As NHL teams are eliminated from Stanley Cup contention, theScore NHL freelance writer Katie Brown looks back at the highs and lows of their seasons, along with the biggest questions ahead of 2018-19. The 26th edition focuses on the Pittsburgh Penguins.The GoodJake Guentzel. The sensational forward picked up right where he left off last year by leading the league with 21 points through two rounds. The line of Guentzel, Sidney Crosby, and Patric Hornqvist accounted for the majority of the Penguins’ postseason offense. Guentzel started the regular season slowly but reached career highs in goals (22), assists (26), and points (48) in his second NHL campaign.Phil Kessel. Love him or hate him, Kessel was one of Pittsburgh’s best players during the regular season, playing every game for the eighth straight year, and scoring 92 points and leading the NHL with 42 power-play points. Since his trade from Toronto in 2015, he’s been a reliable offensive force and can play pretty much anywhere Mike Sullivan puts him.Patric Hornqvist. He’s the guy you hate to play against but would want on your team in a heartbeat. The Penguins re-signed the noted goalie pest to a reasonable five-year, $26.5-million deal in late February that might end up looking like a real bargain when this year’s crop of free agents hits the market. Hornqvist posted the second-highest goal total of his career (and highest since 2009-10) in the regular season and was third on the Penguins in postseason points with 11 as part of the tremendously effective first line.The BadNo depth scoring. Outside of the top line, which carried much of the weight during this postseason, the Penguins got considerably less offense from their depth than in previous years - just 12 goals from players not named Guentzel, Crosby, or Hornqvist.Shaky goaltending. Matt Murray didn’t have the best playoffs, like a lot of other Penguins players, but goaltending was arguably a factor in their second-round exit. His playoffs weren’t terrible, just average; he might have been good enough to help them win, but not to cover the Penguins’ other deficiencies. Murray’s combined save percentage over the past two Stanley Cup runs was .935. This year it was .914, second-worst among players remaining in the playoffs.Malkin and Kessel underperformed. Though he had a tremendous regular season, Kessel - battling undisclosed injuries - scored just once in the postseason. Evgeni Malkin was sidelined for two games against Washington and didn’t look like the same player when he came back. He scored one power-play goal in the series.The QuestionsWill Kessel be traded? Rumors are swirling that the relationship between the Penguins and Kessel has soured and that Jim Rutherford could try to move him this summer. Kessel will be 31 at the start of next term and has four more years left on a deal that pays him $8 million. His value is high right now, and Rutherford might decide to take advantage of that, although he could just as easily decide to keep Kessel around considering his value to the team.What does the goalie tandem look like? The Penguins settled into a nice rhythm with Casey DeSmith as Murray’s backup and it looks like that could stick next year. Where does that leave Tristan Jarry? Continuing to play in the AHL at this point probably holds little benefit for him, and since Murray isn’t going anywhere as the starter and Jarry seems better suited to regular starts, Rutherford could get a nice return for the young goaltender this summer.Do the Penguins hang on to Carl Hagelin? Hagelin will be in the last year of a contract that pays him $4 million a year at the start of the 2018-19 season. He had a strong end to his campaign with 25 points in 39 games, so his value is high. With long-term deals to players like Guentzel in the near future and a host of players coming up from the minors, Rutherford could easily find Hagelin a new home.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Get ready for the Stanley Cup Final with theScore's comprehensive preview package.How to watchGameDateTime (ET)HomeTV1Monday May 288 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC2Wednesday May 308 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBCSN3Saturday June 28 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBCSN4Monday June 48 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC5*Thursday June 78 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC6*Sunday June 108 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC7*Wednesday June 138 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBCAnalysis

The Acadie-Bathurst Titan defeated the host Regina Pats 3-0 on Sunday to win the 100th edition of the Memorial Cup, their first-ever title.The Titan got goals from Adam Howell and Samuel Asselin before Ethan Crossman sealed the deal with an empty-netter. Goaltender Evan Fitzpatrick made 28 saves in the shutout effort.Acadie-Bathurst finished second in the QMJHL standings in the regular season with a record of 43-15-8-2, and made some Canadian history with Sunday's win.

Valeri Nichushkin sees the NHL in his future.The former 10th overall pick of the Dallas Stars, who has spent the past two seasons in his native Russia, hopes to spend the coming campaign in the NHL."Val very much wants to come back," Mark Gandler, who represents Nichushkin, told Sean Shapiro of The Athletic. "Dallas wants him back and we are just very hopeful we'll be able to take care of this very soon."Nichushkin made the immediate jump to the NHL after the Stars used a high pick for his selection in the 2013 draft. That season, he finished with 34 points, tied with fellow freshmen Sean Monahan and Mark Scheifele.In all, Nichushkin lasted just three seasons in Dallas, counting 166 games plus a stint with the Stars' AHL affiliate, before taking his game to the KHL. Reports indicated that a rift with bench boss Lindy Ruff were among the reasons why Nichushkin headed back to Russia.But Ruff is long gone from the Stars, and first-year coach Jim Montgomery is set to manage the bench in the coming campaign.As for Nichushkin, he scored 27 points in 50 games with CSKA Moscow last season, a level of production that has both he and his agent feeling satisfied."Goals and points is very difficult to find on the big ice surface. Particularly in that league, and it's a very tight-checking league," Gandler added. "So points and goals are difficult to come by, but considering all that, I think it was a very good season."Should Nichushkin return to Texas, he'll first need to put pen to paper, as he remains property of the Stars as an unsigned, restricted free agent.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Bob Hartley is back in the professional coaching ranks.The former NHL bench boss was named head coach of the KHL's Avangard Omsk on Sunday, just days after he led Team Latvia to a 3-1-2-2 showing at the World Championship.Hartley coached Latvia at the last two worlds, and he also served as a consultant for the country's entry at the 2016-17 world juniors.Hartley hasn't coached in the NHL since 2015-16, when he wrapped up a four-year run with the Calgary Flames. But there's no denying his credentials. The 57-year-old has won wherever he's coached, collecting championships in the QMJHL, AHL, Swiss League, and a Stanley Cup win with the Colorado Avalanche.Hartley was also given the Jack Adams Award as the NHL's coach of the year following the 2014-15 campaign. He owns a 463-361-120 record across 944 NHL games.While it's unknown if Hartley is aiming for a return to an NHL bench, his path through Russia isn't unorthodox. Winnipeg Jets head coach Paul Maurice led the KHL's Magnitogorsk Metallurg in 2012-13 before heading to Manitoba the following season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2018 Memorial Cup runs from May 18-29 in Regina, Saskatchewan. Stay up to date with game action via our daily scoreboard (all times Eastern).Sunday, May 27

Few things go better together than the Stanley Cup Playoffs and beards.Whether superstition or simply a break from taking out the razor, the postseason offers an opportunity for some of the NHL's best to show off their beard game. And it hasn't gone unnoticed:Ryan EllisIt wasn't the banner year for the Nashville Predators like many pundits predicted, but there was still plenty to appreciate. Like Ryan Ellis' facial follicles. The bearded blue-liner had an injury-shortened season, but didn't miss a moment of playoff action, as he appeared in all 13 of Nashville's playoff games.Nikita KucherovCall him a complete player. When Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov isn't challenging the likes of superstar Connor McDavid for the NHL scoring lead, he's rocking the stubble look around the clock. And not only did he up his offensive game in the playoffs, he also let the face flow run wild.Patrik LaineSimply magnificent. It's difficult to find better words to describe the beard game of Winnipeg Jets superstar Patrik Laine. As fans in the Manitoba capital dressed for their iconic white out during the Jets' playoff run, one final touch was deemed necessary: some fake facial hair that mimicked Laine's look.James NealFirst a trip to the Stanley Cup Final, and now a spot on the "5 best beards" list. After making the trip a year ago while with the Predators, the veteran winger is set to make his second straight Finals appearance, and he's bringing a familiar look: The NHL's best ginger beard. Too bad another redhead rules Sin City.Alex OvechkinIf the Capitals captain is superstitious, all doubt was removed when he readily embraced the Prince of Wales Trophy. The award recognizes Washington as the Eastern Conference champions, just as Ovi's burly, brown beard means that his age is only starting to show up top.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The 2018 NHL season will finish with a first-time winner hoisting the Stanley Cup.The expansion-club phenoms out of Vegas are in one corner, having defied all odds during a historic march to the Stanley Cup Final. In the other corner are the Washington Capitals, a team that's punched its ticket to the final for the first time since 1998 after years of heartbreak.The Golden Knights have opened as favorites. But, as this roster breakdown shows, the matchup may be a little tighter than it appears.ForwardsDuring the Western Conference Final, the Golden Knights took out a Winnipeg Jets offense that was ranked second in the regular season.Now they'll have to match the firepower of a Capitals' forward group that's been far more dangerous during the playoffs.Each team is led by a first line that has done some heavy lifting. For the Capitals, their top trio of Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and Tom Wilson have combined for 58 playoff points. Meanwhile, Vegas has been spearheaded by Jonathan Marchessault, William Karlsson, and Reilly Smith, who have piled up 47 points. Those two top lines are nearly a wash considering the difference in games played (a combined 54 by the Capitals' top three, and 45 by Vegas' lead unit).Related: Knights' and Capitals' top lines take very different routes to dominanceHowever, overall, the Capitals have outscored Vegas forwards 59-35, potting 24 more goals in just four more games, and averaging 3.11 goals per game compared to the Golden Knights' 2.33.Edge: Capitals - The Golden Knights forwards have done exactly what they've needed, but the Capitals stars have been more lethal in their pursuit of glory.DefenseThe Golden Knights' defense has accumulated 23 playoff points, while John Carlson alone has put up 16 points for the Capitals, that says all you need to know about the matchup on defense.Overall, Washington's blue-liners have scored one fewer goal than the Golden Knights' backend (7), but 16 more points. They've also fired 192 shots at the opposition, much more than Vegas' 115.On the opposite side of the puck, the Capitals have averaged 28.2 shots against per game, the second-fewest in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights have given up the fifth-most at 33.7 per game and are also averaging 9.87 high-danger scoring chances against per game at five-on-five in the playoffs compared to the Capitals' 8.84.Edge: Capitals - Whether it be on the scoreboard or in their own end, the Capitals' defense has been more effective than that of the Golden Knights.GoaliesAfter starting the postseason on the bench behind Philipp Grubauer, Braden Holtby has come alive.He's returned to his Vezina-winning form after a regular season that was a career-worst statistically. Riding back-to-back shutouts as he enters the Stanley Cup Final, Holtby has posted a .923 save percentage (third in the playoffs among goalies with five appearances) and a 2.04 goals-against average (second).There's just one problem: The man who occupies the top spot in both those categories will be staring him down from the opposite end of the rink.Marc-Andre Fleury leads the postseason with a .947 save percentage and a 1.68 goals against average, putting up four shutouts along the way. His save percentage sits as the seventh-best postseason mark among any goalie to play at least six games during a single playoff run.Edge: Golden Knights - Holtby has been great, but it's impossible not to give the edge to Fleury and the Golden Knights here.(Photos courtesy: Action Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

