Since the dawn of professional sports, athletes have been claiming they don't hear it when they g...

Since the dawn of professional sports, athletes have been claiming they don't hear it when they get booed. Marcus Foligno is calling their bluff."Everyone says, 'Oh, I don't hear it,' but you do hear the boos," the Minnesota Wild forward told theScore. He says he's been booed multiple times throughout his 15-year NHL career. "Especially the big ones when you get traded and (fans) get salty about the way you leave the organization."Mitch Marner is going to get one of the big ones.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He lived out the dream of every sports fan and became a star player for his hometown team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. If things had gone according to plan, he would've been remembered forever as a legend.Instead, Marner could be in for one of the most hostile receptions a returning player has received in the history of both Toronto sports and the NHL. While Scotiabank Arena isn't typically known as a loud or intimidating environment, it should be buzzing Friday when Marner makes his first appearance there as a visiting player with the Vegas Golden Knights.That was to be expected after he left this past offseason in a sign-and-trade despite receiving extension offers from Toronto. But the fact that Marner was booed in his home rink by the smattering of Maple Leafs fans in attendance for their game in Las Vegas on Jan. 15 cemented his fate in Friday's contest.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The boos are out for Mitch Marner from the Maple Leafs fans in Vegas 👀 <a href="https://t.co/8aYbEpfHV3">pic.twitter.com/8aYbEpfHV3</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2012009885924540820?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"I think the great question was always what my expectations were (for Jan. 23), but now I think I know going in," Marner told reporters postgame.As five-time World Series champion Reggie Jackson famously said, "They don't boo nobodies.""That's reserved for special players and a compliment more than anything," Maple Leafs defenseman Jake McCabe said.McCabe said he's never been singled out individually, but when he played for the Sabres, the team "got booed off the ice all the time in Buffalo." He admitted it did not feel good.Foligno said he received a positive reception when he returned to Buffalo to face the Sabres - his only former team - as a visiting player for the first time after he was traded to Minnesota in 2017. But in rival Winnipeg, he's become a villain.Foligno has fought Jets captain Adam Lowry three times, most recently in November 2025. They fought each other twice in the same game in February 2022. Foligno was handed the only suspension of his career - a two-game ban - for kneeing Lowry during the second tilt of the contest."The way I play, physically, there's been some times where fans don't take a liking to the physical play you bring," Foligno said. "There's been some run-ins with Winnipeg, there's been some boos when you get shown on the Jumbotron. It's fun. It brings you into the game a little bit more."Some players are comfortable playing the villain role, including Marner's former teammate Max Domi.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/cropped_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/w220xh124_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/w320xh180_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/w640xh360_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/w768xh432_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818470/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1862670966.jpg?ts=1769016650 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mark Blinch / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Domi said he was booed "almost every game" while playing junior hockey with the London Knights and got the same reaction when he returned to face his former teams for the first time in Columbus and Montreal. He said he "could care less" about the reception he gets in his old stomping grounds."It's unreal," the Maple Leafs forward said with a smirk. "They won't boo you for nothing."Unlike Foligno and Domi, Marner doesn't seem to be the type of player who feeds off that energy. Not known for being physical in general, he's never fought in his 10-year NHL career. He doesn't seem likely to just brush it off, either. As gifted as he is, he didn't deliver when the lights were brightest in Toronto. He appeared to grip his stick tighter as the pressure mounted. It's a major reason why he's playing for another team now.It would only be human if the jeers affected Marner on a personal level. Remember, he grew up less than an hour away from Scotiabank Arena in the neighborhood of Thornhill. Getting booed by the very same fans who once cheered him on after an unceremonious playoff exit is a nightmare.The Maple Leafs won just two playoff rounds with Marner despite making the postseason in each of the last nine years. While the rest of the Core Four - Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and William Nylander - also deserve varying degrees of blame for the playoff failures, it's Marner who was often scapegoated.He scored 13 goals in 70 playoff games with the Maple Leafs. Toronto went 0-7 in winner-take-all games with Marner, who produced zero goals and two assists in those legacy-defining contests.However, his relationship with the Maple Leafs fan base began to sour long before his departure. The foundation cracked in 2019 during a drawn-out, contentious contract negotiation. Marner squeezed his hometown team for every penny, signing a six-year deal with an average annual value of almost $10.9 million that made him the league's seventh highest-paid player for the coming season. Refusing to bend on anything in that negotiation - term or money - rubbed fans the wrong way, especially when other NHL players were regularly making concessions that gave their franchises more team-building flexibility.Of course, all of that would have been forgiven if Marner had delivered in the playoffs. That never happened. He alienated fans further during 2023's second-round matchup against the Florida Panthers. With the team down 3-0 in the series, he dismissed external criticism of the team, insisting: "We don't care what you guys say." The Leafs lost in five games.Then there was his temper tantrum on the bench during the 2024 playoffs.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Frustration has started to set in for the Maple Leafs stars 😠 <a href="https://t.co/PbnQBNigKD">pic.twitter.com/PbnQBNigKD</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1784399250153222225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>In 2025, sporting a dry head of hair 35 minutes into a second-round Game 7, he screamed at his teammates to wake up. The Leafs were trailing the Panthers 3-0 and went on to lose 6-1 (coincidentally, Domi scored their only goal).<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mitch Marner yells at his teammates to wake up 📽️: Sportsnet <a href="https://t.co/Ghv23pKiLG">pic.twitter.com/Ghv23pKiLG</a>— TheLeafsNation (@TLNdc) <a href="https://twitter.com/TLNdc/status/1924271071148019906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Neither of those on-ice outbursts helped his cause.Marner also refused to waive his no-movement clause for a potential 2025 deadline deal that would've brought Mikko Rantanen to Toronto. He shouldn't be booed for that - he was well within his rights to do so, especially with a pregnant wife.But Maple Leafs fans, who pay enormous amounts of money for tickets, are well within their rights to let him hear it Friday for just about everything else."When you're booed, you automatically think that they hate you," Foligno said. "But ... they're trying to get you off your game more than anything. You gotta think of it that way."Marner might try to think of it that way. But deep down, he'll know there's more to it.

