodles of experience who manages to evolve with the times. Dave Sandford / Getty Images20. COVID-19 continues to dominate headlinesReports indicate around 99% of NHLers are vaccinated. Huge props to the NHL, NHLPA, and the players themselves for buying into the greater good. Of course, a vaccinated person can still contract COVID-19, so, as we saw in the preseason, players and coaches will miss games to adhere to the league's strict protocols. A number of teams' seasons were completely derailed last year. I don't foresee that happening again, yet we're not out of the woods with this stubborn pandemic. For that reason, and the fact that the players are assuming all of the COVID-19-related insurance risk of going to the Olympics, COVID-19 will, unfortunately, remain a top storyline in 2021-22.21. Senators finish higher than Canadiens in Atlantic DivisionIt's fair to say the Montreal Canadiens' run to the Stanley Cup Final was a half mirage. They ran hot after finishing 18th in the league standings. Now, they're starting the 2021-22 season without No. 1 goalie Carey Price while captain Shea Weber is expected to miss the whole year. The Habs have decent fill-ins (Jake Allen for Price; David Savard for Weber) and could score more goals with the emergence of Cole Caufield. However, the Ottawa Senators are rising and the potent mixture of a nothing-to-lose mentality and growth among a promising young core could very well vault them above Montreal in a top-heavy division. It will be super close - I'm not predicting a playoff spot for the Sens - but Ottawa is primed to surpass the Habs in points.22. Jersey ads the tip of the icebergFirst, helmet decals. Now, starting this season, small jersey advertisements. And, like with the decals, we'll accept the visual change in due time. Even the sport's purists will forget about it after a while. Both of these have been introduced and accepted in part because the pandemic has decimated league revenue. Saying they're necessary would be a stretch but there's certainly a strong business case. Placing ads on helmets and jerseys creates a gateway to other pieces of equipment. Goalie pads are prime real estate. Are they next? Could shin pads be a bridge between jerseys and goalie pads? Maybe tricked-out skates first? At any rate, Pandora's box has been opened. There's no going back with these non-traditional ads. Just forward.John Matisz is theScore's senior NHL writer.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Nikita Gusev is heading back to SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL, the league announced Tuesday.The 29-year-old was recently released from his professional tryout with the Toronto Maple Leafs after recording a pair of assists in three preseason games.Gusev arrived in the NHL with plenty of hype. He lived up to it in his first campaign, tallying 44 points in 66 games with the New Jersey Devils in 2019-20.Things took a turn for the worst last season, though, as he only managed four goals and six assists in 31 contests split between the Devils and the Florida Panthers while posting poor underlying metrics.Gusev was one of the KHL's most electric players before he headed to North America, racking up 82 points in 62 games in 2018-19 with SKA St. Petersburg.He also led the Olympic Athletes of Russia to a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, pacing the team with 12 points in six contests.Gusev was originally a seventh-round pick by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2012.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Vitali Kravtsov's time in the Big Apple may come to an end before it really got going.The New York Rangers have given the forward permission to contact other teams in pursuit of a trade after he was left off the season-opening roster, reports Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.Kravtsov was unhappy that he didn't make the team, DailyFaceoff's Frank Seravalli added.The Rangers selected Kravtsov ninth overall at the 2018 draft. The 6-foot-3 winger skated in 20 games with the Blueshirts last season, registering two goals and two assists while averaging 12:24 per contest.Kravtsov also logged 49 games in the KHL last season, tallying 16 goals and eight assists with Chelyabinsk Traktor.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Opening night is finally here!Though we have just two games to work with, they're good ones. We'll see the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning play host to the always competitive Pittsburgh Penguins.Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken play their first-ever game against the Vegas Golden Knights in a battle of the league's two newest teams.Let's get to our best bets.Lightning -1.5 (+115)Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Jake Guentzel are just a few of the notable players the Penguins will be without in the season opener.Hanging around in the game, let alone winning, is a huge ask against most teams given the circumstances. But I just can't see it being possible against the Lightning.Tampa Bay is best known as a high-powered offensive team, but it's also very stout defensively. The Lightning ranked fourth in shot attempts against and sixth in expected goals against per 60 minutes at five-on-five last season. They don't give up much, and they have arguably the league's best goaltender - Andrei Vasilevskiy - to clean up the mess when they do.The Lightning should be able to neutralize the Penguins' watered-down attack with relative ease. Even if Pittsburgh can somehow slow Tampa Bay, its chances are relatively slim; a strong finishing team doesn't need many good looks against Tristan Jarry.Though his 2020-21 counting numbers look OK on the surface, there were problems under the hood. Perhaps the biggest issue is the fact Jarry allowed 11.8 more goals than expected, which ranked him near the bottom of the league.The Lightning - even after losing some important role players during the offseason - are much deeper than the Penguins, and the talent discrepancy is more extreme with Pittsburgh missing its stars up front.I was able to get the Lightning in regulation on Monday but the odds moved significantly overnight, so we're going to take a shot on a multi-goal victory.Player PropsSince a lot of uncertainty looms over the Seattle game (a handful of players are on the COVID-19 list), it's probably best to focus on some props.One that stands out to me: Jeff Carter over 2.5 shots (-113). He averaged 2.7 per game following the trade to Pittsburgh a year ago and that was while playing a middle-six role.With Crosby and Malkin out, Carter will center the top line. That'll lead to some extra ice time, and his shot will no doubt be a focal point when the Penguins get on the power play. Regardless of whether he scores, I expect Carer to give Vasilevskiy plenty of work.Todd Cordell is a sports betting writer at theScore. Be sure to follow him on Twitter @ToddCordell.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Columbus Blue Jackets named veteran forward Boone Jenner the seventh captain in franchise history, the team announced Tuesday.Defenseman Zach Werenski and forwards Oliver Bjorkstrand and Gustav Nyquist will serve as alternate captains."We had a lot of discussions as a coaching staff and with management and, while we were in no rush to make a decision regarding the next captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets, it became obvious to all of us that Boone was the right choice," head coach Brad Larsen said."He has tremendous character and a work ethic that has earned the respect of his teammates, and he's been an important part of our leadership group for several years. Zach, Gus, and Oliver also have been part of that group and we are fortunate to have these guys lead our team."Jenner was a second-round pick of the Blue Jackets in 2011 and has spent his entire eight-year career in Columbus. The 28-year-old isn't a household name league-wide, but he's regarded as a quality, versatile two-way forward.Nick Foligno wore the "C" for the previous six seasons.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Montreal Canadiens have agreed to terms with center Nick Suzuki on an eight-year contract extension carrying an average annual value of $7.875 million, the team announced Tuesday.When the new contract kicks in next season, it'll make Suzuki the team's highest-paid skater. Only goaltender Carey Price ($10.5 million) carries a higher AAV.The 22-year-old posted 41 points in 56 games last season. He had a coming-out party in the playoffs, tallying seven goals and nine assists in 22 postseason contests during Montreal's miracle run to the Stanley Cup Final.He posted very strong defensive metrics last season, too. Evolving-Hockey.comHere's how Suzuki projects to age over the duration of the contract:

Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom will begin the 2021-22 season on long-term injured reserve as he continues to recover from an offseason hip injury, the team announced Tuesday.The move means Backstrom will miss at least the first 10 games of the campaign. He's eligible to return on Nov. 6.Washington recalled top prospect Connor McMichael and Beck Malenstyn from the AHL in corresponding moves.With Alex Ovechkin day-to-day due to a lower-body ailment, the Capitals rolled out the following lines at Monday's practice:

Heading into the 2021-22 regular season, theScore's Kayla Douglas, Mike Dickson, Josh Gold-Smith, Brandon Maron, John Matisz, Sean O'Leary, and Josh Wegman make their picks for the division champions, major award winners, and Stanley Cup Final.Atlantic Division Scott Audette / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasLightningDicksonLightningGold-SmithLightningMaronLightningMatiszPanthersO'LearyLightningWegmanMaple LeafsA return to the heavyweight Atlantic Division won't slow the Tampa Bay Lightning's roll. The back-to-back Stanley Cup champions lost the heart of their offensive depth with Yanni Gourde, Barclay Goodrow, and Blake Coleman all moving on, but they still have much of the star power and defensive corps (not to mention the insurmountable Andrei Vasilevskiy) that make them truly elite. This time, they'll have to battle with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers - the latter being their 2020-21 Central Division foes - for the top spot.Metropolitan Division Rich Graessle / Getty Images Sport / GettyEditorPickDouglasIslandersDicksonCapitalsGold-SmithIslandersMaronIslandersMatiszHurricanesO'LearyIslandersWegmanRangersThere isn't a ton of clarity when it comes to the Metropolitan Division. The New York Islanders are always ready to battle for the No. 1 spot, and the aging Washington Capitals can usually be counted on to make some noise, but some wild cards are waiting in the weeds. The Carolina Hurricanes took a bit of a step back after losing Dougie Hamilton and netminder Alex Nedeljkovic, but they're typically able to force their way into the conversation. Meanwhile, many eyes will be on the New York Rangers as a squad that can surprise this year.Central Division Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyEditorPickDouglasAvalancheDicksonAvalancheGold-SmithAvalancheMaronJetsMatiszAvalancheO'LearyAvalancheWegmanAvalancheThe reigning Presidents' Trophy winners look primed to take over the Central Division. The only pushback the Colorado Avalanche may receive for the top seat is from the Winnipeg Jets, who made a ton of progress in repairing their fractured blue line this offseason with the additions of Brenden Dillon and Nate Schmidt. Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg's 2020 Vezina-winning goaltender, finally has some help in front of him after a tumultuous couple of seasons.Pacific Division Michael Martin / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasGolden KnightsDicksonGolden KnightsGold-SmithGolden KnightsMaronGolden KnightsMatiszGolden KnightsO'LearyGolden KnightsWegmanGolden KnightsIt's unanimous: The Vegas Golden Knights are going to absolutely run the table in the Pacific Division. Of course, anything can happen, but Vegas will be able to beat up on a weak trio of California teams all season long.'Rocket' Richard Trophy Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasAuston MatthewsDicksonDavid PastrnakGold-SmithAuston MatthewsMaronDavid PastrnakMatiszAuston MatthewsO'LearyMikko RantanenWegmanAuston MatthewsMatthews barely has the edge from our voters to repeat as the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner. The Toronto superstar put up 41 goals in 52 games during the shortened campaign. He then underwent offseason wrist surgery to fix an issue that plagued him throughout the year, so there's no telling what a completely healthy Matthews can do.Pastrnak, who had 20 goals in 48 contests last season, is also primed to re-enter the conversation after shooting at 11.4% in 2020-21, far below his career average of 14.3%. Rantanen, meanwhile, is a dark-horse pick after exploding for 30 tallies in 52 games last season, just one shy of his career-high 31 goals in 74 contests in 2018-19. If he can keep it up, the league better look out.Art Ross Trophy Andy Devlin / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasConnor McDavidDicksonNathan MacKinnonGold-SmithConnor McDavidMaronConnor McDavidMatiszConnor McDavidO'LearyConnor McDavidWegmanConnor McDavidIt certainly appears McDavid will take home the Art Ross Trophy for the second straight year. He had a monstrous 2020-21 campaign, during which he eclipsed 100 points in just 56 games, and there's really no reason his dominance can't continue in a lacking Pacific Division. However, it wouldn't be wise to count out MacKinnon, who's produced at a 1.35 point-per-game pace the past two seasons.Calder Trophy Vaughn Ridley / Getty Images Sport / GettyEditorPickDouglasMarco RossiDicksonCole CaufieldGold-SmithCole CaufieldMaronMarco RossiMatiszTrevor ZegrasO'LearyTrevor ZegrasWegmanSpencer KnightThe Calder Trophy race is gearing up to be a good one, as three players are tied with two votes each. Minnesota Wild prospect Rossi is the easiest to root for after developing a serious heart condition due to COVID-19. When combining regular-season and playoff games, Caufield has the most NHL experience of the trio with 30 contests under his belt. The Montreal Canadiens youngster clearly learned a thing or two in the playoffs, as he put up 12 points in 20 games.Zegras seems set to thrive with the Anaheim Ducks in the near future. He proved his worth at the 2021 World Juniors by putting up 18 points in seven games to help lift the U.S. to a gold medal. The 20-year-old was recently honored with the Bob Johnson Award for his international dominance. Meanwhile, Knight can rule the crease for a talented Panthers team while learning from veteran netminder Sergei Bobrovsky.Vezina Trophy Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasAndrei VasilevskiyDicksonRobin LehnerGold-SmithAndrei VasilevskiyMaronConnor HellebuyckMatiszConnor HellebuyckO'LearyConnor HellebuyckWegmanAndrei VasilevskiySomehow, Vasilevskiy and Hellebuyck have each won only one Vezina Trophy. The former has been a brick wall en route to the Lightning's two Stanley Cup wins, and the latter continues to put up sparkling numbers while being one of the league's busiest netminders. Lehner also looks primed to step up for the Golden Knights in Marc-Andre Fleury's absence.Norris Trophy Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / GettyEditorPickDouglasCale MakarDicksonVictor HedmanGold-SmithCale MakarMaronAaron EkbladMatiszShea TheodoreO'LearyCale MakarWegmanCale MakarIt's hard to believe Makar is entering just his third full NHL season given the poise he shows. Though the Avalanche star is the most popular pick among our voters, that doesn't mean the field for the Norris Trophy isn't crowded. Hedman is also vying for the honor after already winning once and being named a finalist five years in a row. Theodore and Ekblad, who've never been nominated, may also finally get the recognition and respect they deserve.Hart Trophy Darcy Finley / National Hockey League / GettyEditorPickDouglasArtemi PanarinDicksonNathan MacKinnonGold-SmithConnor McDavidMaronConnor McDavidMatiszConnor McDavidO'LearyConnor McDavidWegmanConnor McDavidMcDavid's trophy case is probably going to get fuller after this season, as our voters predict the best player in the league will be named the Hart Trophy winner in back-to-back years. However, MacKinnon is sick of falling short year after year, and if anyone can get his team over the hump, it's him. Meanwhile, Panarin led the Rangers in points for the past two seasons, and with a new bench boss in Gerard Gallant, he may just be able to take the Big Apple to greater heights.Stanley Cup Final Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / GettyEditorPickDouglasAvalanche over LightningDicksonAvalanche over IslandersGold-SmithAvalanche over LightningMaronGolden Knights over PanthersMatiszAvalanche over LightningO'LearyIslanders over AvalancheWegmanAvalanche over LightningOur voters don't see a three-peat in the Lightning's future. The Avalanche look set to finally get past the second round after four straight seasons of premature exits, but the defensively sound Islanders can give them a run for their money. The Golden Knights have a clear path to the top of the Pacific Division, but it remains to be seen if that'll translate to playoff success. Under head coach Joel Quenneville's direction, the Panthers can also stun the league with their talented roster - after the Canadiens' surprise run to the Stanley Cup Final last year, anything is possible.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