More good news for the Vegas Golden Knights.Up-and-coming blue-liner Nicolas Hague was named the Canadian Hockey League's defenseman of the year Saturday as the development league handed out its annual awards.Selected with the 34th pick in last year's draft, Hague recently completed his third season with the OHL's Mississauga Steelheads, recording a team-leading 78 points with 35 goals - the most by an OHL defender since 1998.When his junior year ended, the 19-year-old got a taste of the pro ranks, appearing in five games with the AHL's Chicago Wolves, the Golden Knights' minor-league affiliate. He's expected to return to the Steelheads next season.Also among the award winners was Philadelphia Flyers prospect Carter Hart, who was named the CHL's goaltender of the year. The Everett Silvertips netminder is the first two-time recipient of the award after winning it in 2015-16. Earlier this month, he became the first WHL goalie to win three straight Del Wilson Memorial Trophies, presented to that league's goaltender of the year.Alex Barre-Boulet was named player of the year after he capped his season with the QMJHL's Blainville-Boisbriand Armada by tallying 116 points in just 65 games. The performance comes after he finished the 2016-17 campaign with 81 points in 65 games. In March, the 21-year-old signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning as an undrafted free agent.See a complete list of award winners here.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After falling short of their Stanley Cup aspirations in the Eastern Conference Final, the Tampa Bay Lightning's focus shifts to the draft, roster players in need of contracts, and free agency.While it's an important period for any team, one name in particular sticks out above the rest on the Lightning's ledger, as superstar Nikita Kucherov is eligible for a contract extension July 1.Kucherov, a restricted free agent after next season, has one year at $4.67 million remaining on his bridge deal signed in 2016. Based on his incredible body of work since inking the team-friendly contract, it's safe to assume the 24-year-old is due for a hefty raise, but it doesn't appear his summer will be occupied with negotiations.Kucherov's agent, Dan Milstein, told Joe Smith of The Athletic that the Lightning and Kucherov haven't begun talks on a new deal and aren't expected to until the 2018-19 season starts.It doesn't appear Lightning fans have reason to worry, though."He wants to stay in Tampa - he doesn't want to go anywhere," Milstein said. "Worst case, it's arbitration, they're not going to lose him. Both sides want him to be in Tampa."Since signing his last contract, Kucherov has blossomed into one of the league's premier offensive threats. In 154 games played, he ranks third among all players in goals (79), second in points (185), and third in points per game (1.20).Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

