The Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings made headlines Tuesday night by exchanging veteran forwards Jussi Jokinen and Mike Cammalleri in a trade.Both players have slid into depth roles at this stage of their careers, meaning the deal probably won't have franchise-altering repercussions. That said, there are still a few takeaways, particularly when it comes to the struggling Oilers.Self-inflicted woundsWith the Oilers currently dead last in the NHL with 38 goals for through 17 games, this trade was presumably orchestrated to address their lack of offense - a problem that wouldn't need to be solved if Peter Chiarelli hadn't traded away the majority of his team's depth.If Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle - heck, maybe even just one of them - were still in the fold, perhaps Edmonton wouldn't have felt the need to go out and add a 35-year-old who hasn't topped 70 games in a single season since 2008-09.Don't be fooled: Jokinen's better(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)While Jokinen has only produced one point to Cammalleri's seven this season, the new Kings forward brings a more complete game to the table.Cammalleri has just one goal at even strength this season, and Jokinen holds a clear advantage in several advanced metrics.JokinenStatCammalleri58.27CF%43.794.26CF% relative to teammates-8.0172.97xGF%43.7292.67PDO103.62(Stats courtesy: Corsica, all at five-on-five)Jokinen's sky-high expected goals-for percentage leads the NHL, while Cammalleri's PDO (on-ice shooting plus save percentage) doesn't appear to be sustainable, as the number generally reverts closer to 100 as the season wears on.This can't be it, right?While Tuesday's trade indicates Chiarelli knows his roster needs improved depth, adding Cammalleri can't be his only move if the Oilers want to maximize their opportunity to win this season.Relying solely on the production of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisiatl has already put the Oilers in a deep hole to begin a season in which they were pegged as Stanley Cup favorites.Edmonton has until the end of the current campaign before McDavid's salary rockets into the stratosphere. With just over $8 million in cap space available for the remainder of the season, there's an opportunity to add a significant piece or two and actually improve the roster, should Chiarelli choose to do so.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Edmonton Oilers have acquired veteran winger Mike Cammalleri from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for Jussi Jokinen, the club announced Tuesday.Both forwards joined their now-former teams in the offseason on one-year contracts, with Jokinen earning $1.1 million this season to Cammalleri's $1-million salary.Jokinen's suited up for 14 games with Edmonton and recorded one assist on an Oilers team ranked 31st in the NHL with just 38 goals for.Cammalleri, meanwhile, has three goals and four assists in 15 games this season, but has only found the net once in his last 11 contests.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Boston Bruins will be without two of their top offensive weapons for at least the next two games, as Brad Marchand and Anders Bjork have been ruled out due to injury, head coach Bruce Cassidy announced Tuesday.Both players were hurt in Saturday's loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and are not currently with the team in California for its three-game road trip.Neither player's injury has been fully disclosed, but Cassidy said Monday that both Marchand and Bjork were "nicked up," according to Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald.The duo stands to miss games against the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday and the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Ottawa Senators general manager Pierre Dorion is not expecting Clarke MacArthur to rejoin the club after failing his physical back in training camp.MacArthur, however, remains under contract through 2019-20, meaning it's possible, albeit unlikely, that he could play in the future if medically cleared."Oh, I doubt that one," Dorion said on TSN Radio 1200 in regards to whether MacArthur will play this season. "He's moved to Florida, if I'm not mistaken. And after failing that medical... You know what, if he wants to come back next year and try, we'd definitely look at it."Following a series of serious concussions, MacArthur was able to play late last season, recording three goals and six assists in 19 playoff games."Clarke was a big part of our playoff success, but I think health (and) family comes before hockey any day," Dorion added. "I couldn't be responsible for allowing him to play after doctors said that he failed his medical."MacArthur, who carries a $4.65-million cap hit, is currently listed on long-term injured reserve.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Tampa Bay Lightning added some insurance between the pipes, acquiring netminder Louis Domingue from the Arizona Coyotes, the team announced Tuesday.In return, the Lightning parted ways with veteran goaltender Michael Leighton and forward Tye McGinn.Domingue, 25, was winless through seven games with Arizona this season, as he posted an .856 save percentage and 4.33 goals-against average.His time in the desert came to a close following the Coyotes' acquisition of netminder Scott Wedgewood and Antti Raanta's return from injury.Domingue is signed through the remainder of the season at a $1.05-million cap hit.This season, Leighton and McGinn have suited up for the Lightning's minor-league affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch. McGinn played for the Coyotes during the 2014-15 campaign.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

No team lost more key players in the offseason than the Washington Capitals, and their defense has suffered as a result. In spite of this, netminder Braden Holtby continues to solidify himself as one of the game's elite goaltenders.On the back end, the Caps lost Kevin Shattenkirk and Karl Alzner in free agency, while Nate Schmidt was plucked by Vegas in the expansion draft. To top it off, reliable veteran blue-liner Matt Niskanen has played just five games due to injury.The salary cap didn't allow the Capitals to retool their blue line in free agency, and they've instead had to rely on unproven defensemen making close to the league minimum.Unknown commodities such as Christian Djoos, Madison Bowey, Taylor Chorney, and Aaron Ness have been summoned into action. The ripple effect has forced John Carlson, Dmitry Orlov, and Brooks Orpik to play more minutes than they had in recent years.As a result, the Capitals have regressed defensively - in a big way:Stat'16-'17 Caps'17-'18 CapsSA/G27.8 (4th-lowest)32.9 (10th-most)xGA/602.16 (8th-lowest)2.52 (11th-most)SCA/6026.11 (16th-most)31.02 (3rd-most)HDCA/6010.7 (10th-most)12.94 (2nd-most)SA/G = Shots against per game

Carey Price needs some more time.The Montreal Canadiens goaltender is staying off the ice for a few days as his recovery from a lower-body injury has stagnated, according to TSN's John Lu.He resumed skating last week and insists he'll soon be back in game action. Last week, coach Claude Julien made it clear it's not the same injury - an MCL sprain - that saw Price miss all but 12 games of the 2015-16 season.On Tuesday, Price indicated the injury occurred in the pregame warmup prior to a Nov. 2 game against the Minnesota Wild. He played the entire game, allowing five goals on 26 shots, and hasn't appeared in the crease since.Price originally anticipated he'd be back for Thursday's contest against the Arizona Coyotes, but his return date has been pushed back.In his absence, the Canadiens have turned to 23-year-old Charlie Lindgren, who has posted a 3-1-0 record and .964 save percentage through four games.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Montreal Canadiens claimed goaltender Antti Niemi off waivers Tuesday, the team announced.The Habs are Niemi's third team of the 2017-18 campaign. He signed a one-year deal with the Penguins in the offseason, but was placed on waivers after just three games. He then had a two-game stint with the Panthers before being placed on waivers again.His numbers this season aren't pretty. He owns a record of 0-4-0 with a 6.74 goals-against average and an .822 save percentage.The move is the result of injuries to both Carey Price and Al Montoya. With Charlie Lindgren shining in the Habs' crease, though, it's doubtful Niemi will see much time in the net.If Niemi does appear in a game for the Canadiens, he'll tie the NHL record for the most teams played for in one season by a goalie, per TSN's Kevin Gibson.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Time heals all wounds.That appears to be the case for Paul Kariya, the former Anaheim Ducks star who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on Monday.As part of the festivities, Kariya participated in Sunday's Legends Classic game. It was his first time in skates since his 2011 retirement, and it also marked the first time in many years that Kariya had come face to face with former New Jersey Devils captain Scott Stevens.Stevens delivered a devastating hit on Kariya during the 2003 playoffs that left him motionless and spawned concussion concerns.Remarkably, Kariya returned to the ice only minutes later and potted one of the biggest goals in Ducks history. Unfortunately, it's not something he recalls."I have no recollection of anything that happened before Game 6, (in) Game 6, Game 7 two days afterwards," Kariya told TSN's Michael Farber.However, bygones appear to be bygones."That's the first time I saw (Stevens)," Kariya told Eric Stephens of the Orange County Register. "Scott's a Hall of Fame player and one of the best defensemen of all time. Honored to be on the ice with him."When you see (the painful memories) and see what happened, anger isn't a strong enough word for what was going through me at that time. But, with most things, with time and perspective now it's seven years since I've retired. I don't look back."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