One day before the Seattle Kraken's first-ever NHL regular-season game, they have multiple players on the COVID-19 list.Seattle's head coach Dave Hakstol initially said Joonas Donskoi, Marcus Johansson, Jared McCann, and Jamie Oleksiak had joined Calle Jarnkrok in COVID-19 protocol, according to the Seattle Times' Marisa Ingemi. The team later reinserted Johansson into the roster.The Kraken put Jarnkrok in the protocol on Friday. Adding a player to the list doesn't necessarily mean he's tested positive.Before the preseason, Seattle's general manager Ron Francis said the entire roster was fully vaccinated. Vaccinated players who test positive must get initial confirmation plus two additional tests, and they can rejoin the team if both subsequent tests come back negative.The Kraken also have two other players dealing with injuries. Colin Blackwell is out indefinitely, and Yanni Gourde is day-to-day. The club claimed Alex Barre-Boulet off waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning earlier Monday.Seattle will begin its inaugural NHL campaign with a five-game road trip, beginning Tuesday night against the Vegas Golden Knights. The Kraken will host the Vancouver Canucks in their first home opener on Oct. 23.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Evander Kane is temporarily unlisted as a member of the San Jose Sharks while the NHL investigates him.San Jose considers Kane a non-roster player pending the results of the league's probe, which is looking into two separate matters relating to the winger.A report emerged in late September stating the NHL was looking into Kane's possible violation of its COVID-19 protocols, while the other part of the investigation pertains to his actions toward his wife, Anna. One week later, a subsequent report specified the league was investigating the forward for allegedly using a fake vaccination document.The NHL launched the two-pronged inquiry after clearing Kane of Anna's initial accusations that he bet on hockey and threw games. The Sharks star denied those claims but admitted to having a gambling addiction.Kane, who filed for bankruptcy in January, is under contract with San Jose for the next four seasons. His pact carries a $7-million cap hit, but it's unclear how the ongoing investigation will impact the club in that regard.

Vancouver Canucks forward Brandon Sutter is sidelined for the foreseeable future as he deals with the effects of long-term COVID-19 symptoms, general manager Jim Benning announced Monday."He's experiencing some of the symptoms from COVID," Benning said. "I guess they call it being a long-hauler. He still has some issues that he's working through with that."He's going to be out for a while. He's not going to be back anytime soon."The Canucks had a major COVID-19 outbreak derail their 2020-21 season. Vancouver had to postpone several of its contests, and Sutter was one of 21 players to test positive.The 32-year-old has been with the Canucks for the past six campaigns, registering 12 points in 43 games last season. Sutter signed a one-year, $1.25 million contract to stick with Vancouver this past summer.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Four NHL players were claimed off waivers on Monday, per Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press.PlayerOld TeamNew TeamAlex Barre-Boulet (F)LightningKrakenAdam Brooks (F)Maple LeafsCanadiensPatrick Brown (F)Golden KnightsFlyersAxel Jonsson-Fjallby (F)SabresCapitalsMany expected Barre-Boulet to make the Lightning after the club lost multiple key forwards in the offseason. The undrafted product out of Montmagny, Quebec, has been highly productive in the AHL, racking up 136 points in 144 games over the last three seasons. The 24-year-old has only played 15 NHL contests, but he could get a longer look with the Kraken.The Maple Leafs lose Brooks to the rival Canadiens. The 2016 fourth-round pick has tallied four goals and four assists in 18 career NHL games. He failed to crack Toronto's roster despite the club missing Auston Matthews and Ilya Mikheyev to begin the season.Brown has served as a reliable depth forward for the Golden Knights over the last couple of seasons, skating in more playoff games (14) than regular-season contests (5).Jonsson-Fjallby's stay in Buffalo was short-lived. The Sabres claimed him off waivers from the Capitals on Oct. 4, only for Washington to re-claim him Monday. He's been assigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Seattle Kraken named Mark Giordano their first captain in franchise history on Monday.Seattle selected Giordano from the Calgary Flames in July's expansion draft. The 38-year-old wore the "C" for the Flames over the last eight seasons.Giordano is by far the oldest and most experienced member of the Kraken. Forwards Jordan Eberle and Marcus Johansson, both 31, are the next-oldest players. Giordano leads Seattle with 15 NHL seasons under his belt.The aforementioned duo is tied for second-most on the club with 11 seasons apiece.Giordano is entering the final campaign of a six-year contract he signed with the Flames in August 2015. The pending unrestricted free agent's pact carries a $6.75-million cap hit, according to CapFriendly.The Toronto-born blue-liner spent all 15 of his previous seasons with Flames. He ranks second on Calgary's all-time list with 949 games played, fifth with 366 assists, and eighth with 509 points.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Leading up to the start of the 2021-22 season, theScore is counting down the top 100 players in the game today, as voted on by our NHL editors. Injuries affecting players entering the season have been taken into consideration.100-81 | 80-61 | 60-41 | 40-21 | 20-1Editor's note: After Mitch Marner’s disappearing act in the playoffs, and after what Tom Wilson did to Artemi Panarin, we erroneously left them off our top 100 list. We deeply regret the error, but this is Marner and Panarin's fault. And Wilson's, too, actually.20. Jonathan Huberdeau, Florida Panthers Eliot J. Schechter / National Hockey League / GettyThere's no doubt Huberdeau is a wizard. The Panthers' all-time leading scorer potted 61 points last season to lead Florida for a second consecutive campaign. He was also the team's second-most utilized forward in 2020-21.19. Sebastian Aho, Carolina HurricanesAho can fill the net and make plays better than almost anyone his age. The 24-year-old franchise cornerstone buried 38 goals over 68 games in 2019-20. He followed it up with 24 goals across 56 contests last season, which translates to a 35-goal pace across 82 games.18. Adam Fox, New York RangersA lot of people predicted Fox to have a great sophomore season after an impressive rookie campaign with the Rangers, but not many penciled him in to win the Norris Trophy. Fox possesses an incredible two-way game and can contribute at an elite level on both ends of the ice.17. Alex Ovechkin, Washington CapitalsOvechkin has been a top-10 lock on this list for his entire career, but his all-around impact has begun to diminish. That said, he's still as dangerous as ever in the o-zone, and some poor defensive metrics aren't going to prevent us from rating the greatest goal scorer of his generation among the league's best.16. David Pastrnak, Boston BruinsPastrnak is coming off a bit of a down year by his standards. However, he remains one of the game's most lethal shooters and likely has another Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy coming his way in the future.15. Roman Josi, Nashville Predators John Russell / National Hockey League / GettyThe 2020 Norris Trophy winner didn't match his 0.94 points-per-game average from the 2019-20 season, but he still led the Predators last campaign with 33 points over 48 contests. Josi also bared the brunt of the workload, topping Nashville with over 24 minutes of ice time per game.14. Mikko Rantanen, Colorado AvalancheThe myth that Rantanen is merely a product of Nathan MacKinnon's prowess has long been debunked, but the Finnish winger ascended to new heights in 2021. Rantanen needed only 52 contests to reach the 30-goal plateau (a 47-goal pace over 82 games), and he ranked among the NHL's top five in both goals and points last season.13. Brad Marchand, BruinsMarchand's transformation into one of the league's most elite players has been incredible to watch. Since the beginning of the 2016-17 season, the Bruins star ranks third in the NHL in points (426) behind only Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He's also one of the league's best penalty killers, he drives play at an incredible pace, and he can still get under his opponents' skin with ease.12. Patrick Kane, Chicago BlackhawksAnother year, another top-10 finish in league scoring for Kane. The Blackhawks' veteran star remains one of the NHL's most prolific producers, and it's hard to imagine him ever slowing down.11. Brayden Point, Tampa Bay LightningPoint proved the naysayers wrong this past season, producing a stellar campaign despite not having Nikita Kucherov on his wing. He's also shown in the postseason what a big-game player he is, potting 28 goals over his last 46 playoff contests.10. Aleksander Barkov, Panthers Harry How / Getty Images Sport / GettyBarkov cracks the top 10 on this list after winning the 2021 Selke Trophy as the top defensive forward. The 26-year-old led all Panthers forwards in average ice time last season. He also finished in the top 10 in the NHL in scoring for the first time with 26 goals. Barkov is the definition of a dual-threat.9. Cale Makar, AvalancheMakar was more deserving of the Norris Trophy, but he'll win the award in the future as he's nearly peerless at his position. The gifted Avalanche blue-liner led all qualified defensemen with exactly one point per game over 44 contests in 2021. He would've been the favorite for the Norris had he not missed 12 games due to injury.8. Andrei Vasilevskiy, LightningVasilevskiy is tracking to become one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history. He just led the Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, has been a Vezina Trophy finalist in each of the last four years, and has topped the league in wins for four straight seasons now. He's only 27 years old and should continue to rack up the accolades as he plays behind a stacked Tampa Bay team.7. Victor Hedman, LightningHedman posted some shoddy defensive underlying numbers last season, but his reputation as the league's most dominant defender speaks for itself. The Lightning stalwart has been a Norris Trophy finalist in each of the last five seasons, winning the award once. He's also captured a Conn Smythe, two Stanley Cups, and averaged 0.83 points per game across 346 regular-season contests over that time.6. Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh PenguinsSid is no longer a kid - he's 34 - but he remains one of the game's elite players. There's a fair argument that the No. 6 spot on this list is too low for someone of his ilk. Crosby puts up points, but it's his intangibles and 200-foot game that still make him one of the best.5. Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / GettyDraisaitl is one of the two main reasons the Art Ross and Hart Trophies have rarely traveled outside of Edmonton in recent years. The 25-year-old had the second-most points in the league last season with 84 over 56 games. He was also the NHL's third-most utilized forward, averaging over 22 minutes a game. He's unstoppable.4. Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple LeafsMatthews cemented himself as the NHL's pre-eminent scorer in 2021, capturing the "Rocket" Richard Trophy with 41 goals across 52 games after falling one goal short of the league leaders in 2019-20. Even more impressively, the Leafs sniper paced the league while playing most of last season with a wrist issue.3. Nikita Kucherov, LightningAfter sitting out all of last season due to a hip injury, Kucherov returned for the playoffs and absolutely tore it up with 32 points over 23 games. His 1.36 points-per-game pace across the last three seasons is second to only McDavid, and he's one of the only players in the league who has a legitimate shot at challenging the Oilers superstar for the Art Ross Trophy.2. Nathan MacKinnon, AvalancheThere aren't many hockey fans left who wouldn't consider MacKinnon as the league's second-best player. The Avalanche superstar has been an offensive force for four straight seasons, and it's only a matter of time until he starts adding some hardware to his resume.1. Connor McDavid, OilersIs this really even a debate? McDavid posted an absurd 105 points over 56 games last season. That's 21 more points than the next player and 36 better than someone not on his team. The Oilers captain also made huge strides defensively last season. What will he do for an encore in 2021-22?Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