This year's Stanley Cup Final pits a perennial contender finally on the verge of glory against a first-year expansion team looking to shock the world.It's been an exhilarating ride to the Cup and while everyone knows about Alex Ovechkin's elusive pursuit of his first title, a lot of strong contributors for both the Washington Capitals and Vegas Golden Knights have yet to receive national recognition.If you're scrambling to find familiarity with both teams, have no fear, we have you covered. Here is every player in this year's Final, ranked:1. Alex Ovechkin, Capitals At this point, we all know the talking points. The seven-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner is looking to win his first Stanley Cup, in what would be the culmination of one of the greatest careers of the 21st century. Ovechkin is the face of the Caps, won the Richard again this year, and has been an all-around menace this spring. It's time for him to lift the Cup.2. Marc-Andre Fleury, Golden Knights It's hard to imagine the Golden Knights getting anywhere near the Cup without Fleury in phenomenal form. Posting a spectacular .947 save percentage and 1.68 goals against average, Fleury is playing the best hockey of his career and will be counted upon to steal a game or two for the Golden Knights against the Capitals' vaunted offense.3. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Capitals An electrifying talent, Kuznetsov has elevated his game throughout the playoffs and leads all players with 24 points. Kuznetsov's speed and ability to navigate in tight spaces are key assets for the Capitals. He's the player most likely to score a goal that will live on highlight reels forever, while angling for the Conn Smythe Trophy.4. Braden Holtby, Capitals It feels like ancient history at this point but Holtby was benched in favor of Philipp Grubauer for the start of the playoffs. Holtby has performed admirably since, rounding himself into top shape with a .923 save percentage and 2.04 GAA. If Holtby can replicate his Vezina Trophy-winning form, it will be nearly impossible to take down the Capitals.5. John Carlson, Capitals Carlson will be the most coveted unrestricted free-agent defenseman on the open market this summer and could see his value ascend to astronomical levels with a standout Cup. The 28-year-old led all D-men with 68 points during the regular season and could propel the Capitals to the title with his offensive exploits.6. Jonathan Marchessault, Golden KnightsMarchessault scored 30 goals with the Florida Panthers in 2016-17, and yet they were still compelled to leave him unprotected in the expansion draft. Big mistake. Marchessault notched 75 points during the regular season and leads the Golden Knights with eight goals and 18 points during the playoffs. With excellent vision and puck skills from in close, Marchessault will be relied upon heavily to spearhead Vegas' offense.7. Nicklas Backstrom, Capitals Although the prevailing narrative is built around Ovechkin's quest for the Cup, Backstrom has been there every step of the way, serving as one of the NHL's most reliable playmakers. This spring is no different, and Backstrom - despite a hand injury - will be counted upon to tee up Ovechkin and Co., while adding secondary goal-scoring throughout the series if the Capitals are to raise the trophy.8. William Karlsson, Golden Knights Karlsson best embodies the unpredictable success of the Golden Knights. Made available by the Columbus Blue Jackets, Karlsson unexpectedly scored 43 goals, topping his previous career best of nine. Gifted with excellent speed, Karlsson can score in traffic and navigate tight spaces with proficiency. With 13 points through 15 playoff games, Karlsson will need to continue to light the lamp for Vegas to win the Cup.9. Reilly Smith, Golden Knights The final component of the Golden Knights' top line, Smith has served as a strong playmaker through the postseason, dishing out 14 assists and adding two goals in 15 games. Much like his linemates, Smith could cap off a season in the grandest way imaginable if he continues to produce.10. T.J. Oshie, Capitals A devastating player in 1-on-1 scenarios, Oshie has continued to amplify the Capitals' offense throughout the playoffs, posting seven goals and 15 points in 19 games. Oshie was the hero of Washington's Game 6 victory over Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference finals, and his propensity to excel on the big stage will be tested once again.11. Matt Niskanen, Capitals Niskanen isn't the flashiest player in this series, but he gets the job done. Logging over 25 minutes per game, Niskanen is a solid presence in his own end and can contribute secondary offense when necessary.12. Tom Wilson, Capitals Some may object to Wilson's place on this list but his impact is certainly felt by his opponents. One of the league's most punishing hitters, Wilson is a strong skater who will get under his opponent's skin throughout the contest and is constantly aggressive on the forecheck. Because he's prone to theatrics, Wilson's overall skill set has been criminally underrated. Count him out at your own peril.13. Nate Schmidt, Golden Knights Schmidt is looking for revenge against his former club and leads Vegas in ice time, playing just under 25 minutes per game. It's unlikely Schmidt will make headlines, but he's vital to the Golden Knights' defensive scheme and organization within their own end.14. Lars Eller, Capitals Eller signed a five-year, $17.5-million extension with the Capitals in February in large part due to his consistency and embodies everything you'd want out of a modern third-line center. Although he's seldom been used in this capacity with the Capitals, Eller is capable of contributing from the wing if needed.15. James Neal, Golden Knights Prior to the season, Neal was expected to be the catalyst of the Golden Knights' offense. Although he's been usurped by the team's first line, Neal is still a prototypical power forward capable of breaking games open with his size, speed, and puck control in tight spaces. Neal has notched 40 goals in his career before and could be due for an offensive explosion during the Final.16. Dmitry Orlov, Capitals Orlov is a mobile defenseman who often leads breakouts and provides secondary offense routinely for the Capitals. A good hitter in the open ice, Orlov can get caught out of position while aggressively pursuing the puck.17. Brayden McNabb, Golden KnightsMcNabb isn't going to win anyone over with flash and panache but he's a solid two-way presence featuring alongside Schmidt, logging 22 minutes per game with a physical presence.18. Shea Theodore, Golden Knights Theodore was selected in the first round of the 2013 NHL Draft by Anaheim but underwent his career year in Vegas, notching six goals and 29 points during the regular season.19. Brooks Orpik, Capitals Orpik was once known for being a reckless physical presence, but he's developed into a serene player in his own end who plays a simple game and who's capable of logging heavy minutes if needed. The 37-year-old is looking for the second Cup of his career, having previously won in 2009 with Pittsburgh.20. Alex Tuch, Golden Knights Tuch was selected 18th overall by Minnesota in the 2014 NHL Draft and has truly blossomed with Vegas. After playing sparingly with the Wild, Tuch has consistently generated secondary offense for the Golden Knights and will be counted upon for some timely goals. It's hard to believe that Tuch was acquired as a nominal piece from the Erik Haula signing.21. Erik Haula, Golden Knights Haula was one of the Golden Knights' first major signings and the return on value has been mixed. After a 29-goal regular season, Haula essentially disappeared entirely during the Western Conference Finals. It's time for him to truly prove his worth as one of the league's most underrated talents.22. Michal Kempny, Capitals Kempny is a great skater but there's nothing truly outstanding about his game. After being acquired in a February trade with Chicago, Kempny has carved out his role as a reliable defenseman who can log around 20 minutes per game with limited offensive upside.23. Chandler Stephenson, Capitals A relative unknown prior to this season, Stephenson is playing the best hockey of his career in a bottom-six role for the Capitals. His place on this list is derived from his strong performance during the playoffs and he'll need to be at his best during the Cup.24. Deryk Engelland, Golden Knights Widely considered to be the leader of the expansion Golden Knights, Engelland simply doesn't get rattled. At 36, some figured Engelland would struggle in a larger role but his mistake-free, low-risk game has been a major asset and will be key qualities against an opportunistic Capitals' offense.25. Colin Miller, Golden Knights Miller's slapshot may as well be a rocket launcher, once getting clocked at 105.5 mph during the 2015 AHL All-Star Skills competition. Though his production has tailed off during the playoffs, the sheer velocity of Miller's shot can create scoring opportunities for his teammates.26. Luca Sbisa, Golden Knights The Swiss international fought through an injury-filled campaign to return in time for the Golden Knights' playoff run. Finally healthy after being limited to 30 games during the regular season, Sbisa is in the form of his life and will be relied upon heavily to bury the Capitals' scoring lines.27. Devante Smith-Pelly, Capitals Smith-Pelly is an expert penalty killer who will throw himself at 90-mph-plus slapshots without hesitation. Although he has limited offensive upside, Smith-Pelly's ability to destroy defenders on the forecheck will help the Capitals establish their presence in the offensive zone.28. Brett Connolly, Capitals Selected sixth overall in the 2010 NHL Draft, Connolly hasn't lived up to his billing as a prospect, but has forged a role as a solid bottom-six contributor. If there were ever a time to show why he was once considered a potentially elite scoring threat, it's now.29. David Perron, Golden Knights The book hasn't changed all too much on Perron. You're getting a solid playmaker with the ability to elevate his game and score in bunches. Perron hasn't scored during the playoffs, however, and he's certainly due.30. Jay Beagle, Capitals Beagle is excellent on faceoffs and helps the Capitals establish their presence in the offensive zone with his proficiency. Although the rest of his game is unremarkable, Beagle can wear down the Golden Knights by continuing to beat his man off the draw.31. Jakub Vrana, CapitalsAt 22, Vrana is still coming into his own as a player but he'll need to be more consistent during the Final. Vrana was completely erased by the Lightning in the Eastern Conference Finals, and could see his minutes shortened if he's a zero on the offensive end.32. Andre Burakovsky, Capitals What a time to have a breakout game! Burakovsky submitted the performance of his young career in Washington's Game 7 triumph over Tampa Bay, scoring two pivotal goals to advance to the Final. Selected in the first round of the 2013 draft, Burakovsky could reward his franchise's faith in him with a few more clutch goals.33. Cody Eakin, Golden KnightsEakin is a solid center for the Golden Knights but he'll need to do more during the Final as he was practically non-existent offensively against the Jets.34. Ryan Carpenter, Golden KnightsCarpenter has established himself as a decent checking forward but don't expect him to light the lamp against a well-organized Capitals defense.35. Christian Djoos, Capitals Djoos is the final man on the Capitals' defensive depth chart and his game is centered around avoiding mistakes and cleanly redistributing the puck. He'll likely be paired against the Golden Knights' bottom-six forwards.36. Ryan Reaves, Golden KnightsReaves is known as an enforcer and while some have lobbied for him to be replaced by a more skilled forward, he scored when it counted during Vegas' Game 5 victory over Winnipeg. Acquired at the trade deadline, Reaves will be tasked with physically wearing down the Capitals' defensemen.37. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, Golden Knights Bellemare is grit personified. There's nothing pretty about his game but the French international shares the common trait that all Vegas' defensemen share in mitigating risk.38. Jon Merrill, Golden KnightsMerrill signed a two-year contract extension with Vegas in January and figures into their long-term plans. He hasn't seen any playing time since Sbisa returned, however, and will likely only play if an injury occurs.39. Tomas Nosek, Golden KnightsWith three points in 12 games, Nosek could be replaced in the lineup if he doesn't start generating more quality chances.40. Oscar Lindberg, Golden KnightsAn often maddening player due to his inconsistency, Lindberg hasn't played since May 12.41. Tomas Tatar, Golden Knights Tatar was acquired in February from the Detroit Red Wings but he's been completely erratic through the playoffs, notching one goal in six games.42. Alex Chiasson, Capitals A capable secondary scorer when needed, Chiasson may be the odd man out for the Capitals in this series.43. William Carrier, Golden Knights A depth forward, Carrier has been out with an undisclosed injury and may be held out for the duration of the series.44. Nathan Walker, CapitalsWalker became the first Australian player to play in the NHL and while it's a cool factoid, he's unlikely to see notable playing time.45. Philipp Grubauer, CapitalsThis isn't an indictment of Grubauer, but it does seem highly unlikely that he'll play with Holtby starring throughout the playoffs.46. Malcolm Subban, Golden KnightsBarring disaster, P.K. Subban's little brother will not be seeing the ice.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Washington Capitals will not be tempted by the Las Vegas nightlife.The Capitals descend on Sin City when they open the Stanley Cup Final on Monday night against the Golden Knights. Alex Ovechkin has made it clear the team is focused on one goal."We're going there to play hockey, not to pool party and play in (the) casino," Ovechkin said, according to NHL.com's Tom Gulitti. "We're going there to play hockey and do our thing and then we’re going to have all the summer, and whatever we want to do, we can do it."The Golden Knights were one of the best regular-season home teams, finishing with 29 wins (tied for third). That caused many to speculate road teams were falling ill to the infamous "Vegas flu," something the Capitals are looking to avoid.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The group looking to bring an NHL team to Seattle will have to wait a little longer to get the rubber stamp.It's long been thought conditional approval for an expansion franchise in the Emerald City could come at the Board of Governors meetings next month. But NHL commissioner Gary Bettman says that plan has changed.“Is it going to be on the June agenda? No," he told Tim Booth and Stephen Whyno of The Associated Press. "After that, could it be September? Could it be the annual meeting in December? It’s possible.”Back in March, as Tim Leiweke's Oak View Group (along with investors David Bonderman and Jerry Bruckheimer) celebrated a successful ticket drive, both Leiweke and Bruckheimer mentioned the June meetings as the next hurdle to clear. However, Bettman told the AP this week the league is going to take its time.“What we have said to the people - David Bonderman’s (Oak View Group) - is we’re on your timetable," Bettman said, adding that the NHL still has plenty of work to do on the matter."We have to finish doing our due diligence and our homework. We need to have the timetable understanding as to when the building’s going to get done. We can move as fast or as slowly as you want. There’s no rush."Bettman said OVG has some work to do as well, including overseeing the redevelopment of Seattle's KeyArena.“We’re in the middle of the process. They’re doing their homework, and they’re proceeding on two fronts because they’ve got to renovate a building and they’ve got to pursue the team and they’re doing both very nicely. They’re working with the city, they hired (CEO of the prospective team) Tod Leiweke."Seattle fans responded in full force on March 1, putting down 10,000 deposits in the first 12 minutes of the ownership group's ticket drive.If the NHL grants the city an expansion club, it would likely begin play in the 2020-21 season.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It's time for the Stanley Cup Final, and to get you ready for the showdown between the Vegas Golden Knights and Washington Capitals, we've prepared a statistical breakdown to set the table. (Advanced stats at 5-on-5 courtesy: Corsica)Golden Knights 1P vs. Capitals 1MGolden KnightsStatCapitals12-3Playoff record12-716Goal differential1949.82% (7th)5-on-5 Corsi49.67% (8th)8.53% (3rd)Shooting percentage7.99% (7th).960 (1st)Save percentage.934 (4th)104.56 (1st)PDO101.43 (3rd)Jonathan Marchessault (18)Leading scorerEvgeny Kuznetsov (24)It all comes down to this: The Golden Knights will either finish their fairytale year as champions in their first-ever season, or the Capitals secure a first Stanley Cup after 42 years of frustration.Entering the NHL in 1974, the Capitals' first-year finish of just eight wins and 21 points still stands as the league's worst inaugural showing. But the Golden Knights rewrote the record books for different reasons this year, after a 109-point season.The two sides will now meet in the Stanley Cup Final after knocking out a pair of formidable opponents in the third round. Vegas trounced the high-flying Winnipeg Jets in five games, while the Tampa Bay Lightning - a team many pundits pegged to win the Cup this year - had their season cut short after a Game 7 loss at home to Washington.But how do the Golden Knights and Capitals match up for the final round? There is little historical reference to draw from, being that they faced off against each other just twice this season. Vegas, however, took both contests - including a 3-0 shutout victory. Will things be different in the postseason? We'll know soon enough, as the puck drops Monday for Game 1.ScheduleGameDateTime (ET)HomeTV1Monday May 288 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC2Wednesday May 308 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBCSN3Saturday June 28 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBCSN4Monday June 48 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC5*Thursday June 78 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC6*Sunday June 108 p.m.WashingtonCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC7*Wednesday June 138 p.m.VegasCBC/SN/TVAS/NBC* If necessaryCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Phil Housley isn't a hockey scout, but he plays one online.Despite being just six weeks into his offseason, the Buffalo Sabres head coach is already looking forward to the year ahead. Of course, it helps that his team was awarded the top pick in this summer's entry draft and the right to select Swedish standout defenseman Rasmus Dahlin."It came down to the last two teams there and when they flipped over the Buffalo Sabres logo, I was jumping up and down and we were high-fiving in our family room," Housley told Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News. "I thought, 'This is finally a great breakthrough for this organization.' What a cornerstone for us to get Rasmus Dahlin. It really gives us hope."While not yet a done deal, Dahlin will have the chance to finally pull on a Sabres sweater when the NHL heads to Dallas on June 22 for the 2018 draft.The budding blue-liner, who has been likened to fellow countrymen Nicklas Lidstrom and Victor Hedman, is expected to make the immediate jump to the NHL after spending his formative years in Sweden.Given that he plays across the pond, there's been little opportunity for Housley to watch Dahlin with regularity. Enter the Internet."I know these are highlights and he's a young man and has to mature and really get to the NHL and North American game, but just seeing his poise and his hockey IQ of processing the game at a high speed is really, really something," Housley added. "I've been watching on YouTube and, boy, it's incredible. He's going to be a complete package in today's NHL."Of course, Housley would recognize a top defenseman when he sees one. The Minnesota native skated in nearly 1,500 career games and accumulated 1,232 points, ranking fourth all time and first among American-born blue-liners.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