There's nothing like waiting until the last minute.On Tuesday, the Toronto Maple Leafs recalled forward Nikita Soshnikov from the AHL's Marlies, one day prior to when the Russian skater could exercise an opt-out clause in his contract to return to the KHL.Soshnikov, 24, sits second in Marlies scoring this year, as he's collected five goals and seven assists in 14 games. He recorded nine points in 56 games with the Maple Leafs last season.As an undrafted free agent, Soshnikov signed with Toronto in March 2015. Prior to coming to North America, he played two seasons with the KHL's Moscow Oblast Atlant, finishing the 2014-15 campaign with 32 points in 57 games.Forward Frederik Gauthier was loaned to the Marlies in place of Soshnikov.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Over the course of the 2017-18 season, theScore will run a series of interviews with former players, coaches and officials in which they recall some of the greatest moments of their career. This edition focuses on 6-foot-5 forward Peter Mahovlich, who won four Stanley Cups and was part of the star-studded Canadian team that prevailed in the 1972 Summit Series against Russia:On what he remembers from his first NHL game:The interesting part was that I was still playing junior hockey in Hamilton, and I was called into the office and the coach at the time said I'd be heading off to Boston to play in an NHL game, which was terrific.We ended up winning 1-0; I can remember Jimmy Peters scoring the goal, and I had the assist on the only goal of the game. It was quite an experience. And then, of course, the next day I was right back in Hamilton.But it was quite an experience to be in the same dressing room with Gordie Howe and Alex Delvecchio and Norm Ullman and Gary Bergman and Roger Crozier and so many other hockey players. It was a wonderful experience.On his first NHL goal:I remember I scored it against the Montreal Canadiens. But to actually remember what transpired ... I can't. Sometimes you're so excited that you sometimes can't recall the moment because you're so happy about it.For me, that's exactly what happened. It wasn't like, "Gee, I scored a lot of goals, I can't remember that one." It's that I was so excited that I just can't remember it. It's an awful thing, isn't it? (laughs)On when he knew he would stick in the NHL:I can recall that first training camp; I had played three games the year before with Detroit. I went into training camp, and things were very positive. I ended up playing a lot with Gordie Howe and Alex Delvecchio, and I was very productive. It was probably the three games the previous season that set me on the path of a professional hockey player.But with everything the way it was, it was still a six-team league at the time. Things didn't go as well as I wanted; I was in and out of the lineup, and then I got sent down to the Pittsburgh Hornets of the American Hockey League, and went on to win a Calder Cup there. So it was still a pretty exciting year for me.Things never transpired the way I wanted in my three years in Detroit. Then, of course, I got to Montreal, and things really started to happen on a positive note for me in Montreal as far as my productivity went.On being traded to the Canadiens in 1969:So I get traded to Montreal ... I go into a situation where they had just won a Stanley Cup again. So I'm thinking, "How am I going to be part of this organization when I hadn't made the playoffs in three years in Detroit?"My meeting with (Canadiens general manager) Sam Pollock, I remember it to this day. He said, "Peter, we traded for you because we felt that you could play for the Montreal Canadiens. We feel that there's something there that will flourish in Montreal." And that's exactly what happened.I got called up (from the farm team) halfway through the year, played some games with the big club, stayed with them at the end of the year ... we ended up with 92 points and still missed the playoffs. And I'm thinking, "Oh my God, here I am ... they hadn't missed the playoffs in 20 years, and I get here and they miss the playoffs." (laughs)On finishing fourth in the NHL in penalty minutes in his first full season:I think when you're trying to prove something all the time, trying to establish yourself, you're always going to get tested.At that time, my size was a positive thing for me on the ice. I was able to utilize it. And at that time, we all had what we called "the equalizer" - and that was our stick. In front of the net, the defensemen used to be able to cross-check you pretty good. And the thing was, those sticks didn't break!There was a price you had to pay when you stood in front of the net or went into the corners. And consequently, if you retaliated, you would get a penalty. And back then, the thing that we feared the most was when the referee kept saying, "Let them go." And I'd say, "Get those damned linesmen in here!"On living up to expectations as the younger brother of Frank Mahovlich:I never felt any pressure from my parents, I never felt any pressure from my brother. Other people, like writers or fans, might have wanted more from me at times, because I was Frank's brother. But I never let that bother me because I was going to be who I was no matter what. And I ended up doing OK.In my first Stanley Cup win in 1971, I think it was Game 6 ... we ended up killing penalties together. I scored a shorthanded goal; that felt tremendous at the time. Just the fact that I was able to play with my brother, to win that Stanley Cup, and then to be part of representing our country at the Summit Series, it was a tremendous thing.On his interactions with officials:The referees back then were great, because they talked to you. And you know what? Some of the things they would do or say would embarrass you, because they were right. They understood the game, they understood everybody was trying to get an edge. That's just the way it was.I really liked Frank Udvari. Bill Friday was terrific. Linesman John D'Amico was a friend of mine, we used to work hockey schools together. The bad thing about John was, anytime I would get into an altercation, John would grab me, and put me in a bear hug, and that was it. And the other guy would get a few extra shots at me, which was OK, I guess. (laughs)On how the Canadiens stayed motivated during their late-1970s dynasty:In Montreal, it was always, "What have you done for me lately?" That was led by Sam Pollock; if you ever had to talk to Sam, it didn't matter who you were ... I honestly believe that even Jean Beliveau was a little afraid of Sam Pollock. And that's a big statement; that's how much persona Mr. Pollock had.That was carried on by our coach, Scotty Bowman, who always found things to bring to the table to challenge us.Whether it was getting to first place in our division, getting to first place in the league, beating somebody else's record, the goals for, the goals against, the goals differential ... everything was always pre-planned with Scotty. "Look, our penalty killing could be better. Philadelphia is really good at penalty killing. Let's see if we can do a better job there." He always had something.On being traded out of Montreal in 1977:Things had soured between Scotty and I; there were some issues. It was a mutual thing, me moving on. I don't look back. I would have liked to stay and win more Stanley Cups, but it was time for me to move, and I felt it was the best thing for my career and my family at the time.On the time he came out of retirement for a one-game stint in 1985:I was coaching the Toledo Goaldiggers in the old International Hockey League. We were underfinanced; our budget was such that we only had 15 skaters and two goaltenders. One night we had an injury, so we were down to 14, and then we had another injury, so we were down to 13. So I said, "I'll go out and play. I'll just play defense." (laughs)Don Murdoch came out of retirement, too, and played with me. It was fun. I got to play some games (Mahovlich ended up with 14 points in 23 games). The owner, who I really liked, he didn't ask me to play, but I said, "You know what? I can do it. It will save us some salary, and help us out." And it did. And I only had three fights that year. (laughs)On his memories of the Summit Series:It's not one defining moment for me. How do you treasure a goal here or there when I can treasure the friendships every time I see these guys? That's more important to me. Every time I see Serge Savard or Yvan Cournoyer or Guy Lapointe or Phil Esposito, it's special.A group of us went over to Russia for the 45th anniversary. And here's what happened: we were supposed to go over there for Sept. 1, 2, and 3. We got a phone call asking us to postpone it to the 12th, 13th, and 14th. And this affected a few players because their plans had to be changed.The reason the Russians wanted to change it was that Vladimir Putin wanted to be involved. So we actually went to Sochi after we landed in Moscow, and we had dinner with Mr. Putin. They honored us. That series was probably more important to them than any gold medal that they ever won.The games say that we won - but they didn't lose. They also won, because everybody said they wouldn't be competitive. And we didn't know. But they were competitive. They proved it.We as a group were inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame as a team; I think we're still the only team to be inducted. In my heart, in my mind, I wish they would induct the Russian team as well. You can't be a great team unless you have a great opponent. And they were a great opponent.__________Rapid FireBest goalies he ever faced: Bernie Parent and Terry SawchukBiggest influence on him as a player: His brotherFavorite coaches of all time: Mr. Bosworth (his peewee coach), Al MacNeil, Fernie FlamanFavorite visiting arenas: Boston Garden and Chicago Stadium__________Fact FileBorn: Oct. 10, 1946, Timmins, ONDrafted: First round (2nd overall), 1963, Detroit Red WingsTeams: Detroit Red Wings (1965-69, 1979-81), Montreal Canadiens (1969-78), Pittsburgh Penguins (1977-79)Awards: Stanley Cup (1970-71, 1972-73, 1975-76, 1976-77)STATSGPGAPPIMRegular Season884288485773916Playoffs88304272134(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Other entries in this series:

While the majority of the hockey world's attention was directed at the Hall of Fame for this year's induction ceremony, a tiny two-game schedule offered some particularly impressive performances.Here are three players that stood out Monday night in the NHL:Teuvo TeravainenDeadlocked in a 1-1 tie with the Dallas Stars entering the third period, Teravainen took matters into his own hands and earned his Carolina Hurricanes a win.The 23-year-old netted a natural hat trick in just over seven minutes in the third period, and also added an assist on Carolina's first goal. With a four-point output on Monday, Teravainen now has six points in his last three games.Mark Jankowski(Photo Courtesy: Action Images)One game after he potted the first goal of his career, Jankowski solidified his case to maintain a spot in the Calgary Flames' lineup by netting two goals and adding a primary assist for the best performance of his young career.Suiting up in the middle between Sam Bennett and Jaromir Jagr, Jankowski looked dangerous all night, and could prove to be an effective solution to help alleviate some of the Flames' scoring woes.Jordan StaalWhile Teravainen was the finisher for Carolina, Staal was the set-up man, recording a selfless four assists.Three of Staal's helpers we're primary, and the veteran pivot is now up to 13 points in 16 games - putting him on an early pace to reach a career-high 66 this season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

After losing only two games in October, the New Jersey Devils firmly placed themselves on the NHL's radar as a potential up-and-comer for the 2017-18 season.Now midway through the second month of the campaign, the Devils have yet to fade, currently 11-4-2 with 24 points through 17 games. It's a point total good enough for second place in the Eastern Conference and tied for third overall.After finishing dead last in the East last season, few, if anybody, predicted the Devils would be able to amount to very much this time around, even after winning the draft lottery and adding Nico Hischier to the fold.Yet, there are the Devils, sitting atop a jumbled Metropolitan Division with a three-point advantage while holding one game at hand ahead of their nearest chasers. But how long can it last?While the Devils' record may suggest they look like a surprise contender through the early portion of the season, the underlying numbers propping up New Jersey's success look poised to crater.To illustrate why New Jersey is trending toward regression, have a look at some numbers from last season, when the Devils finished in 27th place.CategoryLeague RankCF%47.83 (27th)xGF%47.81 (26th)Scoring Chances For1529 (30th)High Danger Chances For592 (27th)Sh%6.36 (28th)Sv%0.924 (12th)PDO98.93 (24th)And so far this season:CategoryLeague RankCF%45.24 (30th)xGF%47.31 (24th)Scoring Chances For355 (20th)High Danger Chances For137 (15th)Sh%10.37 (2nd)Sv%.932 (4th)PDO103.6 (1st)(All Stats at 5-on-5, courtesy Corsica, Natural Stat Trick)(Photo Courtesy: Getty Images)Looking at the numbers, two things stand out: Goaltender Cory Schneider is bouncing back from a difficult season a year ago, and Devils shooters are converting their chances regularly. However, New Jersey isn't generating enough of those chances for this trend to sustain itself.Teams with similar shooting percentages to New Jersey this season - Toronto, Tampa Bay, Winnipeg, among others - all have elite shooting talent throughout their respective lineups, something the Devils lack. Taylor Hall is near his career average at 10.7 percent for the season, but nine other skaters on the roster are at or above that threshold so far, including Brian Gibbons (eight goals, 33.3 percent), Miles Wood (six goals, 17.3 percent), and rookie Jesper Bratt (five goals, 17.2 percent). That's not elite shooting talent, and it's not going to last.On the defensive side of things, it doesn't get much better. In terms of shot suppression, New Jersey has given up the second-most attempts per 60 minutes (62.54), and more than half of those attempts get through to the goal, as the Devils rank 30th of 31 teams with 35.5 shots allowed per contest.It seems every season, one particular team tends to overachieve, riding a high shooting percentage to unpredictable success. Sometimes - as in the case of the 2014 Colorado Avalanche - the wave can carry a team all the way to the playoffs. But in all cases like New Jersey is currently demonstrating, luck, eventually, runs out.Given how Schneider has performed so far - a .922 save percentage through 12 starts - the Devils' unforeseen fortune may carry on a little longer, but labeling this unit as one that's much improved, or one destined to contend, appears to be an illusion.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

With each passing day, the NHL becomes increasingly a young man's game. Some of the game's best players are barely old enough to buy a drink, but that isn't stopping them from taking the league by storm.This trend is especially evident when you take a look at Tampa Bay Lightning goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy and some of the other young Russian-born players making their mark in NHL rinks.Let's take a quick look into the latest crop of young Russian stars.Pavel Buchnevich, RW - New York Rangers(Photo courtesy: Action Images)Size, speed, and skill, this 22-year-old has it all. At 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, Buchnevich is a physical force who can shoot the puck with the best of them.Across the first 18 games of the season, the winger has impressive numbers while playing on the Rangers' top line with Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad.Buchnevich is just starting to scratch the surface of his offensive potential, but he already has eight goals and seven assists this season. Evgenii Dadonov, RW - Florida Panthers(Photo courtesy: Action Images)A longstanding fixture in KHL arenas, Dadonov is making a seemingly seamless transition to the NHL's smaller rinks.At 28 years old, Dadonov might fall out of the "young" category, but that doesn't change the fact the NHL rookie can still produce. Last season for SKA St. Petersburg, Dadonov finished fifth in KHL scoring with 66 points. And while the top five might be a tall ask this year for the diminutive winger (5-foot-11, 185 pounds), Dadonov's slick hands make up for what he lacks in size.Through 16 games for the Panthers, Dadonov has impressed, sitting fourth in team scoring with seven goals and nine assists. Vladislav Namestnikov, C/W - Tampa Bay LightningLightning general manager Steve Yzerman's patience with the 24-year-old sniper is paying off in spades.The high-flying Lightning sit atop the Eastern Conference with 30 points, and with Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos leading the charge, Namestnikov's solid start has mostly gone overlooked.(Photo courtesy: Action Images)Sure, fans in Tampa and more dedicated hockey circles know who he is, especially after he suited up for Russia at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, but Namestnikov has spent most of his career under the radar - until now.In addition to contributing offensively (nine goals, 10 assists this season), the talented natural center plays a strong two-way game while also possessing the ability to play the wing. Nikita Zaitsev, D - Toronto Maple Leafs(Photo courtesy: Action Images)Similar to Dadonov, Zaitsev had a lengthy career in his homeland before making the jump across the pond, playing in seven KHL seasons.Another member of Russia's 2016 World Cup squad, the 26-year-old has cemented himself as a top-four NHL defenseman while carving out a key contributing role on Toronto's blue line.Logging heavy minutes, playing special teams, or chipping in with a timely goal, Zaitsev really can do it all.Ivan Provorov, D - Philadelphia Flyers(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)The youngest member of the group at only 20, Provorov is a gifted rearguard who can be a difference-maker at both ends of the ice.At 6-foot-1, 201 pounds, the former seventh overall pick moves extremely well for a bigger guy, while also being able to contribute offensively.The former CHL Defenseman of the Year has 38 points across his first 99 NHL games, and stands to be a key piece of the Flyers' defensive future. Andrei Vasilevskiy, G - Tampa Bay LightningThe inspiration for this piece has also been a revelation for the Lightning, as Vasilevskiy sits near the top of most goaltending categories, including wins (13) and save percentage (.930).Another result of Yzerman's zen-like patience, Vasilevskiy is finally Tampa's uncontested No. 1, and let's just say, he looks like he should've been for quite some time.A sparkling 13-1-1 record has the 23-year-old in early Vezina Trophy conversations.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