As one would expect, a bulk of the NHL's most watchable teams are also among the league's best. Though some have had difficulty achieving playoff success, the entertainment value they provide is undeniable.Some clubs are watchable because of their high-octane style of play or their superstars, while others will draw attention because of new acquisitions, or in one obvious case, the novelty of being an expansion franchise.As a reminder, these aren't typical power rankings, nor are they purely based on the squads expected to finish at the top and bottom of the standings. This is all about how appealing they'll be from the viewer's perspective.Here are the 16 teams we expect will be the most compelling. Tap here to see the bottom 16.16. New York IslandersThe Islanders are undoubtedly a very good squad, but head coach Barry Trotz's defensive system doesn't make it easy to watch New York regularly. Mathew Barzal is a threat to make the highlight reel at any moment, but the club's dull but effective approach isn't the most conducive to viewership.15. Dallas StarsThe Stars were in the middle of the NHL pack in terms of goals per game last season, but they ranked third in expected goals for percentage at five-on-five. Tyler Seguin's healthy again, and while Dallas' core is aging, Calder Trophy finalist Jason Robertson is another reason to pay attention to this squad.14. Winnipeg JetsThe Jets have a versatile group of forwards, including underrated sniper Kyle Connor and speed demon Nikolaj Ehlers. Winnipeg was the league's ninth-worst possession team in 2021, but the club should improve in that department thanks to a bolstered blue line.13. Minnesota Wild Norm Hall / National Hockey League / GettyWhat will Kirill Kaprizov do for an encore following his impressive Calder-winning campaign in 2021? The electric winger has proven he can singlehandedly make the Wild a must-watch team, and he should ascend to new heights with two-way wizard Joel Eriksson Ek now centering Minnesota's top line.12. New York RangersArtemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, and Norris Trophy winner Adam Fox lead a pretty fun Rangers side that would be higher on this list if youngsters Alexis Lafreniere and Kaapo Kakko were further along in their development. New York didn't drive possession in 2021 but will be worth viewing more often than not this season.11. Washington CapitalsAlex Ovechkin's mere presence ensures the Capitals will frequently be worth a live look-in, especially when they go on the power play. Ovi, Nicklas Backstrom, John Carlson, and T.J. Oshie are all in their 30s, while Evgeny Kuznetsov will turn 30 in May. So Washington's window may be closing, but this squad is still reasonably entertaining for now.10. Seattle KrakenThe Kraken made some splashes in their first-ever offseason, and their branding has been a major success. While the team itself is a bit underwhelming, the expansion factor and curiosity about the Seattle market will keep many tuned into Kraken broadcasts throughout the club’s inaugural campaign.9. Chicago Blackhawks Brian Babineau / National Hockey League / GettyThe Blackhawks will be far more watchable than they were last season after adding Marc-Andre Fleury and Seth Jones over the summer to complement Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat. Much like 2021, Chicago still might not be a playoff team, but there's plenty of star power here, and it'll be worth seeing if the club's bold moves pay off.8. Carolina HurricanesRemoving proven puck-mover Dougie Hamilton and Calder finalist Alex Nedeljkovic from the equation made the Hurricanes worse, but they still project to be among the NHL's best possession teams while boasting game-breakers Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov.7. Florida PanthersAleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau have long been a dynamic duo, and Aaron Ekblad is healthy again after having his 2021 campaign cut short. The Panthers ranked fourth in the league in expected goals for percentage at five-on-five last season. Florida should again be among the most exciting teams, especially if goaltending phenom Spencer Knight gets extended playing time.6. Boston BruinsDavid Pastrnak, Patrice Bergeron, and Brad Marchand make up one of the absolute best lines in the NHL, and the Bruins’ 10th-ranked power play will be even better with the rejuvenated Taylor Hall contributing over a full campaign. Boston overhauled its goaltending, but the seventh-ranked possession club in 2021 should again be one of the league’s most appealing.5. Toronto Maple Leafs Mark Blinch / National Hockey League / GettyThe Maple Leafs will be worth watching as they've been in recent years due to their skilled (and expensive) top four forwards led by "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner Auston Matthews. But it'll also be compelling to see if Toronto - the NHL's second-best team in terms of expected goals for percentage last season - can finally silence the critics and win a playoff series with this group.4. Vegas Golden KnightsFleury's gone, but the ever-potent Golden Knights are still largely intact. Mark Stone is fun to watch wherever he is on the ice, while defensemen Shea Theodore and Alex Pietrangelo are adept at creating offense. Vegas remains deep from top to bottom, and the club that tied for the lead in league points last campaign should again be a can't-miss team in 2021-22.3. Edmonton OilersConnor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl make the Oilers worth watching no matter how the squad itself is faring. The NHL's two most recent Hart Trophy winners are the definition of appointment viewing, frequently scoring highlight-reel goals while racking up huge numbers. And as usual in the era of this supremely gifted duo, Edmonton will also be worth viewing to see if the club can avoid wasting its talents.2. Tampa Bay LightningRemember, this isn't about which team is best. The Lightning are loaded with exciting players like Nikita Kucherov, Victor Hedman, Brayden Point, and Steven Stamkos, and the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions would be the most watchable NHL squad if not for their thrilling Central Division counterparts.1. Colorado Avalanche Michael Martin / National Hockey League / GettyNathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Gabriel Landeskog make up the best line in hockey, and Cale Makar has a convincing case as the league's most dominant defenseman despite Fox's claim to the Norris. Forget about Colorado's playoff failures - the Avalanche were the NHL's No. 1 possession team in 2021, and there's no reason to believe they won't be the most tantalizing club yet again.(Analytics source: Natural Stat Trick)Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Chicago Blackhawks are bringing back a familiar face, signing defenseman Erik Gustafsson to a one-year, $800,000 contract on Monday.Gustafsson spent parts of four seasons with the Blackhawks until they traded him as a rental to the Calgary Flames at the 2020 deadline. He put together a career-best 17-goal, 60-point campaign in 2018-19 while quarterbacking Chicago's top power-play unit.The 29-year-old hasn't been able to uncover that same offensive spark since then. He recorded 29 points in 66 games in 2019-20 before tallying just one goal and 11 assists in 29 contests last season while playing limited minutes with the Philadelphia Flyers and Montreal Canadiens.Gustafsson suited up in 16 games during Montreal's run to the Stanley Cup Final this past spring, registering a goal and two assists while averaging 10 minutes per contest.He spent this preseason on a professional tryout with the New York Islanders but didn't make the team.The Blackhawks were in need of depth on the left side of their blue line after offseason acquisition Caleb Jones suffered a left wrist strain, which is expected to sideline him for six weeks.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have rewarded head coach Jon Cooper with a three-year contract extension through the 2024-25 season, the team announced Monday."Unequivocally, Coop is the best person for the job," general manager Julien BriseBois said. "He is a great leader, spokesperson, and ambassador for our organization. We are lucky to have him as our head coach, and I very much look forward to our continued partnership."Cooper is the longest-tenured head coach in the league, as he's been at the helm since the 2012-13 campaign. He's led the team to two division titles, three Stanley Cup Final appearances, and two championships."It has been a tremendous honor to be the head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning for the past eight-plus seasons and I'm looking forward to having the opportunity to build on what we have here," Cooper said. "My family and I love the organization and being a part of the Tampa Bay community, it is our home."Prior to his promotion to the Lightning, Cooper served as the head coach of the organization's AHL squad, the Syracuse Crunch (and previously the Norfolk Admirals). He guided the Admirals to a Calder Cup title in 2011-12.Cooper's reputation in league circles is sterling, as the Prince George, British Columbia, native was named the head coach of Canada's men's team for the 2022 Olympics.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Leading up to the start of the 2021-22 season, theScore is counting down the top 100 players in the game today, as voted on by our NHL editors. Injuries affecting players entering the season have been taken into consideration. We'll reveal 20 players every day until the top 20 is unveiled Oct. 11.100-81 | 80-61 | 60-41 | 40-21 | 20-140. Carey Price, Montreal Canadiens Florence Labelle / National Hockey League / GettyThere's uncertainty surrounding Price's status after he voluntarily took part in the player assistance program just before the start of the campaign, but the 34-year-old will always be a force to be reckoned with. Price carried the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup Final last year following a lackluster regular season that saw him author a .901 save percentage in the North Division.39. Alex Pietrangelo, Vegas Golden KnightsPietrangelo's production fell last campaign, but he did miss 14 games due to injury. Despite that, the Golden Knights' veteran defenseman ranked 13th in the NHL in average ice time while posting favorable underlying numbers, proving he remains among the league's most reliable rearguards.38. Anze Kopitar, Los Angeles KingsKopitar continues to quietly truck along as one of the NHL's best players, hitting the 1,000 point mark last season. The Kings star has shown no signs of slowing down at the age of 34, and with ultra-defensive Philip Danault's arrival in L.A., Kopitar could find himself with even more offensive opportunities this year.37. Mika Zibanejad, New York RangersZibanejad can be a streaky producer, but when he's on, he's nearly unstoppable. The Rangers' top pivot ranks fifth among all centers with 95 goals since the 2018-19 campaign - trailing four players universally considered the best at the position and that you'll see later on this list.36. Miro Heiskanen, Dallas StarsHeiskanen is one of the most naturally gifted skaters in the entire league - his stride is truly effortless. The Stars blue-liner has already mastered the defensive side of the puck, but don't be surprised if he reaches new offensive heights this season.35. Marc-Andre Fleury, Chicago Blackhawks Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images Sport / GettyFleury unexpectedly finds himself on a new team in 2021-22 after Vegas shipped him out. But no matter where he is, the 36-year-old is still the reigning Vezina Trophy winner and will certainly help the Blackhawks take the next step.34. Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh PenguinsMalkin used to be much higher on this list, but injuries have limited him significantly of late, and his offensive output for the Penguins has declined even when he's been healthy. The 35-year-old will miss at least the first two months of this campaign following knee surgery, but he's still worthy of the top 40 for now.33. Charlie McAvoy, Boston BruinsWith Zdeno Chara's and Torey Krug's departures last offseason, all the pressure was on McAvoy to step into their shoes and become the Bruins' top defenseman. The 23-year-old absolutely lived up to the hype, turning in the best campaign of his career and proving he has what it takes to be the team's No. 1 for years to come.32. Sean Couturier, Philadelphia FlyersYear in and year out, Couturier is one of the league's most dominant two-way centers. The Flyers were wise to ink him to an eight-year extension this past offseason.31. Dougie Hamilton, New Jersey DevilsHamilton was worth the dough. Over the last two campaigns, he ranks fifth among NHL defensemen in points per game - all while posting exceptionally advanced metrics at both ends of the ice.30. Elias Pettersson, Vancouver Canucks Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / GettyNow that Pettersson has re-signed with the Canucks, he's going to come back with a vengeance after being limited to just 26 contests last season. The 22-year-old is the face of the franchise and is an absolute menace when healthy.29. Shea Theodore, Golden KnightsTheodore doesn't play as much as Pietrangelo, but he's better than his fellow Golden Knights defenseman. Theodore tied for seventh among rearguards in points last campaign while authoring excellent underlying numbers and averaging a career-high 22:33 of ice time.28. Mark Scheifele, Winnipeg JetsCentering the Jets' top line alongside a pair of fantastic wingers, Scheifele has firmly established himself as one of the best pivots in the league. Scheifele ranks 12th in the NHL with 423 points since 2015 as he consistently plays over a point-per-game pace.27. Kirill Kaprizov, Minnesota WildWhat does Kaprizov have in store for his encore season? The Wild's offensive catalyst dazzled in his rookie campaign, greatly exceeding long-awaited expectations and rapidly establishing himself as one of the league's most dynamic talents.26. Mathew Barzal, New York IslandersBarzal's career-high 85 points came during his rookie season with the Islanders - before head coach Barry Trotz arrived in Long Island. While Trotz's system is fantastic for team success, it's clearly shackled Barzal's offensive ceiling. On a squad with better linemates that encourages offense, the slick center could be a 100-point player.25. Jack Eichel, Buffalo Sabres Patrick McDermott / National Hockey League / GettyEichel's future with the Sabres is a question mark, as is his physical condition for this campaign. What's not a mystery is what the 24-year-old can accomplish when he is healthy. Before 2021, Eichel was a top offensive talent and led Buffalo in scoring for four straight seasons.24. Patrice Bergeron, BruinsMost NHL players start declining when they turn 30, but Bergeron remarkably remains one of the league's absolute best two-way players at the age of 36. Boston's ever-dependable pivot still more than capably centers one of the best lines in hockey while effectively patrolling both ends of the ice.23. Connor Hellebuyck, JetsIt's no secret that Hellebuyck is one of the NHL's best goalies, but what's most impressive is that he's done so well while playing behind a disastrous blue line in Winnipeg the past few years. The Jets brought in Brenden Dillon and Nate Schmidt to bolster their defense this year, which is scary for anybody trying to score on Hellebuyck.22. Ryan O'Reilly, St. Louis BluesO'Reilly is a prototypical franchise cornerstone that somehow seems to elevate his play with each passing year. The 30-year-old set a new career best with 0.96 points per game last campaign while maintaining dominant even-strength possession numbers. There's nothing the Blues captain doesn't bring to the table.21. Mark Stone, Golden KnightsStone is, without a doubt, the best defensive winger in the game. He's finished in the top five in Selke Trophy voting each of the last three seasons, with only centers ranking ahead of him. What Stone lacks in speed, he makes up for with intelligence, will, and outstanding stick handling. He also produced at a career-best 90-point pace (over 82 games) this past campaign.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Leading up to the start of the 2021-22 season, theScore is counting down the top 100 players in the game today, as voted on by our NHL editors. Injuries affecting players entering the season have been taken into consideration. We'll reveal 20 players every day until the top 20 is unveiled Oct. 11.100-81 | 80-61 | 60-41 | 40-21 | 20-180. Sam Reinhart, Florida Panthers Joel Auerbach / Getty Images Sport / GettyThere hasn't been a lot to be excited about in Buffalo in recent years, but Reinhart always showed promise. The 25-year-old led the Sabres in scoring last season with 40 points and, in 2021-22, is primed to thrive with the Panthers.79. Semyon Varlamov, New York IslandersVarlamov's numbers are buoyed by his team's defensive prowess, but the underlying figures show he remains one of the NHL's best goaltenders. The Islanders netminder ranked second in goals saved above average and 10th in goals saved above expected at five-on-five last season.78. Blake Wheeler, Winnipeg JetsWheeler's underlying numbers last season weren't great, but he still managed an impressive 46 points in 50 games. As long as the 35-year-old is firmly entrenched in the Jets' lethal top-six group, he should continue to contribute a ton on offense.77. Ryan Pulock, IslandersPulock is far from prolific offensively, but all 32 NHL general managers would love him on their team. He's the rock of the Islanders' stingy defensive corps and routinely shuts down opponents' top lines.76. Claude Giroux, Philadelphia FlyersGiroux is aging like fine wine, and the move to the wing in recent years has allowed him to focus on his greatest strength - producing offense. His knack for winning faceoffs (career 55.5%) hasn't gone to waste, either, as he still takes draws regularly.75. Philipp Grubauer, Seattle Kraken Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyGrubauer is looking to take his new team to incredible heights the way Marc-Andre Fleury did for Vegas. The 29-year-old was a Vezina Trophy finalist last season after posting a .922 save percentage with the defensively sound Avalanche, but his underlying numbers weren't as strong as his fellow nominees.74. John Klingberg, Dallas StarsKlingberg is often overlooked in the discussion about the game's best defensemen, and he's occasionally even an afterthought on his own team because of Miro Heiskanen's emergence. But he's still a force, notching what would've been 56 points over an 82-game pace last season.73. MacKenzie Weegar, PanthersWeegar had his true coming out party with the Panthers last year, showing he has what it takes to be one of the NHL's top-tier defensemen. He ranked 12th among blue-liners with 36 points, 14th in hits (118), and 41st in blocks (83).72. Robin Lehner, Vegas Golden KnightsLehner has posted solid numbers for three consecutive seasons but the upcoming campaign will be key in determining his status among the league's elite goaltenders. He's taking the reins as the Golden Knights' No. 1 netminder. The pressure is on after the club traded away Fleury, the Vezina Trophy winner.71. Morgan Rielly, Toronto Maple LeafsRielly isn't the most sound defender, but he uses his elite skating to drive offense at a high rate. He's just two years removed from a top-five Norris Trophy finish.70. Jaccob Slavin, Carolina Hurricanes Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / GettySlavin has led the Hurricanes' defense corps in ice time in each of the past five seasons. Despite his heavy workload, the 27-year-old is one of the most disciplined players in the league. He won the 2021 Lady Byng Trophy after taking just one penalty all season.69. Aaron Ekblad, PanthersEkblad was having a career year before a serious injury ended his 2021 season. He was leading all NHL defensemen in goals at the time and is capable of replicating that level of play now that he's fully healthy.68. Brock Boeser, Vancouver CanucksBoeser continues to be one of the league's more underrated players. He's now strung together four consecutive great seasons with the Canucks to kick off his NHL career with 210 points in 253 games. Playing alongside Elias Pettersson certainly helps, but Boeser's shot remains one of the best in the league.67. Devon Toews, Colorado AvalancheThe Avalanche couldn't have been a better fit for Toews. The 27-year-old forms a dynamic top pair with Cale Makar and is fresh off setting career highs in goals, points, and average time on ice.66. Kris Letang, Pittsburgh PenguinsLetang is one of the most perennially underrated defensemen of his era. He's an absolute workhorse, logging at least 24 minutes per game for the last decade while earning seven top-10 Norris Trophy finishes in that time. He's getting older, but he remains a true No. 1 blue-liner.65. Nicklas Backstrom, Washington Capitals Patrick McDermott / National Hockey League / GettyBackstrom is just as ageless as Alex Ovechkin is. The 33-year-old is essentially a lock to hit at least 70 points in an 82-game season and is set to surpass the 1,000-point mark in his 15th season with the Capitals.64. Joe Pavelski, StarsSpeaking of ageless, Pavelski belongs in that category as well. The veteran forward racked up 25 goals and 26 assists while playing all 56 games for the Stars in 2021 before turning 37 in July.63. Seth Jones, Chicago BlackhawksJones had a pretty terrible season last year but has otherwise been a legitimate Norris Trophy contender. The 27-year-old ditched Columbus and landed with the Blackhawks over the summer, so the change of scenery should help him find the spark in his game.62. Juuse Saros, Nashville PredatorsIt'll be strange to watch the Predators without Pekka Rinne in the fold, but Nashville's in good hands between the pipes thanks to Saros. The Finnish netminder essentially dragged his club to the postseason this past summer with a sterling .927 save percentage across 36 appearances.61. Johnny Gaudreau, Calgary FlamesGaudreau takes a lot of heat in the Calgary market, but all he does is put up points - including 49 in 56 games last season. The 2011 fourth-round pick is as skilled of a playmaker as they come.(Analytics source: Evolving Hockey)Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Leading up to the start of the 2021-22 season, theScore is counting down the top 100 players in the game today, as voted on by our NHL editors. Injuries affecting players entering the season have been taken into consideration. We'll reveal 20 players every day until the top 20 is unveiled Oct. 11.100-81 | 80-61 | 60-41 | 40-21 | 20-160. Zach Werenski, Columbus Blue Jackets Jamie Sabau / National Hockey League / GettyWerenski has been an offensive threat ever since making his debut - he's tied for third in goals among NHL defensemen with 65, dating back to 2016. However, he'll be without Seth Jones in 2021-22 and will need to step up as the Blue Jackets' new No. 1.59. Jeff Petry, Montreal CanadiensPetry produced a career year offensively last campaign, ranking among the league leaders with 42 points in 55 games. The Canadiens blue-liner has been one of the NHL's most underrated players for years now, in addition to collecting at least 40 points in four consecutive seasons.58. Jake Guentzel, Pittsburgh PenguinsGuentzel often doesn't get the respect he deserves, but that's part of the price you pay when you play alongside Sidney Crosby. The left-winger has played over a point-per-game pace over the last two campaigns with the Penguins and can score goals just as easily as he can dish assists.57. Brady Tkachuk, Ottawa SenatorsThe younger Tkachuk brother is captain material for the up-and-coming Senators, contributing points, physicality, and intangibles each and every night. The young forward's only going to get more effective as he matures, and it's often hard to remember he's only 22.56. Darnell Nurse, Edmonton OilersNurse took major offensive strides last season, recording 16 goals and 20 assists in 56 contests. The 26-year-old could still stand to improve defensively, but as a strong skater standing at 6-foot-4, 221 pounds, he has all the physical capabilities to do so.55. Thomas Chabot, Senators Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyOver the past two campaigns, it's been Chabot and Drew Doughty leading all NHL defensemen in average ice time. The 24-year-old Sens star has a lot on his plate and has quietly risen to the challenge.54. Matthew Tkachuk, Calgary FlamesThe elder Tkachuk underwhelmed to an extent in 2021, but so did the Flames as a whole. Calgary's versatile pest continues to be one of the few players in the league that provide scoring and the ability to regularly get under opponents' skin.53. John Carlson, Washington CapitalsCarlson was bound to regress a bit after the best season of his career in 2019-20, but he's still among the NHL's best when it comes to producing offense. Since 2017, the Capitals blue-liner ranks third at his position in goals (53) and first in points (257).52. Nikolaj Ehlers, Winnipeg JetsEhlers enjoyed his breakout campaign with the Jets in 2021, managing 46 points in 47 games. At top speed, he's one of the fastest skaters in the league, and his deceptive skillset makes him a nightmare for opposing defenders.51. William Nylander, Toronto Maple LeafsNylander silenced just about all of his critics this past spring, carrying the Leafs' offense in the playoffs as Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner struggled while tallying five goals and three assists in seven contests.50. Jakob Chychrun, Arizona Coyotes Norm Hall / National Hockey League / GettyChychrun stunned the desert in the 2020-21 season. A strong skater with a big-time shot, the 23-year-old defenseman trailed only Phil Kessel with 41 points in 56 games while leading all Coyotes skaters in ice time. Chychrun's only going to get scarier over time.49. Taylor Hall, Boston BruinsWhat a difference a change of scenery made for Hall, the 2017-18 MVP who struggled mightily in his brief foray with the moribund Buffalo Sabres. The Bruins' skill undoubtedly helped Hall return to form, but he was also incredibly unlucky with the Sabres, and he remains one of the NHL's best left-wingers.48. Gabriel Landeskog, Colorado AvalancheLandeskog's decision to re-sign with the Avalanche this summer was a wise one. Passing up the option to play alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen would have been foolish, as the trio combine to make one of the league's best lines.47. Max Pacioretty, Vegas Golden KnightsPacioretty remains an elite play driver and lethal finisher as he approaches 33 years of age. The forward's presence on the Golden Knights' top line is a key reason why they're one of the NHL's best.46. John Tavares, Maple LeafsTavares has begun to show modest signs of decline at age 31, but he's still undoubtedly a top-line caliber center. He produced at a near point-per-game rate last campaign despite a slow start.45. Kyle Connor, Jets Darcy Finley / National Hockey League / GettyA perennial scoring threat, Connor has been among Winnipeg's top three in goals for the past four seasons. With 50 points in 56 matchups last campaign, the 24-year-old is one of the quietest stars in the league.44. Andrei Svechnikov, Carolina HurricanesSvechnikov has dropped plenty of jaws with his numerous lacrosse-style goals, but he's far more than a one-trick pony. The 21-year-old Hurricanes star is a consistent playmaker whose skill evokes that of a much older forward.43. Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay LightningStamkos is still one of the NHL's top stars as long as he can stay healthy. Since the beginning of the 2016-17 season, his 1.12 points per game ranks 10th in the league. The fact that Stamkos is arguably the Lightning's fifth-best player is simply unfair.42. Alex DeBrincat, Chicago BlackhawksAll DeBrincat does is score. The winger's one of the lesser-known names on a Blackhawks team laden with veteran standouts, but he's the future of the franchise and has 50-goal potential.41. Quinn Hughes, Vancouver CanucksHughes still needs to refine his defensive game, but he's certainly one of the most exciting and dynamic blue-liners in the NHL. Oh, and he's just 21 years old.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A slew of NHL players were placed on waivers Sunday as teams around the league make their final cuts ahead of the regular season.Edmonton Oilers forward Kyle Turris and Vancouver Canucks defenseman Travis Hamonic were among the more prominent names to be made available.Here's the full list.Anaheim Ducks: Jacob Larsson, Sam CarrickBuffalo Sabres: Axel Jonsson-FjallbyCarolina Hurricanes: Eric Gelinas, Max Lajoie, Josh Leivo, Stefan Noesen, C.J. SmithColumbus Blue Jackets: Gabriel Carlsson, Mikko Lehtonen, Kevin StenlundChicago Blackhawks: Collin Delia, Malcolm SubbanColorado Avalanche: Jacob MacDonaldDallas Stars: Alexander PetrovicDetroit Red Wings: Riley Barber, Taro HiroseEdmonton Oilers: William Lagesson, Kyle TurrisFlorida Panthers: Lucas Carlsson, Christopher GibsonLos Angeles Kings: Austin Strand, Austin WagnerNew Jersey Devils: Frederik GauthierNashville Predators: Connor Ingram, Michael McCarronOttawa Senators: Andrew AgozzinoPhiladelphia Flyers: Nick SeelerTampa Bay Lightning: Alex Barre-Boulet, Fredrik Claesson, Andrej SustrToronto Maple Leafs: Adam BrooksVancouver Canucks: Justin Bailey, Madison Bowey, Phillip Di Giuseppe, Travis HamonicVegas Golden Knights: Sven Baertschi, Patrick Brown, Gage QuinneyWashington Capitals: Zach Fucale, Garrett PilonWinnipeg Jets: Nelson Nogier, Dominic ToninatoTeams have until 12 p.m. ET on Monday to make a claim.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Vancouver Canucks have traded defenseman Olli Juolevi to the Florida Panthers for forward Juho Lammikko and blue-liner Noah Juulsen.Juolevi produced two goals and one assist while averaging 13:13 of ice time in 23 games as a rookie for the Canucks last season. Vancouver drafted him fifth overall in 2016.The 23-year-old played a single playoff game for the Canucks in 2019-20 before making his regular-season debut the following campaign. Juolevi spent 2018-19 and 2019-20 with Vancouver's then-AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets.Lammikko registered four goals and one assist over 44 contests with the Panthers last campaign. He notched six assists across 40 games with Florida as a rookie in 2018-19 before spending parts of the next two campaigns overseas.Juulsen played four games with the Panthers in 2021. Florida claimed him off waivers from the Montreal Canadiens in January. Juulsen missed a considerable amount of time due to a vision-related issue while with the Canadiens, who selected him 26th overall in 2015.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