In order to make it to the Stanley Cup Final, a team's top players need to be its best players when things matter most. That's certainly been true for the Vegas Golden Knights and the Washington Capitals.William Karlsson, Jonathan Marchessault, and Reilly Smith were sensational for the Golden Knights in the regular season, and haven't slowed in the playoffs. The same can be said for the Capitals' line of Evgeny Kuznetsov, Alex Ovechkin, and Tom Wilson. Both lines have carried a heavy load for their respective teams in the postseason so far.Line% of G% of A% of PTSVGK37.240.839.5WSH39.428.232.4Marchessault, Smith, and Karlsson are first, second, and third on Vegas in playoff points, and the only three Golden Knights with double-digit points.Meanwhile, Kuznetsov and Ovechkin are first and second in playoff points league-wide, while Wilson has 11 points despite serving a three-game suspension.Both lines have proven crucial to the success of their teams, but what's really fascinating is the contrast between their styles of play.Golden KnightsKarlsson, Marchessault, and Smith could be the quickest line in the NHL. Beyond pure speed, they all have outstanding agility, and are quick to pounce on loose pucks and apply pressure to opposing puck carriers. These three epitomize Vegas' team slogan of "play fast."While their offensive creativity is well-known, this line doesn't get enough credit on the defensive side of the puck. Karlsson, Marchessault, and Smith finished first, third, and sixth, respectively, on the team in takeaways in the regular season, even though the latter missed 15 games. They're great at turning defense into offense, as evidenced here (with the help of a bad change).

The Edmonton Oilers have added to their coaching staff by hiring Glen Gulutzan, Trent Yawney, and Manny Viveiros as assistant coaches, the team announced Friday.Gulutzan spent the last two seasons as the head coach of the Calgary Flames, leading them to a playoff berth in 2016-17. He previously worked as an assistant with the Vancouver Canucks for three years, and was head coach of the Dallas Stars for two seasons, missing the playoffs in both years.Yawney played 593 NHL games as a defenseman with the Chicago Blackhawks, Flames, and St. Louis Blues. He became head coach of the Blackhawks in 2005-06, but was let go midway through the following season. He's spent the last four seasons as an assistant coach with the Anaheim Ducks.Viveiros had a cup of coffee in the NHL, skating in 29 games with the Minnesota North Stars in the '80s. He led the Swift Current Broncos to a WHL championship as the club's head coach this spring.The trio's coaching duties are expected to be delegated in the following manner, according to Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal.

The Vancouver Canucks signed forward Elias Pettersson to a three-year, entry-level contract, the team announced Friday.Pettersson is coming off a stellar first season in the SHL where he paced the league in both regular-season and playoff scoring with 56 and 19 points respectively, each standing as new SHL records by a U20 player."Elias is a talented offensive player with tremendous vision and skill," general manager Jim Benning said in a release. "Like most Canucks fans we watched with excitement the incredible season he had in Sweden. This is an important offseason of training and development for Elias and we expect him to be ready to challenge for a roster spot in training camp."His impeccable season earned him a boatload of hardware. Pettersson captured the SHL championship, was named Rookie of the Year and Best Forward, and earned MVP honors for both the regular season and playoffs.

All season long, the Vegas Golden Knights have been earning a reputation as the hardest-working group in the NHL, winning contest after contest with their relentless speed and commitment to playing a responsible 200-foot game.After smashing all expectations and rewriting the history books, the expansion club finds itself staring down the Washington Capitals for the 2018 Stanley Cup title.However, getting past a Capitals group led by a ravenous Alex Ovechkin and reinvigorated Braden Holtby won't be an easy task. If the Knights are to complete the storybook season and hoist Lord Stanley, these three factors will be paramount:Defend home iceFlu or not, beating the Knights in Sin City isn't easy. Vegas owned one of the best home records in the league during the regular season, winning 29 games at T-Mobile Arena.Winning on home ice against Washington will be even more crucial, because the Capitals have been absolute warriors on the road this postseason, posting an impressive 8-2 record, conceding just 20 goals in 10 away games, and clinching all three road series.

Well, here we are: days away from a scenario that sounds too unbelievable to be real. Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals will take the ice in a Stanley Cup Final game, and that game - and potentially three more - will be hosted by Las freakin' Vegas.This year's playoff finale, while completely unexpected, sets up to be a memorable one.In one corner, a misfit team of destiny, hell-bent on proving droves of naysayers wrong. In the other, a veteran roster that has finally reached the mountaintop in a year when expectations were lower than in years past.Here are three things those veteran Capitals need to do to thwart the Golden Knights and win their first Stanley Cup.Split in VegasWith the luxury of home-ice advantage in the hands of the Golden Knights, it's imperative the Capitals win at least one of the first two games at T-Mobile Arena.Of course, Washington would love to win both, as it did in Tampa Bay, but Vegas was 29-10-2 at home in its inaugural campaign and has followed that up with a 6-1 playoff record in Sin City, so the Caps winning on the road is much easier said than done.The good news for the Capitals is they're 8-2 on the road in the postseason and are scoring 3.6 goals per game in those contests. That trend will need to continue if they hope to hit the jackpot in Vegas.Exploit Vegas' roster for what it isThe mighty Golden Knights were simply too good for the playoff-tested Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks, and took care of the league's second-best team, the Winnipeg Jets, in a tidy five-game series. So how can their roster still leave so much to be desired?The top-line trio of William Karlsson, Reilly Smith, and Jonathan Marchessault has been one of the best in hockey since the season started, and is the driving force behind Vegas reaching this point. But how much of an advantage do they have over the Capitals' top unit?LineTOICF%Goals For-AgainstScoring Chances For-Against (%)Karlsson-Smith-Marchessault202:0354.28%10-498-87 (52.97%)Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Wilson192:0154.59%13-8111-75 (59.68%)It's a fairly even fight, so if the Caps' top line can neutralize the Golden Knights', the focus shifts to the depth of both teams, in which Washington should hold a considerable advantage.With Nicklas Backstrom (fully healthy or not) and the surprising Lars Eller anchoring lines two and three, Washington wins the battle down the middle of the ice and needs to utilize its advantage. The Caps have done just that through three rounds, as forwards outside the top line have combined for 74 points.For Vegas, numbers quite clearly don't tell the entire story. The Golden Knights reached this point by playing in a relentless up-tempo style and making the most of their offensive opportunities. It remains to be seen whether they can maintain such efficiency under the NHL's brightest lights.Win the goaltending battleRemember when Philipp Grubauer started the playoffs between the pipes for the Capitals? That now feels like forever ago.Since taking over the crease in a rescue effort, Braden Holtby has effectively erased what was an uncharacteristically poor season, posting a .924 save percentage across 17 starts, and cementing a berth in the Stanley Cup Final with back-to-back shutouts over the Lightning with his team on the brink of elimination.Holtby will need to continue that stellar play, as his competition on the other end of the ice, a familiar adversary in Marc-Andre Fleury, has been lights out since the playoffs kicked off. An overwhelming favorite to capture the Conn Smythe, Fleury has gone 12-3 with an absurd .947 save percentage despite Vegas surrendering nearly 34 shots per game.Above all else, the Capitals, who lead the postseason with 66 goals, need to find a way to knock Fleury off his game the way the Kings, Sharks, and Jets failed to do, and hope Holtby can out-duel him along the way. At this point, it seems a near-impossible task, but if they can find an answer, they just might be Stanley Cup champions.(Stats Courtesy: Natural Stat Trick)