When you start the season 14-2-2, you've earned the right to be called Stanley Cup favorites. Such is the case with the Tampa Bay Lightning, who have earned 30 of a possible 36 points to begin the campaign.That part makes sense.What is more curious, however, is that Las Vegas oddsmakers have listed the Pittsburgh Penguins as the second favorite along with the Toronto Maple Leafs.The Penguins are 9-7-3 and play awful away from home, so to be sitting as the second favorites almost a quarter into the year doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But, then again, the club still does employ the services of a couple of guys named Sid and Geno, so we really shouldn't be all that shocked that Pittsburgh is among those currently favored to take home Lord Stanley's mug.Here is the complete list of updated odds for 2018 Stanley Cup winner. Hedge your bets accordingly:TeamOpening OddsCurrent OddsTampa Bay Lightning10/16/1Pittsburgh Penguins8/110/1Toronto Maple Leafs14/110/1Dallas Stars14/112/1Los Angeles Kings20/112/1St. Louis Blues30/112/1Edmonton Oilers10/114/1Nashville Predators14/114/1Anaheim Ducks14/116/1Washington Capitals10/120/1Chicago Blackhawks12/120/1Minnesota Wild14/120/1Columbus Blue Jackets20/120/1San Jose Sharks20/120/1Ottawa Senators30/120/1New York Rangers14/125/1Winnipeg Jets40/125/1Montreal Canadiens14/130/1Calgary Flames30/130/1New York Islanders40/140/1New Jersey Devils100/140/1Boston Bruins30/150/1Philadelphia Flyers40/150/1Carolina Hurricanes60/150/1Vegas Golden Knights200/160/1Vancouver Canucks100/180/1Florida Panthers40/1100/1Buffalo Sabres60/1100/1Detroit Red Wings100/1100/1Colorado Avalanche100/11000/1Arizona Coyotes100/11000/1(Odds courtesy: Westgate Superbook)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Over the last handful of years there have been some constants with the Boston Bruins: Patrice Bergeron will win faceoffs, Brad Marchand will piss off the opposition, and Tuukka Rask will pester opposing shooters.For the most part, this still remains the case today, albeit with one asterisk; Rask has not been the stellar goaltender that fans have come to expect.Since collecting the Vezina Trophy during the 2013-14 campaign, Rask's play has been quietly declining. He remains a steady option for the Bruins and doesn't deserve to be run out of town, but many of the underlying numbers are quite telling.Since being named the league's top goaltender three seasons ago, Rask has put up a respectable 105-69-28 record in 210 games, but claims a save percentage of .917 and a goals-against average of 2.39. Those totals are just the 22nd- and 18th-best, respectively, among all goaltenders to play at least 50 games - fair, but not elite. His even-strength save percentage over that time sits at .923, good enough for only the 26th spot.Of course, there is the quality of shots Rask has faced over the last three years. Once again, the numbers are alarming.CategoryStat (Rank)LDSV%98.41 (8th)LDSA2 331 (2nd)MDSV%91.43 (45th)MDSA1 482 (2nd)HDSV%75.62 (56th)HDSA730 (12th)Among the 60 goalies to play at least 2,500 minutes at 5-on-5.Here you can see Rask has faced the second-most low-danger and mid-danger shots among qualified goalies, but while his low-danger save percentage ranks high, the better the quality of chances, the lower Rask ranks - much lower.Among all 60 goalies to play at least 2,500 minutes Rask has the 45th- and 56th- ranked mid-danger and high-danger save percentages at 5-on-5, respectively.What makes these numbers so troublesome is how they compare to the three-year span from 2011-12 to the 2013-14 campaign.During those three years, Rask boasted the top save percentage and even-strength save percentage at .929 and .938 marks, respectively, while also accumulating a 2.03 goals-against average, good enough for third overall.The shot-quality metrics were also much more in his favor during that time.CategoryStat (Rank)LDSV%97.96 (21st)LDSA1 326 (17th)MDSV%92.03 (26th)MDSA816 (23rd)HDSV%84 (2nd)HDSA425 (26th)Among the 47 goalies to play at least 2,500 minutes at 5-on-5.What's most startling here is that Rask - unlike in recent years - actually thrived in high-danger situations, stopping the second-highest percentage of high-danger shots in the league.It's worth noting that Rask faced far fewer shots against across the board during this time, which is due in part to the fact Tim Thomas played the majority of games during the 2011-12 season.All things considered, it's quite evident that Rask has seen a drop in his play. That being said, the Bruins are no longer the team they once were. Zdeno Chara has begun to show his age, the team's defense corps is not nearly as strong, and overall, the team no longer thrives playing a defensive brand of hockey.All of this can impact Rask's play, but it can't explain it all. This season, Rask is off to a 3-6-2 start in 11 games, owning a 2.79 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage. Consequently, the Bruins sit just four points above the Eastern Conference basement.At just 30 years old, Rask should not be seeing this type of regression solely due to aging. He remains under contract for the next three seasons and will make $7 million per year; that's elite money for a goaltender that no longer should be considered as such.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Some heavy lifting has earned Minnesota Wild forward Jason Zucker first star of the week honors.The 25-year-old paced the league in scoring with six goals and seven points in four games, including his first career hat trick to help his club earn a split on its Eastern road trip. Zucker has been a lone wolf in the Wild's goal-scoring department over the last three games, tallying the team's last six goals.Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov earned yet another weekly star honor after recording two goals and five assists in three games. He continues to lead the league with 16 goals. His strong showing also helped him and forward Steven Stamkos become the first teammates since the 2005-06 season to reach the 30-point mark before their club's 20th game of the year.Washington Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby rounds out the three stars after going a perfect 3-0-0 with a .952 save percentage and a 1.27 goals-against average. The week included a 4-1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins that saw the 28-year-old become the second-fastest goalie in NHL history to record 200 wins.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The Ottawa Senators have activated forward Bobby Ryan and defenseman Mark Borowiecki from injured reserve, the club announced Monday.Ryan will be reinserted into the lineup Thursday when the Sens take on the Pittsburgh Penguins, according to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun.

The following five players have been counted on more than ever before this season, and all five have risen to the occasion. Here's a look at how they've each become invaluable members of their respective teams.John Carlson, CapitalsHeading into Sunday's games, Carlson was the NHL's average time on ice (ATOI) leader, having played an astounding 27:13 per night - nearly five more minutes than his career average. Washington's offseason departures of defensemen Kevin Shattenkirk, Karl Alzner, and Nate Schmidt have forced Carlson to step up, and he's delivered.The 27-year-old is on pace for a career-high 62 points and has the second-best giveaway-takeaway ratio of his career. In the midst of a contract season, Carlson is set for a huge payday if he can keep up this pace.Anze Kopitar, KingsKopitar already has a Selke, a Byng, and two Stanley Cups, but this year he's playing like he wants a Hart Trophy. He's also averaging a career-high 22:21 time on ice, second most among NHL forwards.With the Kings' leading goal-scorer from a year ago, Jeff Carter, having only played six games due to injury, Kopitar has picked up the slack. Despite being a playmaker throughout most of his career, he's on pace for his first 40-goal season.Sean Couturier, FlyersSeven years into his NHL career, Couturier is finally showing the offensive side of his game that put him into the discussion to be chosen first overall at the 2011 NHL Draft.Used primarily as a shutdown center prior to this season, Couturier vaulted to the top of the Flyers' depth chart when Claude Giroux shifted from center to left wing. While playing on a line with Giroux and Jakub Voracek, Couturier has amassed 10 goals and nine assists. He's never scored more than 15 goals or reached 40 points in a season.Deryk Engelland, Golden KnightsThere's late bloomers, and then there's Deryk Engelland. The 35-year-old blue-liner's ATOI of 19:12 is nearly four minutes more than his career average. For the bulk of his career, his hands were primarily used for throwing haymakers, but this year he's used them to collect nine points through 16 games - just eight points shy of his career high.As a longtime resident of Las Vegas, perhaps Engelland just needed to play a bit closer to home to find his offensive touch. While it's doubtful he maintains this pace, his success has nonetheless been a great story in the early going.Vladislav Namestnikov, LightningSteven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov have been making all the headlines, but the third member of the NHL's most potent line is quietly enjoying a huge breakout season.Namestnikov is playing over four more minutes per night than his career average, and has made good use of the extra time, tallying eight goals and 10 assists in 17 games. Surely, he wouldn't have these numbers if not for his stud linemates, but the leaps he's made in his game can't be overlooked.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Finland and Russia came out on top in a pair of tournaments in preparation for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.On Sunday, Team Finland defeated Team Canada to secure its third victory in as many games at the Karjala Cup to finish with a 3-0 showing.Mika Pyorala, who spent the 2009-10 season with the Philadelphia Flyers, was Finland's top scorer, picking up four points.Mikhail Grigorenko, a former first-round pick of the Buffalo Sabres, laced up for Team Russia and led the tournament with six points. Team Canada's top scorer was Gilbert Brule, who last appeared in the NHL with the Arizona Coyotes. Brule finished with two points.Team Canada's roster included a handful of former NHLers, including Wojtek Wolski and Mason Raymond.Here's how the final standings shook out:RankTeamW OTW OTL LPts1Finland300092Russia200163Sweden200164Canada100235Czech Republic100236Switzerland00030Meanwhile, Team Russia took the top spot in the four-team Deutschland Cup, posting a perfect record over three games.Artyom Fyodorov, who suits up for the KHL's Salavat Yulaev Ufa, led the tournament with six points. Mark Arcobello, who previously played for five NHL squads, led the Americans with two points in three games.Team USA, whose lineup featured former Sabres captain Brian Gionta, went winless in the tournament, losing its final game to Germany on Sunday.Rank Team W OTW OTL L Pts1Russia300092Slovakia200163Germany100234United States00030As the Winter Olympics draw nearer, the competing nations will continue to construct their final rosters over the coming months.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