There are plenty of reasons to be excited about the upcoming NHL season, from the superstars who continue to anchor their franchises to big names in new places and an expansion team in the Pacific Northwest.But many of the league's clubs will be less than enthralling in 2021-22 for one reason or another. Some simply won't be competitive, while others lack game-changing players or confine solid rosters to dull playing styles.The following list isn't a typical power ranking or sorting of the league's best and worst teams, but merely a look at which squads should be the most entertaining this season.With that in mind, here are theScore's 16 least watchable NHL clubs in 2021-22. Check back Monday for the season's 16 most watchable teams.32. Buffalo SabresThe Sabres were awful even with Jack Eichel and Taylor Hall in the lineup last season. Hall is long gone, Eichel's future with Buffalo is in severe doubt, and the team let talented goalie Linus Ullmark walk over the summer. Not even Rasmus Dahlin and Dylan Cozens can make the Sabres watchable now.31. Arizona CoyotesMost of the players on an already limited list of reasons to watch the Coyotes exited amid Arizona's offseason fire sale. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Conor Garland, and Michael Bunting were among those either shipped out or let go, and the Coyotes' biggest remaining draw - Phil Kessel - is reportedly not in their plans going forward. Let the teardown continue.30. Detroit Red WingsThe Red Wings will probably remain one of the NHL's worst teams in 2021-22. They should be slightly more interesting with Calder Trophy finalist Alex Nedeljkovic and 2020 fourth overall pick Lucas Raymond in the fold, but losing Jakub Vrana for four months doesn't help Detroit's watchability.29. Columbus Blue Jackets John Russell / National Hockey League / GettyThere's virtually no good reason to watch the Blue Jackets on a regular basis anymore. Columbus traded the supremely skilled Seth Jones, leaving Patrik Laine as its highest-potential player. But the Finnish forward struggled after the Blue Jackets acquired him last season, and it remains to be seen if he can rediscover his form on a team largely devoid of talent.28. San Jose SharksThe Sharks aren't nearly as compelling as they used to be. The NHL is still investigating Evander Kane on multiple fronts, and some of his teammates reportedly don't want him back. That drama could make watching San Jose games somewhat tempting, but Tomas Hertl's murky future and underwhelming supporting cast leave little cause for excitement.27. Anaheim DucksThe Ducks clearly won't be competitive this season, which is hardly surprising for a rebuilding team. Still, with Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale leading Anaheim's youth movement, this club could warrant some viewing once its top prospects get comfortable in the NHL.26. Los Angeles KingsThe additions of Phillip Danault, Viktor Arvidsson, and Alexander Edler should improve a Kings squad already on the rise. But the loss of prized blue-chip prospect Quinton Byfield to a broken ankle means Los Angeles won't be as watchable as expected - at least until later in the season.25. Nashville Predators Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyRoman Josi and Filip Forsberg are still worth watching, but that's about it as far as the Predators are concerned. Juuse Saros is underrated, and Eeli Tolvanen might finally break out in 2021-22, but Nashville is far from appointment viewing.24. Ottawa SenatorsAssuming Brady Tkachuk re-signs relatively soon, the Senators should once again be more watchable than their record suggests. Tim Stutzle, Josh Norris, Drake Batherson, and Shane Pinto give Ottawa a talented young core anchored by the ever-dependable Thomas Chabot. The Senators should be relatively fun to watch even if they underwhelm in the standings.23. New Jersey DevilsDougie Hamilton makes the Devils unexpectedly relevant after they surprisingly signed him in free agency. His possession-driving skills should make his new team easier on the eyes, while Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier will likely take strides. Still, New Jersey probably won't be consistently compelling just yet.22. Calgary FlamesJohnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk are usually worth tuning in for, especially considering the latter's ability to get under opponents' skin. But the Flames have been less entertaining since Darryl Sutter returned as head coach. Calgary's offseason additions mostly suit the bench boss' grinding style, and Blake Coleman doesn't move the entertainment needle much either.21. Montreal Canadiens Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyIt's not clear when Carey Price will return from the NHL's player assistance program, Shea Weber's career may be over due to injury, and offseason signing Mike Hoffman is also hurt. Calder Trophy favorite Cole Caufield will likely dazzle, but this Canadiens lineup is otherwise severely depleted compared to the one that reached the 2021 Stanley Cup Final.20. St. Louis BluesThe Blues have been consistently competitive in recent years, but they don't play the most exciting brand of hockey. St. Louis was seventh-worst in the NHL in expected goals for percentage at five-on-five last season, with a middling offense and a defense that ranked in the bottom half of the league in all situations. Pavel Buchnevich and Brandon Saad are solid additions, but this team doesn't scream entertainment.19. Philadelphia FlyersThe Flyers may be better this season after a disappointing effort in 2020-21. But while Philadelphia remains deep up front, it lacks an elite game-breaker despite Sean Couturier's talents. Goaltender Carter Hart should bounce back behind a revamped blue line, but the Flyers don't project as one of the NHL's most watchable squads.18. Vancouver CanucksElias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes are must-watch players for the Canucks, and Brock Boeser is highly skilled in his own right. Vancouver should make gains this season with Conor Garland and Oliver Ekman-Larsson in the fold, and the team will be worth watching to see if its offseason overhaul pays dividends.17. Pittsburgh Penguins Joe Sargent / National Hockey League / GettyWith Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin injured to start the campaign and Jake Guentzel and Zach Aston-Reese recovering from COVID-19, watching the Penguins won't be as enjoyable as usual. Even when Crosby and Malkin return, the aging duo isn't guaranteed to be as explosive as it once was - and the same holds true for the team itself.(Analytics source: Natural Stat Trick)Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New York Rangers inked star forward Mika Zibanejad to an eight-year contract extension, the club announced Sunday.The deal carries an average annual value of $8.5 million, reports Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.Zibanejad has one season left on his current pact at a cap hit of $5.35 million, according to CapFriendly.The 28-year-old led the Rangers and tied for 13th in the NHL with 24 goals while adding 26 assists and playing all 56 games last season. He also led New York forwards and ranked 19th in the league among that positional group in average ice time at 20:06.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Vegas Golden Knights president of hockey operations George McPhee claims agent Allan Walsh attempted to prevent the team from trading Walsh's client, Marc-Andre Fleury.After the Golden Knights dealt the reigning Vezina Trophy winner to the Chicago Blackhawks in July, it was reported Fleury found out on Twitter. Walsh tweeted at the time that Fleury hadn't heard from the Golden Knights and the netminder needed time to "seriously evaluate his hockey future."Vegas didn't deny Saturday that Fleury found out on social media but stated the club talked to his camp in the lead-up to the swap. However, the Golden Knights stopped communicating when Walsh began seeking to "sabotage the trade" by informing other clubs the goaltender planned to retire, McPhee told the Las Vegas Review-Journal's David Schoen.McPhee praised Vegas general manager Kelly McCrimmon for how he navigated the ordeal and insisted the team isn't fabricating what happened."Kelly couldn't have handled it better," McPhee said. "(Walsh and Fleury) knew they were being traded. If you're doing what's right for the organization and you're honest with the players, you've got nothing to apologize for. Ever. And again, we're telling the truth."Fleury reportedly didn't initially warm to the idea of joining the Blackhawks because he was reluctant to move his family to an unfamiliar city. Four days after the trade, he confirmed his intent to suit up for them.The three-time Stanley Cup champion was arguably the face of the Golden Knights franchise after leading Vegas to the Cup Final in its inaugural 2017-18 season. But his playing time decreased after the Golden Knights acquired Robin Lehner in February 2020.Walsh infamously tweeted an image of Fleury playing the puck with a sword through his back during the 2019-20 postseason. Walsh was apparently implying Golden Knights head coach Peter DeBoer stabbed Fleury in the back by turning more to Lehner during those playoffs.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Alex Ovechkin doesn't appear to be seriously hurt after his early exit from the Washington Capitals' final 2021-22 preseason game Friday.The superstar forward is day-to-day with a lower-body injury, the club announced Sunday, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.Ovechkin departed midway through the first period of Washington's 5-3 win and didn't return after awkwardly hitting Philadelphia Flyers forward Travis Konecny. The Capitals said at the time that Ovechkin would be re-evaluated.The 36-year-old signed a five-year contract extension with Washington in July. Earlier Friday, the Russian Olympic Committee named him to its team for next year's Beijing Olympics.The Capitals will open their regular-season schedule when they host the New York Rangers on Wednesday night.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Max Domi will play far sooner than the Columbus Blue Jackets expected when he suits up for the team's preseason finale.Domi is in the lineup against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday night and will take part in his first 2021-22 exhibition game after undergoing surgery to repair a labral tear in his right shoulder in June.