Vegas Golden Knights general manager George McPhee should be an awfully proud man.Not only is McPhee primed to win GM of the year - and go down in history - for being the architect of the best expansion team in any sport, but he's also largely responsible for constructing the roster that will take the visitors' side of the rink at T-Mobile Arena on Monday night.McPhee was GM of the Washington Capitals from 1997-98 until the 2013-14 campaign. He built a perennial regular-season juggernaut in D.C., but postseason failures, missing the playoffs in his final year, and the horrendous Filip Forsberg-for-Martin Erat trade ultimately led to his demise.However, he acquired the majority of the Capitals team in place today, mostly through the draft.PlayerAcquiredAlex Ovechkin'04 Draft 1st rd (1st)Nicklas Backstrom'06 Draft 1st rd (4th)Jay Beagle'07 Undrafted free agentJohn Carlson'08 Draft 1st rd (27th)Braden Holtby'08 Draft 4th rd (93rd)Dmitry Orlov'09 Draft 2nd rd (55th)Evgeny Kuznetsov'10 Draft 1st rd (26th)Philipp Grubauer'10 Draft 4th rd (112th)Travis Boyd'11 Draft 6th rd (177th)Tom Wilson'12 Draft 1st rd (16th)Chandler Stephenson'12 Draft 3rd rd (77th)Christian Djoos'12 Draft 7th rd (195th)Andre Burakovsky'13 Draft 1st rd (23rd)Madison Bowey'13 Draft 2nd rd (53rd)McPhee's ability to hit on first-round picks is uncanny. While nearly any GM can make a good selection in the top five, he's made shrewd picks in the latter half of the first round, which is what makes or breaks an organization.As an encore, McPhee's found legitimate NHLers beyond the first round too. In the salary-cap era, having cheap, homegrown players to surround your core is crucial for building a winning team.Current Capitals GM Brian MacLellan deserves a large amount of credit, too. While McPhee was in charge, MacLellan was his right-hand man, serving as a pro scout, then director of player personnel, then as assistant GM for seven seasons before taking the reins when the team didn't renew McPhee's contract.The two combined to build a perennial powerhouse in Washington. McPhee appears well on his way to doing so again in Vegas, and now the former coworkers will meet in the Stanley Cup Final.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A town in Virginia is hoping to temporarily change its name to celebrate the Washington Capitals advancing to the Stanley Cup final for the first time in 20 years.Lovettsville mayor Bob Zoldos announced earlier this month he would seek town council's approval to rename the town "Capitalsville" if Washington secured a Stanley Cup berth, according to Patrick Szabo of Loudoun Now. If approved, the new name will remain in effect throughout the Capitals' series against the Vegas Golden Knights and for at least a week afterward if they win the trophy.The Capitals like the idea, too. Zoldos said team officials are "very excited" about it and that the franchise will have final say in the name. He also wants to host a viewing party with Capitals staff and a small parade if the team wins the Cup."That would be just unbelievable," Zoldos said.- With h/t to Sporting NewsCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With the Stanley Cup Final now on the horizon, theScore's Josh Gold-Smith put together the third installment of the NHL Playoff Power Rankings. (Rankings 5-16 are unchanged from the previous edition.)1. Vegas Golden KnightsHonestly, what else can we say about the best story in the NHL at this point?Doubters keep expecting them to regress, but the expansion darlings continue to prove they belong among the NHL's elite clubs this spring, and they've been the most impressive team in these playoffs.The Golden Knights made quick work of a deep, talented Winnipeg Jets squad, dispatching them in five games, and Vegas is now 12-3 in this postseason.They've opened as the favorites in the Stanley Cup Final, and have a legitimate shot to win as long as Marc-Andre Fleury stays red-hot and the top line of Jonathan Marchessault, William Karlsson, and Reilly Smith continues to do serious damage.2. Washington CapitalsThe second-best story of the playoffs has undoubtedly been the Capitals exorcising their postseason demons, with Alex Ovechkin reaching the championship round for the first time in his 13-year NHL career.Washington reeled off consecutive shutouts of the Tampa Bay Lightning as they forced Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Final and then won that in convincing fashion Wednesday night.Ovechkin looked like a man on a mission as he scored the opening goal of Game 7 a mere 62 seconds in.The Capitals are getting what they need out of their captain, as well as from Nicklas Backstrom, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and goaltender Braden Holtby, but they've also gotten all-important secondary scoring from the likes of Andre Burakovsky, Devante Smith-Pelly, Brett Connolly, and Lars Eller.3. Tampa Bay LightningThe Lightning had the Capitals on the ropes, taking a 3-2 series lead in the conference final before losing Games 6 and 7.Tampa Bay's offense evaporated in those final two contests, and while the Capitals' goaltending and defense certainly deserve credit for that, the Lightning's most dynamic scorers didn't produce when they needed to most.They should certainly hold their heads high after a solid season, but the Lightning had the Capitals where they wanted them and couldn't finish the job.Don't blame Andrei Vasilevskiy, though. The Tampa Bay netminder - who won't turn 24 until late July - was stellar in the series, posting a .932 save percentage over the final five games. The Lightning's core should remain largely intact, so they should be one of the league's best teams once again next season.4. Winnipeg JetsThe Jets had visions of the Cup dancing in their heads after a terrific regular season, and they looked to be on course to fulfilling that as their playoff run progressed. Then they ran into the upstart Golden Knights.That series was closer than it appeared, but Winnipeg had no answer for Vegas' relentlessness.Mark Scheifele tallied three times in the series but was held off the scoresheet in Games 4 and 5, managing only a single shot on goal in the latter, and Connor Hellebuyck wasn't terrible but was simply outplayed by Fleury.Patrik Laine was neutralized, too, but the Jets will be back, and the futures of both the franchise and its brightest young star remain bright.The rest

The San Jose Sharks took a gargantuan risk when they inked forward Evander Kane to a seven-year contract extension worth a reported $49 million on Thursday.There's no denying Kane is a quality player. He's a rugged, physical winger with annual 30-goal potential. Power forwards like him are rare, but that doesn't mean paying him $7 million per year through his age-33 season is a good decision.Kane hasn't performed at a $7-million level yet in his career. In nine NHL seasons, he's averaged 26 goals and 51 points (calculated over an 82-game average). That's OK, but he's also missed an average of 14 games per year.His lack of durability should've been a red flag for the Sharks. Players that have an intensely physical style and dish out roughly 150 hits per year, as Kane does, often don't age well.Not every skater who plays with an edge is set for a shorter prime. Alex Ovechkin is one of the game's most physical forwards, but he rarely gets injured. Some can handle the added toll on the body, while others break down.Even if Kane avoids further injury pitfalls and doesn't decline quicker, paying a winger top dollar isn't always a smart idea. Unless of course it's a franchise player, and that label doesn't apply to Kane.Here's a look at every winger in the NHL with a cap hit of $7 million-plus for the 2018-19 season:PlayerCap hitSigning ageCurrent ageYears leftPatrick Kane$10.5M25295Alex Ovechkin$9.54M22323Jamie Benn$9.5M26287Corey Perry$8.625M27333Claude Giroux$8.275M25304Jakub Voracek$8.25M25286Phil Kessel$8M25304Zach Parise$7.54M27337Vladimir Tarasenko$7.5M23265Bobby Ryan$7.25M27314Evander Kane$7M26267Every player on the list had much more success than Kane prior to signing long-term contracts, and now some of those signings (Perry, Parise, Ryan) haven't quite panned out as their teams had hoped.With a $7-million cap hit, Kane is now paid more than fellow wingers Johnny Gaudreau ($6.75M), David Pastrnak ($6.6M), Brad Marchand ($6.125M), and Filip Forsberg ($6M). All those players signed long-term contracts within the past couple years, were coming off a season better than Kane has ever had, and with the exception of Marchand, were all younger when they signed.Unless a winger is putting up near point-per-game numbers, a team's $7 million-plus is probably better spent on a center or defenseman - positions that have a greater impact on the 200-foot game.This contract could go south because of Kane's individual performance, and worse, it might handcuff the Sharks moving forward.With Kane's $7 million on the books, the Sharks only have $7.43 million left in cap space. Buying out Paul Martin would save them another $2.85 million. But that's still not a lot considering Tomas Hertl and Chris Tierney are restricted free agents and will need new contracts. Also, San Jose surely wants to bring back Joe Thornton on a one-year deal.Assuming Hertl and Tierney require a combined $7 million to sign (that's being very conservative, and it could easily be more), the Sharks would be left with a little over $3 million to bring Thornton back, and not much money for anything else.Looking beyond this summer, both Logan Couture and Joe Pavelski are scheduled to be UFAs after next season. They each currently carry cap hits of $6 million. Couture will likely require a raise, while Pavelski could come back for around the same price, or even slightly less if he has a poor year.Had the Sharks not locked up Kane, they could've taken a serious run at John Tavares this offseason. San Jose checks off all the boxes to attract a top free agent:

The San Jose Sharks have signed forward Evander Kane to a seven-year contract extension, the team announced Thursday. As per club policy, the terms of the deal were not disclosed, but TSN's Pierre LeBrun is reporting that the agreement is worth $49 million with the following breakdown:

Although just two teams remain in the hunt for the Stanley Cup, it's still a wide-open race for the Conn Smythe Trophy. Here are the top five leading candidates:5. Jonathan MarchessaultGPGAPATOI+/-158101819:3910The Golden Knights' top line of Marchessault, William Karlsson, and Reilly Smith have been nearly unstoppable this postseason. Marchessault has been the most dangerous of the three, leading the team in goals, points, shots, and is second in assists.4. Braden HoltbyGPW-LGAASV%SO1812-62.04.9242What a whirlwind of a season it's been for Holtby. By now, many forget it was Philipp Grubauer - not Holtby - who was between the pipes for the Capitals in their first two playoff games against the Blue Jackets after the former Vezina Trophy winner endured a turbulent season. That's all in the past, though, as Holtby has played fantastic when it's mattered most.3. Evgeny KuznetsovGPGAPATOI+/-1911132421:317Given that Kuznetsov leads all players in postseason points, there's an argument to be made that he should be higher on this list. He's seemingly brought his speed and creativity every single night. He's gone toe-to-toe with some of the game's best centers in the past two rounds, but yet, he's the one left standing.2. Alex OvechkinGPGAPATOI+/-1912102221:145Ovechkin is in rarefied air, as he sits second in both goals and hits this postseason. Armed with arguably the best shot of all time, plus a 235-pound frame, Ovechkin has simply been a nightmare for the opposition during a grueling playoff run. He's the heart and soul of the team. If he goes, they go. Right now, he's firing on all cylinders.1. Marc-Andre FleuryGPW-LGAASV%SO1512-31.68.9474Fleury has held the top spot on these power rankings since the get-go, and with good reason. He's been absolutely lights out since the beginning of the postseason without any blips on the radar. If the Golden Knights are to win yet another round and hoist the Stanley Cup, Fleury's play in goal will be a massive reason why.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