For Edmonton Oilers forward Jesse Puljujarvi, the 2017-18 season truly began Friday afternoon.On the back of the unfortunate news that Anton Slepyshev was placed on injured reserve, the Oilers called up their prized 2016 first-round selection from the Bakersfield Condors.For Puljujarvi, his promotion to the big club came in the midst of a questionable second professional season in North America, one that has seen him post just one goal and five points in 10 AHL games.Last season, Puljujarvi tallied one goal - scored in the first game of the season - and eight points in 28 games with the Oilers before being sent down to the Condors in January for the remainder of the campaign.Puljujarvi went the remainder of the year notching a respectable 12 goals and 28 points in 39 games. However, with a dip in production to begin his second stint in the AHL, it's clear there remains some skepticism regarding the 19-year-old's game."I think the talent is OK, but you get better by finding open spots, working hard," Mike Griffith of the Bakersfield Californian told theScore. "If he's all everyone wants him to be, I would think he would find a way to be dominant. How much is mental? I don't know. I think last year he probably was a little mentally burnt out and stuff. His numbers were OK last year, but they weren’t 'wow this is the next big thing.'"(Photo courtesy: Action Images)The call-up also comes at an interesting time for the Oilers. After a dreadful start to the season, the team had won three of four games prior to Saturday, but had only averaged two goals per game over that span.It's the lack of offense that influenced the decision, and head coach Todd McLellan insists Puljujarvi will be given a chance to make an impact. Playing alongside Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Milan Lucic, the hope is he can aid the team with what historically has been his biggest strength - creating offense."We'll likely play him in the top six and we look for his shot and ability to score," McLellan said Friday, according to Paul Gazzola and Chris Wescott of EdmontonOilers.com. "We'll see if he's been able to work on some of the things we asked him to defensively and his checking skills."Through the first month and a half of the season, all signs suggest Puljujarvi has taken the Oilers' constructive criticism to heart, making improvements to his overall game."I think his wall play has improved, but from last year it almost had to, there was nothing but going up," said Griffith. "He's a big guy, but I don't think he ever battled that hard on the wall last year. I think his wall play has certainly improved this year."This was also quite evident Saturday afternoon in Puljujarvi's first game since being called up. He tallied one of the Oilers' two goals in a 4-2 loss to the New York Rangers, finishing with five shots and two hits, recording 15:37 of ice time.So, while his offensive numbers in the AHL may not have been great to begin the year, it is evident Puljujarvi has developed his overall skill set. Griffith notes that Oilers general manager Peter Chiarelli has also been impressed with what he's seen out of the Fin this season.Meanwhile, it's worth observing that a certain Oilers star faced similar hardships before becoming a mainstay in the lineup.(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)After being plucked third overall in 2014, Leon Draisaitl was sent down to the Western Hockey League after recording just two goals and nine points in 37 games with the Oilers.The following season he started with the Condors, tallying just one goal and one assist in six games before being recalled by the club after an injury to Jordan Eberle. He made an immediate impact - remaining with the club - finishing the year with 19 goals and 51 points in 72 games. The rest is history."If I can make a comparison, he's (Puljujarvi) been here a lot longer than Draisiatl's six or seven games," said Griffith. "He (Draisaitl) had a definite 'wow' factor and he only got called up because of injuries. They weren’t planning to call him or (Darnell) Nurse up then. That was the pre-change of all the hierarchy there in Edmonton too and those guys were supposed to be down there probably until December or something, but there was injuries and whatnot and boom, never to come back."For Puljujarvi, it's now time for him to follow in the footsteps of Draisaitl. On a team many have coined potential Stanley Cup favorites, there will only be so much time allotted for players to get up to speed and get the hang of things.Puljujarvi has been gifted a rare and sizable opportunity to show he can still be the same dynamic player who turned heads during the 2016 World Junior Championship. On Saturday he made a great first impression in his return, but as coaches will tell you, you're only as good as your next game. It will be up to Puljujarvi to maintain his strong play if he plans to permanently cement his spot with the big club.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

What was once a weakness might now be one of the Nashville Predators' most lethal aspects of their lineup.Prior to the blockbuster trade that saw Matt Duchene shipped to the Ottawa Senators and Kyle Turris dealt to the Predators, Nashville had been a club incredibly thin down the middle of the ice.While the club boasts Ryan Johansen - who oddly enough is still searching for his first goal of the season - the Predators have been missing a second centerman who can entice fear into the opposition.That is until now. With Turris now in the fold, the Predators can ice one of the better one-two punches at center in the league and can now dress a more well-balanced forwards corps.Prior to the Turris deal - and due to the injury of Nick Bonino that has limited him to just five games - the Predators had been forced to roll with Calle Jarnkrok, Colton Sissons, and Frederick Gaudreau down the middle. And while the three are surely serviceable options, they don't compare to Turris.Here is how the four have fared since the start of last season:Player GP Goals Points FO%Turris90316653.8Jarnkrok97183849.9Sissons73101453.5Gaudreau190344.3Suggesting that Turris is the more lethal offensive option between the three is quite obvious even without looking at the numbers, but the stats illustrate just how much better he is. In fact, Turris has tallied more goals and points than the other three combined.On Saturday night Turris played his first game with the Predators and made an immediate impact, scoring his first goal with the team and adding an assist while playing 21:38 of ice time - the second-most of any Predators forward.Turris' inclusion into the lineup allowed head coach Peter Laviollette to - on top of dressing a stronger top-six forward group - ice a better second power-play unit. Turris centered the club's second unit along with Kevin Fiala, Craig Smith, Viktor Arvidsson, and Mattias Ekholm.Additionally, Bonino has been skating with the club and appears to be close to making his return to the lineup. When he finally returns, the Predators will have even more strength down the middle.And as general manager David Poile suggested following the Turris trade, Bonino could be slotted on the wing of the Predators' second or third line when he returns, according to Thomas Willis of NashvillePredators.com. It's another sign of the versatility Turris gives the team. Meanwhile, it gives the potential to house a mighty top-nine with Johansen, Turris, and Bonino at center.The acquisition of Turris has completely changed the complexion of the Predators' offense, and should instill a fear in opponents going forward that simply didn't exist a week ago.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