James Neal made a strong impression during his professional tryout with the St. Louis Blues, as he and the club agreed to a one-year deal worth $750,000 on Saturday.The 34-year-old winger potted a team-high four goals in as many games with the Blues during the preseason. He scored five goals in 29 games with the Edmonton Oilers last season.Neal scored 21 goals or more in each of his first 10 NHL seasons - notching a career high of 40 in 2011-12 - but he's declined steeply in recent years. The Oilers bought out the final two seasons of his previous contract in July.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Behold, your comprehensive list of the statuses of all 32 NHL head coaches, broken down into tiers, as we inch toward the 2021-22 campaign.NewcomersHere, we have all first-year coaches and ones who took over at some point last season. These guys are somewhat an exception to the list and presumably safe as can be, barring something truly unforeseen.Andre Tourigny, Coyotes: It will be interesting to see how Tourigny, a highly successful skipper at the junior level, manages in his first year in the bigs. Considering the roster he's inherited, his hands are already full.Brad Larsen, Blue Jackets: How will Columbus look in the post-Tortorella era? It's unlikely the Jackets reach the playoffs, but if Larsen can unlock Patrik Laine again, his first season will probably be viewed as a success.Dominique Ducharme, Canadiens: He only has 38 regular-season games under his belt, but a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in his first half-year at the helm made a pretty strong first impression. Bruce Bennett / Getty Images Sport / GettyGerard Gallant, Rangers: Many believe New York hit a home run by bringing in Gallant. His job in Year 1 is to push the up-and-coming Rangers into the playoff mix.Don Granato, Sabres: Buffalo looked better under Granato after he took control of last season's overall dismal showing, but there's still a long way to go for the coach to prove he's the guy to navigate a rebuild.Darryl Sutter, Flames: It's a make-or-break year for the Flames, and the club's decision to put Sutter in charge will be front and center. Of everyone in this category, he's under the most pressure.Dave Hakstol, Kraken: Hakstol is back in a head coaching role and has a blank canvas to make his mark on the NHL's newest franchise. Can he make Seattle competitive off the bat?Not going anywhereHere are the best of the best; mortal locks to stay put unless they decide to quit on their own terms.John Cooper, Lightning: The NHL's longest-tenured coach is sitting on back-to-back Stanley Cups and a chance to lead Canada to a gold medal at the Olympics. He's as likely to be discarded as Nikita Kucherov.Barry Trotz, Islanders: Trotz has the Isles on the cusp of a championship, and there's no coach better suited to his team's identity.Comfortable via strong reputationThe next group includes coaches not quite in the top tier, but ones who have a long leash to work with based on successful tenures to this point.Bruce Cassidy, Bruins: Since taking over in Boston, Cassidy is 194-82-41 with a trip to the Stanley Cup Final and a Jack Adams Award. The Bruins have been a force under his guidance and should be again this season.Rod Brind'Amour, Hurricanes: If it weren't for Carolina's unpredictable ownership, Brind'Amour would be in the above tier. After all, he did just win the Jack Adams and sign a contract extension, but never say never when it comes to the Canes. Joe Sargent / National Hockey League / GettyMike Sullivan, Penguins: Pittsburgh starts its season behind the eight ball with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin shelved, but there's no question the Pens trust Sullivan to keep them afloat until they're at full strength.Paul Maurice, Jets: Maurice is fourth on the all-time games coached list and sixth in wins, so his reputation speaks for itself. Now that Winnipeg has reinforced its blue line, he has to be feeling pretty comfortable about his job.Joel Quenneville, Panthers: Coach Q has three years left on his contract and is in charge of transforming Florida from a competitive team to a championship-caliber one. There are few better options out there for that task.Probably safeHere we have a mix of tenured and relatively new coaches. This group should feel safe right now, but pressure could begin to mount if things go south.Jared Bednar, Avalanche: Colorado has mile-high expectations this season, and Bednar's track record suggests he's the man for the job. However, another first- or second-round exit next spring could put him on the chopping block.Sheldon Keefe, Maple Leafs: Given all that's occurred since he took over from Mike Babcock, it's easy to forget that Keefe's entering his first full campaign as an NHL head coach. His recent two-year extension indicates he's in good standing, but no one in the Leafs organization is protected from the intense pressure.Peter DeBoer, Golden Knights: Vegas is one of the NHL's powerhouses, and DeBoer has done nothing to show he's on thin ice. Then again, neither did Gallant in 2020. Elsa / Getty Images Sport / GettyPeter Laviolette, Capitals: Laviolette is only one year into his Capitals tenure and is one of the league's highest-paid coaches at $4.9 million per year. He must feel secure, but Washington's aging core doesn't have too many kicks at the can left. A wasted season wouldn't be taken lightly.D.J. Smith, Senators: Ottawa clearly trusts Smith to lead the club forward, as he inked a two-year extension this offseason. But belief and progress are two different things, even though Smith does have some time on his side.Rick Bowness, Stars: Dallas' 2020-21 campaign was a write-off due to injuries, essentially giving Bowness a pass for the club finishing outside the playoffs. He led the Stars to the Cup Final in the bubble and will need to bring them back into contention in the final year of his contract.Todd McLellan, Kings: Los Angeles has acquired the pieces to begin its ascent back up the standings. McLellan will likely have a couple chances to return the club to the playoffs.Make-or-break yearThis group has a ton riding on the upcoming campaign. A playoff berth will go a long way for each of these coaches.Travis Green, Canucks: Green's roster has been revamped, and he's recently been rewarded with a new contract. Still, missing the postseason could lead to significant changes in Vancouver.Jeremy Colliton, Blackhawks: Chicago added a Vezina winner and a star defenseman, and it gets its captain back this season. Poor results after such positive change could leave the writing on the wall for Colliton in his first NHL gig.Dean Evason, Wild: Evason has been successful since taking the reins in Minnesota but finds himself in the final year of his contract. Up against a full schedule and a top-heavy Central Division, he has his work cut out to prove he's the guy to lead the Wild to sustained success. Andy Devlin / National Hockey League / GettyDave Tippett, Oilers: Edmonton is poised to showcase its deepest offense of the Connor McDavid era in a weak Pacific Division, but question marks on the blue line and in goal make Tippett's situation a bit tenuous. Wasting another year of No. 97's prime won't be tolerated.Craig Berube, Blues: He's in the final year of his contract and his club has fallen flat in back-to-back postseasons since winning the Stanley Cup. Results are a must for Berube this year as he aims for a new deal.Alain Vigneault, Flyers: Vigneault has three years remaining on his contract but will need a bounce-back season to feel safe in Philly. Robin Lehner's allegations against the veteran coach's treatment of players didn't provide the best start to a crucial year.Lindy Ruff, Devils: New Jersey needs to take a step forward this season. General manager Tom Fitzgerald ticked all the boxes in free agency, and it's up to Ruff to pull the strings and make it work.In the pressure cookerThe next group is on the hot seat. None of these coaches have a particularly enviable roster at their disposal, but as they say, you can't fire players.Dallas Eakins, Ducks: No one expects anything from Anaheim this season. This year could be a wash as Eakins finishes his contract before giving way to a new voice to lead the rebuild.Jeff Blashill, Red Wings: Blashill is also on an expiring deal. Detroit has been uninspiring for years, and he'll have to make a noticeable impact this season to be re-upped in Hockeytown.John Hynes, Predators: Nashville is seemingly staring a rebuild in the face. Underperforming, overpaid stars and a lack of depth have altered the Preds' outlook in recent years, and if this is the year it all unravels, Hynes will likely be the scapegoat.Bob Boughner, Sharks: San Jose still possesses a decent amount of quality players but wasn't a playoff threat in the last two seasons. If Boughner can't rally his club to outperform its California rivals or Seattle, he'll probably be on his way out.(Contract details source: CapFriendly)Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Gabriel Landeskog stood straight-faced, the room anxiously awaiting his remarks."You know what," he said softly into a microphone, pausing for dramatic effect. "I'm not leavin'. I'm not leavin'." He continued, yelling now. "I'm not f-----' leaving!"The audience, which included Colorado Avalanche teammates Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Mikko Rantanen, and others, erupted in celebration."The show goes on! This is my home! They're going to need a f-----' wreckin' ball to take me out of here!"