In the weeks leading up to the 2018 NHL Draft, theScore NHL prospect writer Hannah Stuart breaks down 10 of the most notable draft-eligible players. The tenth and final edition focuses on Joe Veleno.Drafted first overall by the Saint John Sea Dogs in 2015, Joe Veleno was the first QMJHL player to follow in the footsteps of the likes of John Tavares and Connor McDavid and be granted exceptional status, playing major-junior hockey at age 15. At No. 8, he’s also the highest-ranked center among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting.While he's a consensus first-round pick who should become an NHL regular, exactly where Veleno belongs within that first round has been a subject of much debate this season. In fact, he's been under a microscope for his entire QMJHL career thanks to his exceptional status, which has likely contributed to both his ranking and the debate surrounding it.Year in reviewFresh off a 40-point season, a President’s Cup win, and a Memorial Cup appearance with the Sea Dogs in 2016-17, Veleno started off this season by being named captain of the team. It was an honor he retained until he was traded to the Drummondville Voltigeurs in December, when the Sea Dogs sat second from the bottom in the QMJHL. He improved his offensive production significantly in 2017-18, finishing the campaign with 79 points, including 22 goals, in 64 games.At the international level, Veleno captained the gold medal-winning Team Canada at last year’s Ivan Hlinka tournament, where he had two goals and five assists in five games. He also represented Canada at this year’s Under-18 World Championship, which he finished with three points in four games. And while he wasn't invited to Canada’s World Junior Championship selection camp last December, don’t be surprised if you see his name on the list this year.Areas of strengthOne bit of praise often repeated about Veleno is that he already approaches the game in a professional way. That’s pretty subjective, but it’s easy to see why. Veleno plays a dependable 200-foot game, and is able to take on high-pressure roles. His hockey sense and vision are incredible, and those attributes - along with his high-level passing skills - make him an excellent playmaker.His offensive production improved noticeably after his trade, increasing from (a still very good) 31 points in 31 games with the Sea Dogs to 48 points in 33 games with the Voltigeurs. Veleno is a great skater with excellent speed and acceleration. His agility and edgework are high-end, and he uses his skating ability to open up opportunities for himself and his teammates. He’s not afraid to get into board battles, and works hard and smart in his own end.Areas of improvementVeleno’s offensive production was once a concern, but some of that was due to critique based on his exceptional status (which is fair). He took a step forward this season, but could stand to add strength and put more power behind his shot to become a more consistent goal-scorer. As a playmaker, his first instinct is usually to pass, but his hockey sense allows him to pinpoint when he needs to shoot. Putting a little more oomph behind the shot and getting quicker on the release should improve his goal-scoring numbers.He occasionally tries to do too much himself, which could be partly attributed to pressure from his exceptional status. Improving his consistency in the little decision-making moments - whether choosing a better position, making a pass a bit sooner rather than handling the puck too long, or doing these things while using his skating ability to its full potential - should allow him to really put it all together and improve his overall game.Scouting report"A jack-of-all-trades player with a nice tool belt. Great edgework, acceleration, vision, and puck-protection skills. Blazing fast in a straight line. The 18-year-old is already a consummate worker in the defensive end and is a very safe selection as he has a pro-level approach. One of the best power-play distributors in the CHL." - Cam Robinson, DobberProspects.com"There is so much to like about Joe Veleno. He's a hard-nosed workhorse that makes the players around him better. The fleet-footed center is unselfish and will primarily look to make a play at top speed; however, when the chance arises to put it in the pot himself, he will capitalize. He sees the ice well and is rarely caught out of position. His defensive game is refined and he actively pursues puck control. Transitioning to offence is natural, smooth, and quick. All in all, a well-rounded two-way forward that skates well and can be the catalyst a team needs to turn a game in its favor. If he can find the consistency in refusing to let himself get taken out of plays, especially if he doesn't start them, he will thrive and exceed expectations" - Curtis Joe, EliteProspects.comDid You Know?

The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to rebuild their front office, as the team announced Thursday the hiring of Laurence Gilman as their new assistant general manager.Gilman was the Vancouver Canucks' assistant GM from 2008-15. Prior to that, he worked in the Winnipeg Jets/Arizona Coyotes organization for 13 years, including a five-year stint as the assistant GM. He most recently served on the NHL's expansion draft rules and regulations committee in 2016.With the Maple Leafs, Gilman will be the GM of the AHL's Toronto Marlies - a position previously held by current Leafs GM Kyle Dubas. He will also assist with player personnel duties and manage the club's player development department."Laurence provides terrific experience to our management team," said Dubas. "His 20-plus years in the NHL have seen him manage nearly every type of department in professional hockey and have success doing so."Gilman is a highly regarded executive around the league, as he was strongly considered to be the next commissioner of the East Coast Hockey League before taking the job with Toronto, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.After naming Dubas the new GM on May 11, the Leafs have lost two key front-office executives in Lou Lamoriello and Mark Hunter. Lamoriello fled for Long Island after being bumped from the Leafs' GM job into a senior advisor role, while Hunter and the Leafs parted ways after he was passed over for Dubas for the GM role.On Wednesday, the Leafs also promoted Brandon Pridham to the position of assistant GM - a role he and Gilman will fill.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Vegas Golden Knights probably aren't thinking too much about the future beyond the looming Stanley Cup Final. But boy, are they ever set up for it.With the expansion darlings sitting a mere four wins from completing what was previously unthinkable, it's worth exploring how ideal their situation is this summer, and potentially also in the years ahead.Yes, that's right: The Golden Knights could win the Cup and then improve dramatically this offseason, becoming a powerhouse that consistently contends for titles.There are several reasons why Vegas is well-positioned to get significantly better going forward, ensuring their magical run isn't an anomaly.All that cap spaceGolden Knights general manager George McPhee will have some big items on his to-do list this summer. However, he still has enough money to re-sign key contributors while possibly adding a superstar or two.A franchise entering its second season often has salary cap flexibility. Vegas has even more than usual, with a whopping projected $24.8 million to spend.Here's one eyebrow-raising but fairly plausible offseason blueprint:

Needing just one more win to advance to the Stanley Cup Final, the vaunted Tampa Bay Lightning offense simply vanished.After jumping out to a 3-0 lead at the 33-second mark in the second period of Game 5, the Lightning didn't muster a single goal the rest of the series - a span of 159:27, according to Sportsnet Stats.Tampa Bay ultimately held on to win Game 5, but failed to solve Braden Holtby in Games 6 and 7. The Lightning even went over 11 minutes without a shot on goal in the third period of the deciding game.Tampa led the NHL in goals (290) during the regular season. But failing to find the back of the net when it mattered most ultimately ended the Bolts' playoff run.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Stanley Cup Final will open in Las Vegas.The Washington Capitals and Vegas Golden Knights will battle for the Cup beginning Monday, May 28.Here's a look at the entire schedule.GameDateTime (ET)HomeAwayTV1Monday May 288:00 p.m.VegasWashingtonNBC/CBC/TVA/SN2Wednesday May 308:00 p.m.VegasWashingtonNBC/CBC/TVA/SN3Saturday June 28:00 p.m.WashingtonVegasNBC/CBC/TVA/SN4Monday June 48:00 p.m.WashingtonVegasNBC/CBC/TVA/SN5*Thursday June 78:00 p.m.VegasWashingtonNBC/CBC/TVA/SN6*Sunday June 108:00 p.m.WashingtonVegasNBC/CBC/TVA/SN7*Wednesday June 138:00 p.m.VegasWashingtonNBC/CBC/TVA/SN*If necessaryCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

All it took for the Vegas Golden Knights to shed their "underdog" label was a trip to the Stanley Cup Final.With home-ice advantage over the Washington Capitals, who topped the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-0 in Game 7 to advance to their first final in 20 years on Wednesday night, the Golden Knights have opened as favorites to cap their dream season with a championship.Below are the odds for Monday's Game 1, as well as the outcome for the series.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) Alex Ovechkin scored early and Andre Burakovsky added two second-period goals to help the Washington Capitals put a decade of playoff frustration behind them with a 4-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference final Wednesday night.Braden Holtby stopped 29 shots for his second straight shutout and the Lightning, who led the NHL in goals during the regular season, failed to score in the last 159 minutes, 27 seconds - a stretch of nearly eight periods.Ovechkin, who had never played a team that advanced beyond the second round, scored 1:02 into the winner-take-all showdown he had described as probably the ''biggest game in my life.''Nicklas Backstrom had an empty-netter to complete the rout.To earn a spot in the Stanley Cup Final, where they'll play the Vegas Golden Knights, the Capitals beat the top-seeded Lightning three times on the road, improving to 8-2 away from home this postseason.It's Washington's first Cup Final appearance since 1998, and the first during Ovechkin's 13-year career.---More AP hockey: https://apnews.com/tag/NHLhockeyCopyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With the completion of the first period Wednesday night, the Tampa Bay Lightning's goalless streak has hit 119-plus minutes.The Washington Capitals have held their Eastern Conference Final opponent without a goal since Ryan Callahan beat Braden Holtby at the 33-second mark of the second period in Game 5.Since that marker, Holtby has been lights out, stopping all 42 shots he's faced.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced Wednesday that Brandon Pridham has been promoted to the assistant general manager role a day after the team parted ways with former assistant general manager Mark Hunter.Pridham first joined the Leafs as an assistant to the general manager in 2014, and played a key role in salary cap analysis, contract negotiations, and collective bargaining agreement interpretation."Brandon's promotion to assistant general manager is most deserving," Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas said in a statement. "Working closely with him for the last four season has allowed me to see the value that he brings to our program across many domains."Dubas added that Pridham is a "vital part" of the Maple Leafs organization and that he earned the new title due to his "selfless contributions" during his time in Toronto.The promotion of Pridham is Dubas' first move with Toronto since his own promotion to the general manager role earlier this month.Pridham initially joined the Leafs from the National Hockey League, where he most recently served as the senior adviser of Central Scouting and the senior director of the Central Registry. His 15-year career with the NHL began in 1999 as a coordinator in Central Scouting.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Longtime NHL goaltender John Vanbiesbrouck was named the assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey on Wednesday, taking over for the late Jim Johansson."I'm really humbled and honored to have this opportunity," Vanbiesbrouck said. "I look forward to building on the foundation that has been put in place by Art Berglund and Jim Johannson, among others, and while I know I have much to learn, it's a challenge that I'm really excited about."Most recently, Vanbiesbrouck served as the general manager and director of hockey operations for the United States Hockey League's Muskegon Lumberjacks.The Detroit, Mich., native will be tasked with oversight of all of USA Hockey's international programs, including its men's, women's, and sled programs, as well as the National Junior Development Program."It is really exciting to get someone with John's background," said Jim Smith, president of USA Hockey. "He brings a unique perspective, including being a key volunteer for our organization for the last year eight years."During a playing career that saw him appear in 882 games over 20 seasons, Vanbiesbrouck was a two-time NHL All-Star and a two-time Vezina Trophy finalist, winning the award in 1985-86. He's probably best remembered for his play during the 1996 playoffs, in which he posted a .932 save percentage and a 2.25 goals-against average as he carried the underdog Florida Panthers all the way to the Stanley Cup Final.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

David Quinn is now officially an NHL head coach.The longtime Boston University bench boss was tabbed Wednesday as the next man to lead the New York Rangers.Quinn spent the last five years guiding the Terriers, while recruiting numerous future NHL stars including Jack Eichel, Clayton Keller, and Charlie McAvoy.The Rangers fired former head coach Alain Vigneault on the final Saturday night of the NHL's regular season after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2009-10.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper is enjoying every second in the lead-up of a winner-take-all Game 7 against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday."There's a lot of teams that would love to be in our position, you're writing history," he told Fox Sports' Caley Chelios. "If you're not enjoying it, you're not human."History certainly will be made, as Wednesday's victor will have a chance to take on the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final. Though unlikely, it's possible star players such as Alex Ovechkin and Steven Stamkos never get this close to the Cup again, so Game 7s can leave a lasting impact on the legacy of a team or player.The Lightning, however, have been vastly outplayed in this series. They've been outshot in every game so far, and the total shots in the series are 209-145 in Washington's favor. Given that Andrei Vasilevskiy might have to steal yet another game for the Bolts to be victorious, it's surprising Cooper is so at ease.Cooper owns a lifetime record of 2-1 in Game 7s as an NHL coach. Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. ET.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