On Monday, the Hockey Hall of Fame will officially enshrine Dave Andreychuk, Paul Kariya, Mark Recchi, and Teemu Selanne into hockey history.While this year's class is made up of worthy recipients, it's never too early to consider who could follow their lead in 2018:Martin BrodeurA slam dunk for induction into the Hall in his first year of eligibility, the iconic New Jersey Devils netminder brings a host of accolades to the table.A three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Devils, Brodeur ranks first all-time in NHL wins with an astonishing 691 victories to his credit, and also tops the charts with 125 shutouts. He was a winner on the international stage as well, guiding Team Canada to its first Olympic gold in 50 years in 2002.The Calder Trophy winner in 1994, a mantle full of awards followed over the course of Brodeur's career, including four Vezinas and five Jennings.Alexander MogilnyIn 1989, Mogilny became the first Soviet player to defect to the NHL, blazing the trail for the many Russians who followed in his footsteps, including Sergei Fedorov, Pavel Bure, and Sergei Zubov.Mogilny made his NHL debut with the Buffalo Sabres that same season, finishing his freshman year with 43 points in 65 games. Three years later, he potted 76 goals in a single campaign, a total that had only been seen by four players in league history.Mogilny won the Stanley Cup with New Jersey in 2000, and retired as a member of the Devils four years later. He sits third all-time in NHL scoring among Russians, trailing only Fedorov and Alex Ovechkin.Jeremy RoenickMaking his NHL debut with Chicago in 1988, Roenick brought a different brand of hockey to the Blackhawks, mixing an exciting combination of skill and grit.It was an early preview of the career that followed for the budding power forward, one that included stops with the Arizona Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks.In 2007, while with the Sharks, Roenick became only the third American-born player to score 500 NHL goals, potting his 500th against his former club, the Coyotes. Roenick, who announced his retirement in 2009, racked up 1,216 points over his career, good for third among U.S.-born NHLers.Martin St. LouisNever drafted into the NHL, the pint-sized St. Louis was determined to make the most of his career in an era that favored size over skill.The early goings were tough. St. Louis struggled through his first two years with the Calgary Flames. But, after joining the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2000, not only did St. Louis turn around his own career, but the franchise as well, as he led the Lightning to the Stanley Cup in 2004.St. Louis wrapped that campaign with a league-leading 94 points, as he was recognized as the Hart Trophy and Lester B. Pearson Award (now known as the Ted Lindsay Award) winner. He won his second Art Ross as a member of the Lightning in 2012-13, finishing the lockout-shortened season with 60 points in 48 games.(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Another Saturday, another wildly busy night across the NHL.With 12 games spread across the schedule, there's plenty to unpack, so let's get started and take a look at five takeaways from Saturday's action.Leafs ace huge test without MatthewsThe Toronto Maple Leafs played their third consecutive game without their best player, taking a 4-1 decision over the Boston Bruins.The victory was Toronto's fourth in a row overall, concluding a massive bounceback week after a disastrous road trip through California and St. Louis. With six points in the bank without Matthews, and an additional four days off until their next game, it appears the Maple Leafs have averted disaster in grand fashion.Karlsson in a class of his own(Photo Courtesy: Getty Images)Perhaps it was because he was playing in his home country, or maybe it's just because he's superhuman, but Erik Karlsson continues to dazzle early in his 2017-18 season.Karlsson recorded two assists in Saturday's win over Colorado in Sweden, and now paces all blue-liners with 16 assists - and now sits second in points for a defenseman - despite missing the first five games of the season.DeBrincat shows he's worthy of a bigger roleThe Chicago Blackhawks snapped two-game skid Saturday with an overtime victory in Carolina, thanks in large part to rookie Alex DeBrincat, who scored two goals and set up the game-winner.DeBrincat now has 10 points in his first 17 NHL games, though is averaging more ice time than only four Blackhawks forwards. For a team that's been struggling to produce goals, maybe it's time to give the kid a chance.Turris shines in Predators debut(Photo Courtesy: Action Images)If his debut was any indicator, it appears Kyle Turris will fit in just fine with the Nashville Predators.In a Stanley Cup rematch against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Preds' new addition scored his first goal in his new digs and later added a primary assist. It was clear head coach Peter Laviolette trusts him as well, as Turris ranked second among all Nashville forwards with 21:38 time played.Lindgren has yet another huge nightIf it weren't for Charlie Lindgren, the loss of Carey Price would be a lot tougher to handle for Montreal Canadiens fans.That's not to say there's a goalie controversy brewing once Price returns, but the rookie netminder has filled in more than admirably in his absence. Saturday's 34-save effort brought Lindgren to 3-1 in four starts with a save precentage of .964 and a 1.24 GAA.Lindgren stole two points on a night where the Canadiens were outplayed by the basement-dwelling Sabres, so if it weren't for him, things could be a lot worse in Montreal.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Everyone in Montreal take a deep breath - your team is winning games once again, and a lot of that has to do with captain Max Pacioretty.Patches started the campaign on one of the worst scoring droughts of his 10-year career, notching only one goal across the team's first eight games. During that same time frame, the Canadiens went a miserable 1-7 while struggling to put the puck in the back of the net.Fast forward 10 games, and Montreal has seen its season go from bleak to blossoming - and the Habs can look no further than their streaking captain for the team's turnaround.Including his two-point performance Saturday night against the Buffalo Sabres, which included his 10th overtime goal of his career, Pacioretty now has 11 points in his last 10 contests.

The Montreal Canadiens' goaltending depth is about to be tested even more than it has been in the absence of Carey Price.Al Montoya is out indefinitely as he recovers from a concussion, the club announced Saturday night.The 32-year-old took a Dustin Byfuglien slap shot to the mask in last Saturday's win over the Winnipeg Jets.

It really could have been much worse for Jimmy Vesey.The New York Rangers forward posted a pair of eyebrow-raising photos after Saturday's game against the Edmonton Oilers, in which he took the boot of Zack Kassian's skate to the face.

The Vancouver Canucks hope to put pen to paper with the man in charge.Through 16 games this season, the Canucks have an 8-6-2 record and 18 points, good for third place in the Pacific. That performance seems to sit well with owner Francesco Aquilini, and could mean rewarding general manager Jim Benning with a contract extension."I'm optimistic we're going to come to an agreement with him," Aquilini told Sportsnet 650, per Ed Willes of The Province.Following a campaign in which the Canucks finished with the league's second-worst showing - ahead of only the Colorado Avalanche - it's been a year of renewal in Vancouver.Rookie Brock Boeser leads the team in scoring, while the Canucks are also getting key contributions from offseason additions Thomas Vanek, Michael Del Zotto, and goaltender Anders Nilsson, among others.As for Benning, who entered the season in the final year of his contract, he remains focused on the task at hand."I'm more concerned about trying to change the culture of the group. Since I took the job, we've been trying to rebuild the organization," Benning said. "It's something that doesn't happen overnight. Kids take time."Benning was named Canucks GM in April 2014, following a seven-year run as assistant GM of the Boston Bruins.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

A victory over the Buffalo Sabres Friday saw Roberto Luongo pass Curtis Joseph for sole possession of fourth place on the NHL's all-time wins list.It's the latest mark in a long-running career that began with the New York Islanders in 1999 and sees Luongo continue his ascent on three all-time greats - two Hall of Famers, with the third (Brodeur) a shoo-in for enshrinement once eligible in 2018.RankGoalieGPWinsCupsVezinasJennings1Martin Brodeur12666913452Patrick Roy10295514353Ed Belfour9634841244Roberto Luongo973455001But the feat also begs whether Luongo deserves similar recognition down the road. While he has had plenty of success finding the win column, Luongo hasn't cleaned up in individual accolades, especially compared to the three he trails.Luongo has never won the Stanley Cup - his Vancouver Canucks fell to the Boston Bruins in seven games in 2011 - nor has he picked up any other trophies, save for a William M. Jennings win in 2010-11, awarded to the netminder who allows the fewest goals against.That season, Luongo was a wall for the Canucks, posting a 38-15-7 showing through 60 games, alongside a .928 save percentage, and 2.11 goals-against average, as Vancouver appeared in its first Stanley Cup Final since 1994.However, it doesn't bode well for Luongo that Joseph - who became eligible for induction in 2012 - isn't a Hall of Famer. Joseph never won the Stanley Cup, nor any major awards either, and he secured his 454 wins in fewer appearances than Luongo, doing so in an era that largely did not include the shootout.Also working against Luongo is that the three goaltenders he trails also picked up other awards along the way. Belfour and Brodeur both took home the Calder Trophy in their respective freshmen seasons, while Roy was named the playoff MVP during three of the four occasions he hoisted the Stanley Cup.Still, while Luongo hasn't found the championship circle in the NHL, he draws some parallels on the international stage. Luongo has been a top performer with Team Canada, securing five first-place finishes, including gold medals in the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics.Most importantly, though, is that he still has time. Luongo should slide into third in wins in the coming months and - given the 38-year-old is under contract until 2022, along with the parity in the NHL - there's no reason to rule out a Stanley Cup, even for Luongo and the Panthers.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Buffalo Sabres forward Benoit Pouliot will receive no supplemental discipline for his hit on Florida Panthers defenseman Keith Yandle, the NHL Department of Player Safety announced.Following their hearing with Pouliot, Player Safety noted that further angles of the hit showed Yandle's head was not the main point of contact as had been previously believed.The news means Pouliot will be available to the Sabres when they take on the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday night.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Vadim Shipachyov is happy to be home.A one-time prized free-agent signing by the expansion Vegas Golden Knights, the Russian forward retired from the NHL on Thursday after his short stint in North America barely got off the ground."The promises which I was given in America didn't come off, but everything works out for the best," Shipachyov told the KHL. "A lot of other SKA players who are here now have gone down this route, it's probably the correct strategy."Now I know that Russian players should think 10 times before leaving for abroad, it's different from what the clubs and agents tell you."In all, Shipachyov suited up for three games with the Golden Knights, picking up one point. He was later assigned to the Chicago Wolves, but refused to suit up for the minor-league team, and instead opted for a return to Russia.On Saturday, Shipachyov inked a one-year deal with the KHL's St. Petersburg SKA, where he played the past four seasons prior to drawing NHL interest.St. Petersburg is the defending Gagarin Cup champion whose lineup includes former NHLers Ilya Kovalchuk and Pavel Datsyuk. Shipachyov was a part of last year's championship squad, as he was in 2015, and his return could further spark the first-place KHL club that has won 23 of its 31 games.Shipachyov, 30, finished second in SKA scoring last season - just two points behind Kovalchuk - tallying 76 points in 50 games. He is disappointed he couldn't replicate that success in the NHL, but is happy to be back in familiar surroundings."Before the season's start, I was told by the general manager that they need to send a player to the AHL, and I am that man," Shipachyov stated. "He said for me to help them in order to trade defensemen, and then I will make my debut."Face to face I was told one thing, but when it came to hockey, the story changed ... However, even a negative experience helps you appreciate how things worked in St. Petersburg."Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Buffalo Sabres forward Benoit Pouliot will have a hearing for an illegal check to the head on Florida Panthers defenseman Keith Yandle, the NHL Department of Player Safety announced on Saturday.The incident in question took place during Friday night's contest after Pouliot caught Yandle with a hit behind the Panthers' goal. There was no penalty called on the play.