Leading up to the start of the 2021-22 season, theScore is counting down the top-100 players in the game today, as voted on by our NHL editors. Injuries affecting players entering the season have been taken into consideration. We'll reveal 20 players every day until the top 20 is unveiled Oct. 11.100-81 | 80-61 | 60-41 | 40-21 | 20-1100. Zach Hyman, Edmonton Oilers Codie McLachlan / Getty Images Sport / GettyThe former unsung engine of the Leafs' top six, Hyman is bringing his much-needed skill set to the Oilers. With the winger on the ice at five-on-five last season, the Leafs controlled 52% of shot attempts and 63% of the high-danger chances.99. Jack Hughes, New Jersey DevilsHughes should take another step forward during his third NHL campaign after the center's average ice time increased by over three minutes to 19:04 in 2021. The 20-year-old clearly possesses the ability to center the Devils' top line, and now he just needs to catch up to the league's speed and physicality.98. Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red WingsLarkin produced an extremely underwhelming campaign last year, but he remains the focal point of the Red Wings' offense as the club continues its rebuild. He's the team's captain and could have some of the best linemates of his career in 2021-22, so expect Larkin to bounce back in a big way.97. Jared Spurgeon, Minnesota WildSpurgeon doesn't get the attention he deserves as one of the league's best defensive defensemen. He's as consistent as they come, and the blue-liner needs to be recognized across the hockey world for his unique skill set.96. Jake Muzzin, Toronto Maple LeafsIt's hard to find anyone who disapproves of Muzzin's game. He's a physical and nasty defenseman, which pleases the old-school crowd. But he's also an analytical darling thanks to his superb underlying metrics.95. Rasmus Dahlin, Buffalo Sabres Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyA key component of the Sabres' blue line, Dahlin must prove he’s worth every penny of his new three-year, $18-million deal. He received more ice time down the stretch under head coach Don Granato last season, so the stage is set for the talented defenseman to show he's up to the challenge.94. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Washington CapitalsThe Kuznetsov who surpassed the 80-point plateau in 2017-18 has come and gone, with the Capitals forward's per-game production declining in each of the three seasons since then. But the veteran has still proven he can make an impact when healthy.93. Jason Robertson, Dallas StarsIf it wasn't for Kirill Kaprizov's fantastic season, Robertson would have been a shoo-in for the Calder Trophy last year. The Stars rookie dazzled while scoring 45 points over 51 games. Now can he avoid the dreaded sophomore slump and keep it rolling in Dallas?92. J.T. Miller, Vancouver CanucksMiller endured a tough season defensively in 2020-21, but he's still a strong offensive contributor and a key piece of the Canucks' identity. He's registered 118 points over 122 games since joining the club in 2019.91. Igor Shesterkin, New York RangersShesterkin has appeared in just 47 career games, but the netminder has demonstrated he belongs on this list with a .921 save percentage over that span. Taking over as the heir apparent to Henrik Lundqvist in a market like New York can't be easy, either.90. Bo Horvat, Canucks Rich Lam / Getty Images Sport / GettyIf there's anyone who can lead the Canucks back to the playoffs, why not captain Horvat? He finished fourth on the team with 39 points over 56 games, even amid Vancouver's struggles last season.89. Samuel Girard, Colorado AvalancheCale Makar rightfully gets most of the attention among the Avalanche's blue-liners, but Girard is impressive in his own right. The 23-year-old posted elite underlying numbers in 2021, and he's steadily improved offensively over his four NHL seasons.88. Torey Krug, St. Louis BluesKrug quietly produced a solid​​​​​​ first campaign with the Blues, managing 32 points in 51 games. He comes exactly as advertised, and is a good puck-moving defenseman who's reliable at both ends.87. David Perron, St. Louis BluesPerron quietly goes about his business with the Blues while finding the scoresheet an awful lot. He ranks 11th among all left-wingers in points since rejoining the club three seasons ago.86. Tyler Seguin, StarsSeguin was limited to just three games last season due to injury, but he's still one of the league's most dangerous shooters when healthy.85. Nick Suzuki, Montreal Canadiens Mark Blinch / National Hockey League / GettySuzuki led the Canadiens this past postseason with 16 points over 22 games. The 22-year-old is lethal and ready to handle big moments as Montreal's No. 1 center.84. Tyler Toffoli, CanadiensToffoli unexpectedly ranked seventh in the NHL with 28 goals over 52 games in 2021, doing nearly 30% of that damage against the Canucks. Still, he was on pace for 37 goals over 82 contests, and while the 29-year-old will likely regress against stiffer competition, the winger is an established scorer.83. Ryan Ellis, Philadelphia FlyersThe Flyers desperately needed blue-line help, so they made a great decision to snatch Ellis in a trade. The 30-year-old plays both sides of the puck extremely well, and he can help out on the penalty kill and power play. He'll be a fantastic complementary piece to Ivan Provorov in Philly.82. Filip Forsberg, Nashville PredatorsForsberg missed 17 games for the Predators last season and still finished one back of the club lead in goals. He's a supremely talented player who could put up monster numbers with some adequate linemates.81. Adam Pelech, New York IslandersPelech's name being included on this list will surprise casual fans. He isn't flashy, but the rearguard is an absolute rock on defense. Don't be surprised if he makes Team Canada's Olympic squad.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Alex Ovechkin didn't return to the Washington Capitals' final preseason game Friday after sustaining a lower-body injury during the first period.The Capitals star appeared to be in pain after awkwardly hitting Philadelphia Flyers forward Travis Konecny midway through the opening frame. Ovechkin was slow to get up but limped down the tunnel on his own while appearing to favor his left leg.