It appears Toby Enstrom's time as a member of the Winnipeg Jets could be over, and it if that's the case, it ended on salty terms.Enstrom was a healthy scratch in Game 5 against the Vegas Golden Knights, which turned out to be the team's final game of its season. He was reportedly unhappy with head coach Paul Maurice's decision to leave him out of the lineup because he'd been playing through the series with a rib injury, according to Jeff Hamilton and Mike McIntyre of the Winnipeg Free Press.One anonymous source told Hamilton and McIntyre that Enstrom suffered broken ribs, but didn't say when the ailment occurred.Maurice refuted this notion, however, when asked whether Enstrom played through broken ribs."No, he had dealt with broken bones in his feet during the year. But nothing broken," Maurice said, per Hamilton and McIntyre.Jets players had their final exit meetings with coaches and management and met with the media during locker clean-out Tuesday, but Enstrom was nowhere to be found. Reporters who requested to speak with him were told he was "long gone."Enstrom was one of three regulars to be scratched from the lineup for Game 5, along with fellow defenseman Ben Chiarot and forward Andrew Copp. Dmitry Kulikov, Joe Morrow, and Joel Armia stepped in instead. Maurice said he was "looking for some legs and for some jump" after his team had lost three straight.The 2017-18 campaign was the last of a five-year contract carrying a $5.75-million average annual value for Enstrom. A two-time 50-point defenseman, he was a shell of his former self over the last four seasons, suffering numerous injuries and never regaining his offensive form. He had just six points in 43 games this year.Given the Jets' depth on the blue line - including 21-year-old Sami Niku, who was named the AHL's top defenseman in 2017-18 - a return to Winnipeg seems highly unlikely for Enstrom, and if so, it certainly didn't end the way he had hoped.Enstrom, alongside Bryan Little, is the longest-serving player on the Jets/Atlanta Thrashers - dating all the way back to 2007-08.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Mark Hunter insists he hasn't discussed the possibility of joining the Islanders with Lou Lamoriello, the former Toronto Maple Leafs GM who was named New York's president of hockey operations Tuesday.“Isn’t it quick how people want to (make those connections?)” Hunter said with a chuckle to the Toronto Sun's Terry Koshan on Tuesday night. “There is nothing to that. I have not talked to Lou. Lou has a million things going on right now. He has bigger fish.”Hunter called the Leafs GM position "a job you dream of" and expressed disappointment with not being tabbed as the next one, but said he understood team president Brendan Shanahan's decision to promote Kyle Dubas.“No, I don’t get bitter,” Hunter said. “People make decisions and Shanny had his reasons. (I) feel good about what has happened with the team, where we have gone and where we can go. Sure, it’s disappointing. But we all make decisions and move ahead and don’t look back.”He has a non-compete agreement that will prevent other teams from hiring him until July 15.Dubas was named Toronto's GM earlier this month, following Lamoriello's departure in late April.Hunter parted ways with the Leafs on Tuesday morning, in a revelation that came about an hour before Lamoriello was officially appointed to his new role.The former assistant GM served in Toronto's front office for about three-and-a-half years, beginning as director of player personnel in the fall of 2014 and becoming co-interim GM along with Dubas when Dave Nonis was fired in April 2015.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

WASHINGTON – A Game 7 separates the Washington Capitals from their first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 20 years – and there’s no one else head coach Barry Trotz would rather go into battle with.“Going into Game 7, I don’t think I would want another – and I’ve been doing this for a while – I don’t think there’s a team I’ve ever had that I’d want to go into a Game 7 with,” Trotz said Tuesday. “This team has done a lot of special things this year, it’s grown, it continues to do that.”Down 3-2 in the Eastern Conference Final series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Capitals forced a Game 7 with a decisive 3-0 victory in Game 6. It was certainly Braden Holtby's best performance of the series and perhaps Washington’s best game of the playoffs.It could have been the end of their season, but the Capitals made sure that wasn't the case. And, as if it hadn’t been evident enough throughout the playoffs, these are not the same Capitals of the past.“I don’t think we mentally in our mind think about what people say,” star winger Alex Ovechkin said. “Lots of people say we’re going to lose to Columbus. Lots of people say we’re going to lose to Pittsburgh. Lots of people said we’re going to lose to Tampa. (Wednesday) is the biggest probably game in my life and in this team, this organization. We just want to be here and want to come back here to Game 7 and win the game.”The last two years were supposed to be their coronation as the Presidents’ Trophy winner, each time snuffed by the Penguins in the postseason. Where those iterations might have buckled under adversity and the pressure of expectations, these Capitals thrive, having won the division despite struggling through the first quarter of the season.(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)It was a remarkable feat for a team that could have easily circled the drain after starting off so badly – and one that looked rather ordinary after losing plenty of talent over the summer.“I said to my wife, 'on paper we’re not as good this year, but watch: this will be the year we do something,'” defenseman Matt Niskanen said. “That’s just the way it works. Hockey's a funny sport. That just proves how names on a piece of paper don’t win. It’s how guys play together. A lot of things have to go right, big goals, big saves, a bounce here or there. But we’re one step away and guys are excited for the opportunity.”Each time it seems the knockout blow has been struck, the Capitals counterpunch even harder. When they were down 0-2 to the Blue Jackets in the first round, they responded by winning four straight to move on, where the Penguins waited. In that series, they were without two of their top-six forwards for several games – and when they had a chance to eliminate Pittsburgh on the road, they did it.“Can’t tell you the exact moment or why it happened, but something felt different about it,” Niskanen said. “I just think that our ability to respond, our ability to stay with it is so much better this spring. We just play.”History hasn’t been on Washington’s side in series-deciding games. During Ovechkin’s career, the Capitals are 3-7 in Game 7s – but this one is different from all the rest, just like the Capitals.“Well, of course you have dreams, you have thoughts, you have all different stuff before the year or before the playoffs and right now you’re in this position and you just don’t want to give up this opportunity,” Ovechkin said. “It’s not going to be easy. It’s not going to be like a regular-season game, OK, tomorrow we’re going to have another one and we can bounce back. (Wednesday) is going to be the biggest game in our life, maybe.”Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

TAMPA, Fla. -- The up-and-down, roller-coaster ride of the Eastern Conference finals comes to its final crescendo on Wednesday.The Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Washington Capitals at Amalie Arena in Game 7 with the winner advancing to face the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final, which starts on Monday.A Lightning victory sees the Cup Final start in Tampa while a Washington win means Vegas will host the first game.But the way in which the series between Tampa Bay and the Capitals has played out to date, determining the outcome of Game 7 might prove to be a futile effort."Lots of people say we're going to lose to Columbus," Washington captain Alex Ovechkin said. "Lots of people say we're going to lose to Pittsburgh. Lots of people said we're going to lose to Tampa. Tomorrow is the biggest probably game in my life."It's been that sort of a playoff season for the Capitals, who fell behind 0-2 to Columbus in the opening round, finally defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round and jumped on top of Tampa Bay 2-0 to start the conference finals. But the Lightning won the next three games before Washington won Game 6 on home ice to force the decisive game."I don't think anybody thought we're going to be fighting against (the) Tampa Bay Lightning for the Stanley Cup final in Game 7," Ovechkin said. "I don't think you guys (reporters) felt like you were going to be here. Probably thought you're going to be on vacation somewhere."Whichever team does fall short on Wednesday will be starting their vacation one stop short of playing for the ultimate prize.For Tampa Bay, this is familiar territory.For the third time in the past four years, the Lightning will play Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals, and the script has pretty much played out the same way.In 2015, Tampa Bay had a 3-2 series lead against the New York Rangers but fell in Game 6. In 2016, the Lightning were up 3-2 in the series to Pittsburgh but failed to close out the series in six games.Against the Rangers, the Lightning won Game 7. Against the Penguins, Tampa Bay lost the decisive game.But both of those Game 7s took place on the road. This time around, home-ice advantage belongs to the Lightning as they seek a third trip to the Stanley Cup Final in franchise history."I do like the fact that there will be 19,000 people helping us, willing us to victory," Lightning head coach Jon Cooper said. "I want our guys to enjoy the game. It's a phenomenal experience. This will be my third one in four years. You just have to remember, don't let the game become really much bigger than it is. Go out, execute, leave everything out there, see what happens."That's where some experience can come in to play.For many of the Lightning players, they have been in this situation before as the core of Tampa Bay has been pretty much intact for the past four years. Many have been through the experience, this deep in to the playoffs, together."I think Game 7 is something that everybody looks forward to, at least I do. I take pleasure in playing a Game 7. I think it's one of the most exciting moments in sports," said Lightning defenseman Anton Stralman, who has a 7-1 career record playing in Game 7. "I think you just have to embrace it, really just have fun with it. I think what it's all about. Usually if you have an open mindset, follow the game plan you set up, you are going to enjoy it. You will most of the time also have a good result."Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The San Jose Sharks and pending unrestricted free agent Evander Kane are working toward a seven-year contract extension, sources indicated to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.The deal is expected to carry an annual cap hit of $7 million, adds TSN's Bob McKenzie.The Sharks acquired Kane from the Buffalo Sabres at this year's trade deadline, parting with forward prospect Danny O'Regan and two conditional draft choices, including a conditional second-round pick in 2019. Should Kane re-sign with the Sharks, that selection will be upgraded to San Jose's first-rounder.Kane tallied 14 points in 17 regular-season contests with the Sharks before adding another five points in nine playoff appearances.The potential seven-year, $49-million pact is in line with several other wingers league-wide, including Buffalo's Kyle Okposo (seven years, $42 million) and Bobby Ryan (seven years, $50.75 million) of the Ottawa Senators.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Steve Mason shouldn't be worried about another offseason move.The Winnipeg Jets backup goaltender, who agreed a two-year, $8.2-million deal with the club last summer, enters the offseason following an injury-riddled campaign in which he lost the top job to young netminder Connor Hellebuyck.Still, there appears to be a spot for Mason in the Manitoba capital."I don't sit here and anticipate that a buyout is a course of action I would take with Steve Mason," Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff told reporters during Tuesday's season-ending press conference. "Steve Mason is a capable No. 1 goaltender in the NHL. He signed with us knowing - and we were very up front with him - that this was going to be about winning, whether it was him, or whether there was going to be competition to win."In all, Mason appeared in just 13 games this season, as he battled two concussions before later suffering a knee injury. He finished the year with just five wins and a .906 save percentage.Given Mason's heavy salary - particularly expensive given he spent the majority of the season on the bench - his future with the team was a little unclear. Adding to the uncertainty, the cap-challenged Jets have a handful of Mason's teammates up for extensions, including Hellebuyck, defensemen Jacob Trouba and Josh Morrissey, plus forwards Joel Armia and Paul Stastny.But as Cheveldayoff alluded to, the Jets can benefit from added insurance between the pipes."Steve was a real pro. I've seen a shell of our scheduled next year; you're going to need some goaltending and need some people to back things up," Cheveldayoff added. "There's a lot left for (Mason) with respect to being a No. 1 goaltender in the NHL."For those curious, a buyout of Mason would carry a $1.37-million cap penalty for each of the next two seasons, according to CapFriendly.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Lou Lamoriello clearly wasn't interested in revealing whether he did, in fact, speak to John Tavares before officially taking on his new role."When it comes to talking with players ... I will never comment about it," the New York Islanders president of hockey operations told reporters on a conference call Tuesday, according to MSG's Shannon Hogan. "(I) never have in the past and (I) won’t (now).”He did have some praise to heap on the captain, though.