Vadim Shipachyov has returned to his old stomping grounds.The Russian forward has signed a one-year contract with St. Petersburg SKA of the KHL, where he spent the previous four seasons prior to joining the Vegas Golden Knights.Shipachyov, 30, retired from the NHL on Thursday, closing the door on his short stint in North America. The move allowed the Golden Knights to avoid exposing him to waivers and risk losing him to another NHL club.It also means his two-year, $9-million contract is removed from the team's salary cap, minus a portion of his $2-million signing bonus. Vegas retains Shipachyov's NHL rights until age 35.Shipachyov's time in the NHL came to a close after his refusal to suit up for the Golden Knights' minor-league affiliate, the Chicago Wolves.In all, Shipachyov appeared in three games with the Golden Knights, potting one goal. He collected 76 points in 50 games with St. Petersburg last season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Over recent seasons, the Dallas Stars had become predictable. Their high-powered attack could break any game open, but a porous defensive structure and replacement-level goaltending often outweighed the club's offensive potency.So, with that in mind, management made it their mission over the offseason to undergo major changes. Ken Hitchcock replaced Lindy Ruff behind the bench, while goaltender Ben Bishop was brought in to solidify the crease. Add in the free-agent acquisitions of Alexander Radulov and Martin Hanzal, and the Stars' supporting cast around the Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin-based nucleus had undergone a complete overhaul.Any team to endure such drastic change is destined to meet an adjustment period, and while the Stars haven't made too much noise in the standings early on in the 2017-18 season, Dallas is fresh off a 5-0 thrashing of the Islanders on Friday night, and is 6-4 in their last 10 games. It appears the Stars are getting more comfortable with their new system, and looking at the improvements they've made in their defensive zone early on - a complete 180 - this Dallas team looks ready to erase prior narratives.Here's a look at some of Dallas' numbers in 2016-17:CategoryLeague RankCA/6058.08 (25th)CF%50.08 (17th)XGA/602.45 (27th)Goals Against260 (29th)PK%73.9 (30th)And this season:CategoryLeague RankCA/6053.74 (4th)CF%51.76 (8th)XGA/602.15 (5th)Goals Against43 (11th)PK%86.5 (4th)(All stats at 5-on-5, Courtesy: Corsica)Looking at this, it's clear Hitchcock, who has always promoted a strong defense, has implemented a system that has the Stars allowing much fewer shot attempts, ultimately leading to fewer expected goals against and subsequently affording the offense added opportunities to control the puck more frequently, which, of course, is all a good thing.One month into the new regime, Dallas' big guns are predictably still firing at impressive clips. Through 16 contests, both Benn and Seguin have averaged a point per game, while defenseman John Klingberg and newcomer Radulov, have 15 and 14 respectively.Apart from two fruitless playoff runs, the Stars' potential as a team in the Benn-Seguin era had largely been wasted by an inability to properly fix their biggest flaw, but after finally making significant, and necessary changes across the organization, Dallas looks poised to write a new chapter as a complete unit, one that's ready to compete.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Washington Capitals netminder Braden Holtby became the second fastest goaltender in NHL history to record 200 wins with a 4-1 victory Friday over the Pittsburgh Penguins, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.Holtby achieved the milestone in just 319 games, trailing only Montreal Canadiens legend Ken Dryden, who reached the mark in just 309 games.Holtby has led the league in wins each of the past two years, and is now 9-3-0 with a .924 save percentage and a 2.48 goals-against average this season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

If the Maple Leafs come through with a victory on Saturday in Boston, they'll have gone 3-0 without Auston Matthews in the lineup.Anyone who watched the Leafs during the previous seven games - in which their only two wins came against a depleted Ducks squad and a shootout win over an expansion team - would have told you that losing their most dynamic and consistent player for the next three games would have been catastrophic.While many Leafs have stepped up the past two games in Matthews' absence (and will need to do so again on Saturday), perhaps nobody has proved to be more valuable than veteran Patrick Marleau.When the Leafs handed Marleau a three-year, $18.75-million contract in the offseason, they signed him to play the wing, just as he had done throughout the back nine of his career. However, with their No. 1 center out, Marleau has shifted back to his natural position, and there's good chance the Leafs wouldn't be 2-0 without Matthews if it weren't for his willingness to do so.Not only does Marleau have goals in consecutive games, including the overtime winner Friday vs. the Bruins, but he has showed he is still capable of playing a strong 200-foot game, despite being 38 years old.This is more impressive when you consider the short list of centers age 35 or over in the NHL:AgePlayerGPG-A-P41Matt Cullen (MIN)151-3-438Joe Thornton (SJ)142-8-1037Henrik Zetterberg (DET)174-7-1137Henrik Sedin (VAN)161-4-537Dominic Moore (TOR)113-0-336Derek MacKenzie (FLA)150-4-435Tomas Plekanec (MTL)173-3-635Antoine Vermette (ANA)163-3-6As you can see, most of these players are still in the league as a third- or fourth-line center for their defensive and penalty-killing ability. Marleau now has seven goals and 12 points in 18 games, and remains one of Toronto's most reliable defensive forwards thanks to his skating ability, strength on the puck, and all-around intelligence.Would Marleau rather just play the wing for all 82 games this season? Probably, but at this point in his career, all he cares about is winning, and he's clearly willing to do whatever it takes to help the team achieve that.Leafs head coach Mike Babcock had other options as to who would shift to center without Matthews in the lineup. William Nylander and Mitch Marner are both natural centers, and former first-round pick Frederik Gauthier has been called up from the AHL.Yet, Babcock called upon Marleau (a player he coached at the 2010 and 2014 Olympics) to play center, and with a championship likely the only thing on his mind, Marleau has answered the bell.A $6.25 million cap hit for a player approaching 40 may seem like a lot, but so far Marleau has been worth every penny.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Sidney Crosby has been here before, but any time the best player in the world is held off the score sheet for this long, it's cause for concern.The Pittsburgh Penguins captain was unable to score in Friday's 4-1 loss to the Washington Capitals, marking the 10th consecutive contest in which he's failed to find the back of the net.Crosby managed only two shots on goal in the defeat and played only 18:58, his lowest ice time since he was limited to 18:01 in a 7-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Oct. 21.The reigning Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner earned that distinction by potting 44 goals in 75 games last season, but he's scored only five times in his first 18 contests this fall.Crosby has chipped in a few assists during his 10-game scoring slump, but he's averaging fewer than two shots on goal over the last seven, and was managing fewer than three shot attempts per game at even strength coming into Friday's game.The Penguins have struggled to score as a team lately, lighting the lamp a mere 10 times in the last five games, and they've won only four of their last 10 contests during Crosby's skid.It won't get any easier for him or his club Saturday, when they'll meet the Nashville Predators for a Stanley Cup Final rematch on the road in the second half of a back-to-back.Crosby's longest goal drought came in 2011-12, when he went 12 games without scoring.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