The Ontario government has announced its decision to loosen capacity limits in certain indoor and outdoor settings where proof of vaccination is required, allowing professional sports teams in the province to hold 100% capacity at their home games this season.The policy kicks in on Oct. 9 at 12:01 a.m.These new measures are certainly good news for fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Senators, Ottawa Redblacks, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, to name a few.Before the change, indoor sports venues were only able to operate at 50% capacity up to a limit of 10,000, while the province set the capacity for outdoor sporting events at 75% with a maximum of 30,000 fans."As we continue to see more Ontarians roll up their sleeves with over 22 million doses administered, our government is cautiously lifting capacity limits in select settings where we know proof of vaccination requirements are providing an added layer of protection to Ontarians," Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott said in a statement.The Leafs will open their season on Oct. 13 when they host the Montreal Canadiens, while the Raptors will kick things off at the Scotiabank Arena against the Washington Wizards on Oct. 20."Throughout the process of re-opening our venues to fans ... health and safety has been our shared top priority and we are overjoyed to see this day arrive when we are able to welcome a full venue to cheer on the Maple Leafs and Raptors," Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment president and CEO Michael Friisdahl wrote in a statement. "We look forward to a safe and enjoyable season."The Senators' campaign begins on Oct. 14 at the Canadian Tire Centre versus the Maple Leafs.The Vancouver Canucks are now the only NHL team in Canada not welcoming a full house. British Columbia is currently allowing 50% capacity at Canucks games.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

When it comes to season-long wagers, less is more. We want to pick our spots before the season to take advantage of any numbers we disagree with through single-game betting early on and put that money back into play.No one knows which teams will suffer a rash of injuries or bad luck, so finding clubs that have some leeway in their number is the name of the game. You want to bet on teams perceived to be great or horrendous being closer to the league average.Here are four totals I'd consider betting before puck drop on Oct. 12.Lightning under 108We start with the champs. It's assumed the Lightning will be a top-two team this season, with Nikita Kucherov returning and Steven Stamkos presumably healthy. However, I have to bet the under with a 6% edge, according to my numbers. Things probably won't go perfectly for a team that took a hit to its depth this offseason.Jets under 92.5The last time we had an 82-game campaign scheduled, it was cut short before the Jets had an opportunity to miss the playoffs despite a Vezina Trophy season from Connor Hellebuyck. Last campaign, Winnipeg pulled some voodoo with four close wins over the Oilers in a sweep where Edmonton averaged 2.82 expected goals to the Jets' 1.98. The Oilers created 15 even-strength high-danger chances per game to the Jets' 9.75.That's been the story of the Jets for years now, though. They give up a ton of quality chances, and Hellebuyck stops them at an unusually high rate (87.33% while at five-on-five). At the other end, Winnipeg scores at an exceptionally high rate (15.1%) while creating a below-average number of even-strength high-danger chances.This is bad news for Winnipeg from a predictiveness standpoint and why we might have seen their decisive loss to Montreal in the second round of the playoffs. With 92.5 right around the number the Jets will need to qualify for the postseason, I'll take the under here.Canucks over 88.5Things couldn't have gone worse in Vancouver last year. Injury misfortune (Elias Pettersson played only 26 games), the painful drama of a lengthy COVID-19 pause, and self-inflicted wounds like starting Braden Holtby 21 times were among the issues that filled the Canucks' 2020-21 season.Now Thatcher Demko (2.85 GAA, .915 SV%) will get most of the workload, and additions like Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Conor Garland, Jason Dickinson, and maybe Vasily Podkolzin should provide better depth. Meanwhile, there are a couple of additions by subtraction as well, including Nate Schmidt, whose one season in Vancouver didn't go well.There's positive regression available here for a Canucks team that isn't projected to make the playoffs at this number, and they're in a division with questions from top to bottom.Predators over 85.5I've written about the run Juuse Saros went on to end last season, but that's without mentioning the injury issues the Predators had to their defense. While that was rough, it allowed them to build depth organically - guys had to play more minutes than they were ready for. Now, players like Alexandre Carrier and Dante Fabbro can slot in more comfortably, which is key since quality defensive play has been Nashville's calling card for as long as the team's existed.You could argue that a division with Colorado, St. Louis, and Winnipeg is daunting. However, the Predators just made the playoffs after facing Tampa Bay, Florida, and Carolina almost half the time, so I'm not worried that the squad won't be able to do what they do - pleasantly surprise everyone. I've got a 9% edge on this number to the over.Matt Russell is a betting writer for theScore. If there’s a bad beat to be had, Matt will find it. Find him on Twitter @mrussauthentic.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

To prepare for the 2021-22 NHL season, theScore is rolling out all the fantasy hockey advice you need to dominate your draft and win your league. Make sure to check back for updates right up until the regular season begins on Oct. 12.2021-22 Rankings

The following players may not be fantasy relevant during the 2021-22 season, but they could become incredibly valuable in keeper leagues down the road.Most of these phenoms will need to be designated as not active (NA), so be sure to check your league's settings before drafting any of them.Lucas Raymond, LW, Red Wings Codie McLachlan / Getty Images Sport / GettyRaymond is tearing it up this preseason, recording six points in three games thus far. Still, there's no guarantee he'll make the Red Wings' opening night roster considering he's just 19 years old and general manager Steve Yzerman often prefers to "overripen" his prospects.It's also possible that Raymond will make the team, play nine games, and then get sent down in order for his entry-level contract to slide.Whenever he does make the NHL on a full-time basis, Raymond could become a fantasy star. The 2020 fourth overall pick is loaded with talent and put up 18 points in 34 games in the Swedish league last season. Plus, there will be a top-six role waiting for him given Detroit's lack of high-end forward depth.Connor McMichael, C, Capitals Codie McLachlan / Getty Images Sport / GettyMcMichael looks like a draft-day steal. The 25th overall pick in 2019 racked up 14 goals and 13 assists in 33 games with the AHL's Hershey Bears a year ago and helped Canada capture gold at the world juniors with an eight-point performance in seven contests.The 20-year-old is competing for a spot on the Capitals' opening-night roster. If he makes the team out of camp, his stay may only last until Nicklas Backstrom is ready to return - unless, of course, McMichael forces Washington's hand and earns the right to remain.If McMichael makes the team and hangs on after Backstrom's return, he could be shifted to the wing, which means he'll gain greater positional eligibility in fantasy. If he impresses, the Capitals could also become even more willing to trade Evgeny Kuznetsov at some point. Washington has four stellar wingers in its top six, so even center on the club's second line should be considered luxurious fantasy real estate.Nick Robertson, LW, Maple Leafs Mark Blinch / National Hockey League / GettyRobertson has already been optioned to the AHL - which is a good thing. It makes him NA eligible, and he'll have the opportunity to develop his game while playing top-line minutes in the minors.When Robertson does arrive in the NHL on a full-time basis - whether it's later this season or in 2022-23 - he'll have ample opportunity for a top-six job with the Maple Leafs alongside some elite talent.The players currently jockeying for position alongside the Auston Matthews-Mitch Marner and John Tavares-William Nylander duos are predominantly cheap fliers who all have warts in their games: Nick Ritchie, Michael Bunting, Ondrej Kase, Alexander Kerfoot, and Ilya Mikheyev.Toronto will be up against the cap again in 2022-23, so the club may need someone on an entry-level contract - like Robertson - to fill a top-six spot.Robertson has shown promise at various levels. He led the OHL with 55 goals in 46 games in 2019-20 and posted an admirable 16 points in 21 AHL games last year.Jake Oettinger, G, Stars Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / GettyOettinger was on this exact list a year ago, but he warrants a repeat appearance.The 22-year-old got into 29 games with the Stars last season, posting a .911 save percentage and a 2.36 goals-against average. He even outperformed veteran starter Anton Khudobin.However, Dallas' depth in goal likely means Oettinger will start the season in the AHL - giving him NA eligibility - since he can be sent down without waivers. Khudobin remains under contract, Ben Bishop is working his way back from a knee injury, and the club inked veteran Braden Holtby to a one-year, $2-million contract in the offseason.Fantasy managers may have to be patient, but Oettinger remains the Stars' goalie of the future. The organization used a 2017 first-round pick on the 6-foot-5 netminder, and he's already shown he can handle the NHL game.Although Khudobin and Bishop are both under contract for next year, they're both in their mid-30s, so Oettinger could easily force his way into a job. At the very least, he's the team's No. 1 goalie by 2023-24. And the club's defensive core should still be rock solid by then.Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, G, Sabres Steve Babineau / National Hockey League / GettyLuukkonen is also a returnee on this list. His path to playing time is much clearer than Oettinger's, although the situation isn't as promising.The Sabres will begin the season with the uninspiring tandem of Craig Anderson and Dustin Tokarski in goal. Both netminders are only under contract for one season.Luukkonen, 22, held his own during four NHL appearances last year, posting a .906 save percentage behind a tire fire of a team. He didn't perform all that well during his other stints, though: He recorded an .888 save percentage in 14 AHL games and a .908 save percentage in 13 appearances in the Finnish league.However, he still has plenty of potential. With another year of seasoning, he could be ready for full-time NHL duty by 2022-23 - or, if he shines in the minors, perhaps even earlier.Josh Wegman has been theScore's resident fantasy hockey expert since 2015. Find him on Twitter @JoshWegman_.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Florida Panthers agreed to an eight-year contract extension with captain Aleksander Barkov.It carries an average annual value of $10 million, and the Panthers are paying more than $70 million of the total in signing bonuses, according to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.Barkov won the Selke Trophy as the NHL's top defensive forward last season.Over 50 games in 2021, the 26-year-old tied for ninth in the league with 26 goals and tied for 13th with 58 points. He ranked ninth in the NHL among forwards in average ice time, logging 20:56 per contest.Barkov also posted stellar underlying numbers, authoring a 59.68 goals for percentage, a 60.86 expected goals for percentage, and a 60.16 scoring chances for percentage at five-on-five.The Finnish center has one season left on his current contract, which carries a $5.9-million cap hit, according to CapFriendly. He signed that six-year pact with Florida in January 2016.Barkov has spent his entire eight-year career with the Panthers, who drafted him second overall in 2013.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Hart Trophy is dominated by forwards, with a center or winger claiming it 17 of the last 18 years.Since the hardware consistently goes to high-scoring forwards on playoff teams, we can narrow down our player pool while looking for value. Let's get to our best bets.PlayerOdds to winConnor McDavid+250Nathan MacKinnon+650Auston Matthews+850Nikita Kucherov+1500Artemi Panarin+1900David Pastrnak+2000Sebastian Aho+2000Andrei Vasilevskiy+2100Brayden Point+2200Mikko Rantanen+2500Mitch Marner+2700Brad Marchand+3000Mathew Barzal+3000Aleksander Barkov+3200Patrick Kane+3200Mark Stone+3300Kirill Kaprizov+3400Alexander Ovechkin+4200Jonathan Huberdeau+4200Max Pacioretty+4200Anze Kopitar+4500Cale Makar+4500Elias Pettersson+4500John Tavares+4500Kyle Connor+4500Marc-Andre Fleury+4500Mika Zibanejad+4500Quinn Hughes+4500Semyon Varlamov+4500Sidney Crosby+5000Note: Listed only those 45:1 or less with the exception being Sidney Crosby (+5000), who's referenced in this article.Nathan MacKinnon (+600)To win the Hart, you have to pile up the points for a powerhouse team or an underdog that sneaks into the playoffs on the back of its brightest star. MacKinnon definitely fits the former.The Colorado Avalanche won more games than any other team over the last two years, and it was MacKinnon leading the charge. He produced at an eye-popping 110-point pace in 2019-20 and a 111-point pace this past season.Though those outputs didn't earn him an MVP, he was firmly in the mix. He finished second to Leon Draisaitl in 2019-20 and third in 2020-21, so it's not as if he's going unnoticed.If MacKinnon can sustain this level of production and also lead his team to another Presidents' Trophy, he has a strong chance of claiming his first Hart.Nikita Kucherov (+1500)I strongly considered Auston Matthews (+850) here - he's averaged 59 goals per 82 games over the last two years - but we're betting numbers rather than players, and more value lies with Kucherov.Kucherov is one of the most dynamic talents in the league; he recorded 100 points, 128 points, and produced at a 103-point pace in the last three seasons, respectively.Then, after missing an entire regular season, Kucherov jumped into the playoffs for the Tampa Bay Lightning and didn't skip a beat. He accumulated 32 points in 23 games, which equates to 114 points over a full season. And, again, this was without any game reps to get up to speed. He was thrown into the fire and dominated.Call me crazy, but I think a consistent 100-plus point producer on a team that's won consecutive Stanley Cups has better than a ~6% chance of winning the Hart.Sidney Crosby (+5000)Crosby is a long shot, obviously, but these odds are too extreme. Yes, I realize he's past his peak and banged up right now. But I still see plenty of value here.He finished fourth in Hart voting last year, and that was while averaging 1.12 points per game, which equates to 92 over a full year. That's impressive, sure, but not extraordinary.Crosby is expected to miss only a week to start the season. For safety purposes, we can assume he'll miss two weeks. That's only five or six games, which wouldn't hold him back from contending for the award.I have little doubt Crosby can match last season's output on a per game basis. He's still very much elite.And he'll get a lot of praise if he can do that because of injury issues in Pittsburgh. The season hasn't even started and the Penguins have already lost star center Evgeni Malkin for at least the first two months.That means, once again, the weight of the world will rest on Crosby's shoulders. If he can continue to excel offensively, while also garnering praise for his defensive game (perhaps more than deserved), he's going to get attention from voters.A strong showing - at age 34 - from the longtime face of the league gives him better than a 2% chance of adding to his trophy collection.Todd Cordell is a sports betting writer at theScore. Be sure to follow him on Twitter @ToddCordell.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price will be away from the team while voluntarily taking part in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, the league announced Thursday.Price's wife, Angela, posted the following message on Instagram.