The Washington Capitals shut out the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-0 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final on Monday to force a winner-take-all seventh game. Theoretically, only one goal was necessary thanks to Braden Holtby's efforts between the pipes, but Devante Smith-Pelly's third-period insurance marker gave the Caps a crucial two-goal lead they wouldn't look back on.While Smith-Pelly was credited with the goal, Chandler Stephenson did all the work to make it happen. Below, we'll break down the play, and how his hustle also prevented the Lightning from having a great scoring chance at the other end.For a full video of the goal, click here.It all started with Smith-Pelly - the eventual goal-scorer - firing the puck all the way down the ice from his own end. At this point, Braydon Coburn (left, No. 55) had a full step and a half on Stephenson (right), so beating him out for the icing call seemed like a forgone conclusion.However, thanks to his outstanding speed and will, Stephenson ended up step for step with Coburn and got his stick on the puck first to negate the icing call. Had he not done so, Washington's fourth line would've been stuck on the ice while Tampa's top unit would've presumably hopped over the boards for the offensive-zone faceoff - a huge chance to tie the game.While Stephenson was charging down the ice, Jay Beagle (No. 83) followed up the play and was first to the loose puck that Stephenson chipped into the corner. As Beagle picked up the puck, Stephenson stayed behind the net to give him an outlet down low.After receiving a pass from Beagle, Stephenson sensed pressure from Victor Hedman (No. 77), and instantly turned his body to shield the puck. It's worth noting that Smith-Pelly isn't even visible in the frame yet, although you can just barely see the tip of his stick on the right of the screen.In one motion, Stephenson spun and fired a no-look pass from his backhand into the slot where the trail guy (Smith-Pelly) was flying in. It all happened so fast that even though the puck was nearly at Smith-Pelly's stick already, goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was still hugging the left post and peaking into the corner behind him. Meanwhile, Nikita Kucherov (No. 86), was roaming in the high slot, but failed to pick up his man.As Vasilevskiy pushed across the crease to get back into position, Smith-Pelly one-timed the pass from Stephenson and beat the goaltender five-hole.Not only was this a sensational display of speed and hustle from Stephenson to beat out the icing and prevent a defensive-zone faceoff, but he also showed intelligence, poise, and vision by finding Smith-Pelly for the clutch goal.(Photos courtesy: NHL.com)Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Montreal Canadiens re-signed goaltender Antti Niemi to a one-year contract worth $950,000, the team announced Tuesday. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.Niemi's 2017-18 season got off to a turbulent start, but he really settled in after joining the Canadiens.TeamGPRec.GAASV%SOPIT30-3-07.49.7970FLA20-1-05.11.8720MTL197-5-42.46.9291Total247-9-43.12.9111The 34-year-old is expected to serve as the backup netminder behind Carey Price, while Charlie Lindgren - who is waivers exempt - will likely begin the season in the AHL.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Lou Lamoriello is officially heading back to the Tri-State Area.The former Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils general manager was named the New York Islanders' president of hockey operations Tuesday.Lamoriello will have full authority over all hockey matters with the organization.The Leafs revealed back on April 30 that the 75-year-old was leaving the club after serving as its GM for the last three seasons. Kyle Dubas was promoted to that role less than two weeks later.Tuesday's move was first reported by The Athletic's Arthur Staple on Monday. Staple also reported that Lamoriello met with Islanders captain and pending unrestricted free agent John Tavares before officially assuming his new position.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

In the weeks leading up to the 2018 NHL Draft, theScore NHL prospect writer Hannah Stuart breaks down 10 of the most notable draft-eligible prospects. The ninth edition focuses on Noah Dobson.After Noah Dobson’s breakout second season in the QMJHL, he’s continuing that level of performance at the 2018 Memorial Cup. He set up the game-winner in the Acadie-Bathurst Titan’s tournament opener and ended Sunday’s game against the Regina Pats of the WHL with four points, including a pair of goals.En route to the Titan’s QMJHL championship, Dobson was matched up against top players every night, including 2016-17 QMJHL top scorer and league MVP Vitalii Abramov. That’s a fitting follow-up to last year’s playoffs when, as a rookie, Dobson was entrusted with shutting down current Columbus Blue Jackets forward Pierre-Luc Dubois.Dobson is a coveted right-shot defender. His teammates marvel at his maturity, and he has thoroughly impressed scouts. In fact, the only North American defenseman that NHL Central Scouting ranks ahead of Dobson in the 2018 final rankings is Evan Bouchard, who sits fourth - one spot ahead.Year in reviewComing off a fairly solid rookie campaign, Dobson's offensive production significantly improved this season. He finished second among QMJHL blue-liners with 69 points, including 17 goals, up from only 26 points last season. Dobson often logs more than 30 minutes a night, and does so with the poise of a much more experienced player.He won a QMJHL championship with the Titan and is currently playing in the Memorial Cup, where his team earned a berth in the semifinal with an ugly, hard-fought win over the Pats. After a 13-point performance in the QMJHL playoffs (including three goals), Dobson has five points in two games of Memorial Cup play. No matter how this tournament ends for the Titan, his performance should solidify his status as a top-10 pick.Areas of strengthLabeling Dobson an offensive-zone threat is an understatement. He’s a solid playmaker, even in tight traffic, and has a terrific outlet pass. He often feels like he’s just a step ahead of the rest. His hockey smarts allow him to weigh the risk in a given situation and decide if it’s appropriate, and he can dictate the pace of a game. He loves to jump into the play and create opportunities off the rush.He does all this without sacrificing defense or becoming a liability in his own end. Dobson is a strong, agile skater with a first step that gets him to an excellent top speed fairly quickly, and his balance and edgework are excellent. He’s described the important elements of defense as good footwork and a good stick. Dobson uses his stick actively, cutting down shooting and passing lanes, and has high-end gap control and positioning.Areas of improvementFinding clear areas of weakness in Dobson’s game requires looking ahead and determining what might be a problem at the NHL level. He could stand to add muscle to his 6-foot-3 frame, as it would help put more power behind his shot and give him a stronger physical game overall. These things aren’t issues with his play currently, but rather areas in which you can expect him to improve over time.Scouting reports“A talented two-way defenseman that can play in all situations and stay productive. Uses his edges well and is, for the most part, a very smooth skater; however, as he gets stronger and adjusts to a more up-tempo style of hockey, he will need to work on his speed in gap-closing. Offensively, he utilizes his keen sense of awareness to be in the right spot at the right time, every time. Soft hands and a deadly shot accentuate his ability to get creative, on occasion. Rock-solid defensively, his strong positioning severely limits time and space for the opposition. All in all, a well-rounded, reliable, and consistent defenseman that can log a lot of ice time and provide his team with a stable presence on the back end.” - Curtis Joe, EliteProspects.com“Very effective two-way defenseman with good puck distribution and a strong shot from the point on the power play. He is a point producer with size who defends well and utilizes strong positioning and a good stick in the defensive zone.” - NHL Central ScoutingDid You Know?

The Toronto Maple Leafs and assistant general manager Mark Hunter mutually agreed to part ways, the team announced Tuesday.Maple Leafs president and alternate governor Brendan Shanahan said the decision followed "extensive discussions."After the news in late April that Lou Lamoriello would not return as the club's GM, Hunter and fellow assistant Kyle Dubas became the two front-runners to fill the vacancy. Toronto ultimately hired Dubas.Shanahan also confirmed that Hunter has a non-compete agreement until mid-July, meaning he can't work for another team until then, according to Joshua Clipperton of the Canadian Press.This makes sense from Toronto's perspective, considering the amount of knowledge Hunter has of the Leafs' strategy for both the draft and free agency.Hunter offered to stay on through the draft - which is a month away - but the team felt is was best to "make a clean break" given that his departure was inevitable, per Clipperton.Hunter, 55, has a wealth of experience both as a coach and an executive in the junior hockey ranks - most notably spending 12 years as owner, vice president, and GM of the OHL's London Knights before joining the Maple Leafs' front office in 2014.Given that experience in junior hockey, Hunter's primary responsibilities with the Leafs included drafting, player evaluation, and player development. Under his watch, they drafted the likes of Mitch Marner, Travis Dermott, Auston Matthews, and Timothy Liljegren, and signed undrafted European free agents such as Nikita Zaitsev and Andreas Borgman.Copyright © 2018 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.