In backstopping a 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night, Florida Panthers goaltender Roberto Luongo made history, moving into sole possession of fourth place on the all-time wins list with 455.Luongo tied Curtis Joseph for fourth on the list in October, but an injury delayed his inevitable climb up the ranks.The 38-year-old accomplished the feat in his 973rd contest, and now only trails Ed Belfour (484), Patrick Roy (551), and Martin Brodeur (691).Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

There’s no right way to end a professional hockey career.This is true even for those whose path ultimately leads to the Hockey Hall of Fame, after achieving the highest levels of success.Two of this year’s inductees were presented with the rare, perhaps romanticized opportunity to leave the game as a Stanley Cup champion after their respective teams prevailed in a winner-take-all Game 7.But as one made an immediate decision to hang up the skates, the timing wasn't quite right for the other.Sendoff was BruinSince 2001, three players who appeared in over 1,000 regular-season games opted to step away from the NHL upon winning a Game 7 in the Cup Final (according to Katie Strang, then of ESPN): Ray Bourque with the Colorado Avalanche (2001), Ken Daneyko with the New Jersey Devils (2003), and Mark Recchi with the Boston Bruins (2011).It’s the latter who’s one of four former NHL forwards being honored as a 2017 inductee into the Hockey Hall of Fame, and who confirmed his retirement in an interview with NBC's Pierre McGuire during the on-ice aftermath of an emotional victory over the Canucks in Vancouver.Recchi knew the time was right, and would have made the same call had the Bruins lost."I pretty much had my mind set," Recchi told theScore. "I called (former Bruin) Shawn Thornton the night before and told him it was going to be my last game the next day, so I pretty much had my mind made up."It was a long run, I played 110 games I think that year - something like that. I was 43. It would have taken a lot to get to where I needed to be in September. I think mentally I was at a point where I wouldn't have been able to do it."The Cup win was the third of Recchi's career, having previously won with Pittsburgh (1991) and Carolina (2006).Victory lap delayed(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)Another 2017 inductee had a chance to go out on the same note and add his name to the list above, but ultimately decided to keep playing.Dave Andreychuk didn’t have to wait as long as Bourque for his first taste from the Cup, but came pretty close. The former Tampa Bay captain reached 1,597 regular-season games before finally winning with the Lightning in 2004 - while the legendary defenseman appeared in 1,612 before getting his.At age 40, no one would have questioned Andreychuk for calling it quits in that moment, but instead, he chose to give it another go with the Lightning, even after - or perhaps especially because - the season following the Cup win was wiped away due to a lockout."(It was) unfortunate for us in '05, really," he said. "We were hurt the most of any team (by the lockout), or any city. We didn't get our victory lap. We were all signed and ready to come back to battle, to get to another Stanley Cup. We didn't go to the White House. There's a lot of things that hurt us. The momentum that we created in Tampa, with all the young kids - they had never seen a two-month playoff drive before. That all kind of went away in '05."His return lasted 42 games, during which he added six goals to the 634 previously amassed. It ended after being placed on waivers by then general manager Jay Feaster, who according to the CBC, said, "After giving ourselves half a season to evaluate and analyze, it became clear to us that David's game was not suited to the new NHL."Andreychuk does not regret giving it another go. The regret, he says, would have come in not trying."Coming back in '06, there were rule changes. Basically for me, there was a conversation with both Jay Feaster and (head coach) John Tortorella, about 'we'll revisit this in a few months and see how things are going,'" he said."I'm glad I came back, because I now know that I was ready to retire, and I was told by my dad to do it - 'Make sure you're sure, and you're not going to sit around Christmas time and say I wish I would have tried.' I know I tried, and I was satisfied."Recchi and Andreychuk will be officially inducted into the Hall of Fame in a ceremony on Nov. 13 in Toronto, along with fellow players Teemu Selanne, Paul Kariya, Danielle Goyette, and builders Clare Drake and Jeremy Jacobs.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

The New Jersey Devils are the latest team to prove that you can shut down Edmonton Oilers stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl all night long and still get burned in the end.That’s how special the reigning Hart Trophy winner and his talented linemate are - as they showed in the five-second span that ended Thursday’s game.With 21.3 seconds remaining in overtime, McDavid curled back to his blue line and took a pass from Kris Russell. As the defenseman went back to the bench for a change, McDavid streaked up the right side of the rink, using one big stride to blow the doors off Devils forward Brian Gibbons. After getting past Gibbons’ waving attempt at a check, McDavid skated in on Cory Schneider, and was all alone by the time he reached the faceoff dot.With a chance to put a move on and try to score the game-winning goal, McDavid instead slammed on the brakes at the edge of the circle. Devils defenseman John Moore, racing back desperately to break up the play, totally lost contact with the trailing Draisaitl, so McDavid stickhandled once and tapped the puck across the slot. Draisaitl popped a one-timer past Schneider, and that was that - 3-2 Oilers:

Nicklas Backstrom is the center of attention in Washington these days, but for reasons wholly unfamiliar.The Capitals center finds himself in the midst of a seven-game point drought, the longest such streak up to this point in his career.Since Backstrom entered the NHL in 2007, only five players have recorded more than his 740 points: teammate Alex Ovechkin (855), Sidney Crosby (818), Patrick Kane (766), Evgeni Malkin (765), and Joe Thornton (740).Backstrom is averaging 0.99 points per game through the beginning of his 11th season, so to go seven appearances without so much as a secondary assist is quite something.Still, Capitals head coach Barry Trotz, who's seen his team post a record of 4-3-0 without any tangible offensive contributions from his top center, remains firmly in Backstrom's corner."(Backstrom) has done a really good job," Trotz said, per Tom Gulitti of NHL.com. "I know there's a lot been said about not scoring or whatever. To me, it's about winning, and he's had all of the tough matchups. He's still creating good offense, but he hasn't got the numbers."I don't think I have to tell you what I think of Nicklas Backstrom. He's one of the best two-way centermen in the National Hockey League and he should be a Selke (Trophy) candidate every year."Backstrom will look to get back on the score sheet Friday against Pittsburgh.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jesse Puljujarvi will get another chance to prove he is NHL material as the Edmonton Oilers have recalled the forward from the AHL's Bakersfield Condors, the club announced Friday.The promotion comes courtesy of a lower-body injury to forward Anton Slepyshev that has landed the 23-year-old on the injured reserve.If Puljujarvi does indeed draw into the Oilers' lineup in their next game - Saturday against the New York Rangers - it will be his first appearance with the club since he suited up against the Boston Bruins on Jan. 5.The 19-year-old has gotten off to a rough start since being drafted fourth overall in 2016, having managed just one goal and eight points in 28 NHL games. Puljujarvi earned the call-up after posting five points in 10 contests while averaging over three shots per game with the Condors this season.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Jason Zucker is as hot as they come right now.The Minnesota Wild forward played a big hand in helping his team snap a three-game losing streak Thursday, scoring all three of the club's goals in their shutout victory over the Montreal Canadiens.This came one night after Zucker tallied two goals in a losing effort against the Toronto Maple Leafs.The recent hot streak has given the 25-year-old a team-leading eight goals and 13 points in 15 games.On a team with Eric Staal, Mikael Granlund, and Mikko Koivu, Zucker is not who you'd expect to be leading the team in scoring.Given the man-games lost to key forwards Zach Parise, Charlie Coyle, and Nino Niederreiter this season, Zucker's production is a major reason why the stumbling Wild are still two points out of a playoff spot.Zucker had a breakout season a year ago, tallying 22 goals, 47 points, and an NHL-best plus-34 rating, but he appears to have taken his game to another level in 2017-18 - right when Minnesota needs it most.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.

Emotions ran high for New Jersey Devils forward Brian Boyle after scoring his first goal since being diagnosed with myeloid leukemia back in September.In an interview during the first intermission, Boyle admitted that he cried shortly after scoring against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday.

The Montreal Canadiens are taking on the Minnesota Wild without two more key players.Jonathan Drouin and Shea Weber are both absent from Thursday's lineup due to injuries.Drouin left Tuesday night's win over the Vegas Golden Knights with what the club would only classify as an upper-body ailment. Weber has what the club would only call a lower-body injury. He got hurt in practice Wednesday, according to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.Both players are day to day.The Canadiens were already playing without all-world goaltender Carey Price, who has been out since last Thursday with a minor injury of his own.Copyright © 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.