Filip Forsberg might be the only one in the Nashville Predators organization not sweating his looming contract negotiations."I have a full year," Forsberg said, according to The Athletic's Adam Vingan. "I feel like you have to play your contract out."Forsberg is entering the final season of a six-year, $36-million deal. With the Swedish scoring threat not in any rush to sign on the dotted line, his agent, J.P. Barry, reportedly told The Athletic that talks regarding a new contract haven't begun with the Predators."The only thing I can worry about is playing as good as I possibly can and help the team win," Forsberg said. "At the end of the day, that's going to put me in the best spot for any negotiations."The 27-year-old has recorded 385 points across 497 games as a Predator, ranking second among all Nashville skaters since joining the league during the 2012-13 season.The Predators are potentially staring down a complex offseason following the 2021-22 campaign, as Forsberg and Mattias Ekholm are both set to become unrestricted free agents.Ekholm has discussed an extension with the Predators all offseason, TSN's Pierre LeBrun said Thursday on "Insider Trading." However, the 31-year-old defenseman and his agent will reportedly shelve negotiations if he isn't signed by the start of the season.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Calgary Flames forward Blake Coleman has been suspended one preseason game and one regular-season contest for boarding Winnipeg Jets forward Jansen Harkins, the NHL's Department of Player Safety announced Thursday.Coleman will also forfeit $24,500 in salary.The incident occurred in the second period of Wednesday's exhibition game in Winnipeg. Coleman received a minor penalty for boarding on the play, while Harkins left the game for concussion protocol but managed to return.Coleman will miss Calgary's final preseason contest Friday, as well as his official debut as a Flame in the team's season opener on Oct. 16 against the Edmonton Oilers. However, he'll be allowed to suit up for Calgary's home opener against the Anaheim Ducks on Oct. 18.This is the first time Coleman has received supplemental discipline in his NHL career. The 29-year-old signed a six-year deal with the Flames this offseason.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Connor McDavid thinks Calgary Flames defenseman Chris Tanev made a dangerous play during Monday's preseason edition of the Battle of Alberta.Tanev doesn't agree."Anyone who has watched me play knows I'm a pretty honest player," Tanev said Thursday, according to Sportsnet's Eric Francis. "I take maybe three or four minors a year. I don't think I'm going out there trying to hurt people. I'm trying to play the puck. I hit the puck with my stick. He's trying to jump over me as well ... it's unfortunate."The controversy in question occurred late in the third period when Tanev attempted to stop the Edmonton Oilers superstar as he drove to the net on a partial breakaway. Tanev's stick got caught in McDavid's legs, causing the forward to collide with Calgary netminder Jacob Markstrom.

Veteran goalie Curtis McElhinney is hanging up his pads after 13 seasons in the NHL, the Tampa Bay Lightning announced Thursday.McElhinney spent the bulk of his career as a reliable backup netminder, collecting 94 wins and 12 shutouts in 197 starts while posting a .907 save percentage and 2.83 goals-against average.The 38-year-old journeyman played for eight different teams in his career: the Calgary Flames, Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, Arizona Coyotes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, and lastly, the Lightning.McElhinney joined Tampa Bay at the right time, closing out his career with two Stanley Cup rings while backing up Andrei Vasilevskiy.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Jose Sharks claimed forward Jonah Gadjovich off waivers from the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.Gadjovich, 22, potted 15 goals in 19 games with the AHL's Utica Comets last season. He's played in one career NHL game and racked up 17 penalty minutes.The Canucks selected Gadjovich in the second round of the 2017 NHL Draft.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Goalies | Defensemen | ForwardsDespite having two of the best players on the planet, the Edmonton Oilers have failed to build a true contender over the last several years. Connor McDavid is set to begin his seventh NHL season and has just one playoff series win to his name.After several significant offseason moves, it's starting to look like a make-or-break year. In this series, we'll examine the club's goalies, blue line, and forward group.We finish things up with the forwards.2020-21 statsPlayerGPGAPConnor McDavid563372105Leon Draisaitl56315384Ryan Nugent-Hopkins52161935Zach Hyman*43151833Jesse Puljujarvi55151025Kailer Yamamoto5281321Warren Foegele*53101020Brendan Perlini**219716Derek Ryan*4321113Colton Sceviour*465510Tyler Benson**36102636Devin Shore38549Zack Kassian27235Kyle Turris27235Ryan McLeod10011*Did not play for Oilers last season

The Atlantic Division's been won by either the Tampa Bay Lightning or Boston Bruins three times in a row.Will the streak extend to four, or is there value backing a new winner? Let's find out.Team Odds to winTampa Bay Lightning+180Toronto Maple Leafs+220Boston Bruins+300Florida Panthers+350Montreal Canadiens+4000Detroit Red Wings+15000Ottawa Senators+15000Buffalo Sabres+20000The favoritesThe Lightning (+180) find themselves justifiably favored in the league's most top-heavy division despite losing an entire line (Blake Coleman, Yanni Gourde, and Barclay Goodrow) from their Stanley Cup-winning team. Tampa Bay finished fifth in wins last season without the team's best player, Nikita Kucherov. A healthy Kucherov drastically improves the Lightning's ceiling, and astute additions like Corey Perry and P.E. Bellemare will help make up for some of the lost depth.I know they're a bit of a laughing stock following another playoff disappointment, but the Maple Leafs (+220) will be in the mix for the division title. Their roster is littered with elite forwards, while Ondrej Kase (if healthy), Michael Bunting, and Nick Ritchie should provide quality secondary scoring.Defensively, the Leafs are a lot better than they get credit for. In the shortened 2021 season, they ranked seventh in five-on-five goals against per 60 minutes and eighth in expected goals against per 60 while playing in a high-flying division with some of the game's brightest offensive stars. Jack Campbell might not be as good as he looked a year ago, but he should be able to provide competent goaltending in tandem with Petr Mrazek.Boston (+300) sure seems like a good value. The losses of David Krejci and Tuukka Rask will hurt, no doubt, but the team still has the pieces to win a ton of hockey games. The Bruins possess hockey's best two-way line and a high-end second line with Taylor Hall in the mix. Combine that with extremely stout team defense and a solid 1-2 punch in Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman, and Boston figures to be a threat once again.I like the direction Florida (+350) is heading, but the hype is a little out of control. Unlike the other teams expected to contend for the Atlantic Division crown, the Panthers have a glaring weakness: goaltending. Sergei Bobrovsky ranks 49th among 54 eligible netminders in GSAx since joining Florida. He's being paid to steal games, but in reality, he's been losing them for the Panthers.Yes, Florida has a potential star in the making with Spencer Knight. But he's not going to play 60 games, regardless of how good he looks. We're probably looking at something of a 50/50 split as a best-case scenario, which leaves plenty of time for Bobrovsky to drop points the Panthers otherwise deserve. They're a good bet to make the dance, but winning the division seems like a stretch.The restIt feels strange to see such long odds for Montreal (+4000), considering the Habs just made it to the Stanley Cup Final. I'm in agreement, though. I don't see this team even sniffing a division title. Montreal's very shallow at center, Jeff Petry is the only rearguard I'd consider a top-three defenseman, and Carey Price won't be available to start the season.The Canadiens try to drag their opponents through the mud rather than get out of it themselves. That helped them steal some playoff games, but I don't see them having much success doing so on a nightly basis against so many high-powered teams. Forget a division title - the Habs may be in tough to make it back to the playoffs.Detroit (+15000), Ottawa (+15000), and Buffalo (+20000) are all in the midst of long, ugly rebuilds and are unlikely to challenge for anything other than last place.Best bet: Bruins (+300)There's a lot to like about this Bruins team. Boston's top six is remarkably strong at both ends of the ice. Defensively, the Bruins are as good as it gets; only the Colorado Avalanche allowed fewer expected goals last season. In goal, they're in good shape with Ullmark, Swayman, and, potentially down the road, Rask. There's value here with an implied 25% chance of them winning the division.Todd Cordell is a sports betting writer at theScore. Be sure to follow him on Twitter @ToddCordell.Copyright © 2021 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.