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Some NHLers embrace getting booed. Can Marner do it in Toronto?

The Seattle Kraken are open to hearing out trade offers for center Shane Wright, according to TSN...

The Seattle Kraken are open to hearing out trade offers for center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12762" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12762">Shane Wright</a>, according to <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/2026/01/22/insider-trading-additional-review-would-help-officials-in-righting-a-wrong/">TSN's Darren Dreger</a>.Seattle general manager Jason Botterill is reportedly in no rush to move Wright and has set the price incredibly high.The Kraken are willing to use their young center depth to land an impact winger, Dreger adds. Seattle has selected a center with its top draft pick in four of its five years as a franchise.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wright tallied 19 goals and 25 assists in 79 games during his first full NHL season in 2024-25. However, the 22-year-old has regressed this season with only 17 points in 49 games.The Kraken selected Wright with the No. 4 pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Wright, who was granted exceptional status into the OHL as a 15-year-old, was widely expected to go No. 1 but slid on draft day.

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 22: Shane Wright #51 of the Seattle Kraken skates before the game against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on December 22, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

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Report: Kraken willing to listen to offers for Wright

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson won't return to Wednesday's game against the ...

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1652" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1652">Oliver Ekman-Larsson</a> won't return to Wednesday's game against the Detroit Red Wings due to a lower-body injury, the team announced.Ekman-Larsson exited the contest early in the first period after getting tangled up with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9204" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9204">Lucas Raymond</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Oliver Ekman-Larsson has been in the dressing room for some time <a href="https://t.co/Bf5uxVmAga">pic.twitter.com/Bf5uxVmAga</a>— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) <a href="https://twitter.com/TicTacTOmar/status/2014136152228327769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 34-year-old veteran has enjoyed a stellar campaign, leading all Maple Leafs defensemen with 31 points in 50 games and ranking third on the team in average time on ice entering Wednesday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ekman-Larsson was named to Sweden's Olympic team in January.The Maple Leafs have already been without defenseman <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1685" target="_blank">Chris Tanev</a> since December, with no indication that he's nearing a return.

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 19: Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (95) shoots the puck during the NHL regular season game between the Minnesota Wild and the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 19, 2026, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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Maple Leafs' Ekman-Larsson suffers lower-body injury vs. Red Wings

The Buffalo Sabres are rewarding winger Josh Doan with a seven-year extension carrying an average...

The Buffalo Sabres are rewarding winger <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10715">Josh Doan</a> with a seven-year extension carrying an average annual value of $6.95 million, the team announced Wednesday.Doan has enjoyed a breakout year, tallying 15 goals and 20 assists in 49 games with the Sabres in 2025-26 following an offseason trade with the Utah Mammoth.He's posted strong underlying numbers at both ends of the ice.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Josh Doan, extended 7x$7M by BUF, is a two-way playdriving winger who forechecks and backchecks like his life depends on it and is increasingly flourishing offensively as well. Analytical darling in Utah as a fourth liner and has scaled it up beautifully. <a href="https://t.co/cgyYwMQ3AP">pic.twitter.com/cgyYwMQ3AP</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/2014107961283547141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Utah sent Doan and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10909" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10909">Michael Kesselring</a> to Buffalo in exchange for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9219" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9219">JJ Peterka</a> in June.Doan tallied 28 points in 62 contests across his first two NHL seasons with the Arizona Coyotes and Mammoth. He surpassed that total in his 42nd game with the Sabres this campaign.Doan, who turns 24 on Feb. 1, is currently in the final year of his entry-level deal. His new contract will make him Buffalo's third-highest-paid forward next season. The pact is also the first notable transaction made by new general manager Jarmo Kekalainen, who took over for Kevyn Adams in December.Kesselring, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13818" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13818">Zach Benson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8680" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8680">Peyton Krebs</a> are Buffalo's remaining pending restricted free agents, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5550" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5550">Alex Tuch</a> is its most prominent pending unrestricted free agent. The Sabres project to have $13.2 million in cap space for next season.

RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 19: Right Wing Josh Doan (91) of the Buffalo Sabres prepares for a faceoff during the NHL game between the Buffalo Sabres and the Carolina Hurricanes on January 19, 2026 at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Sabres sign Doan to 7-year, $48.65M extension

The New Jersey Devils placed defenseman Luke Hughes on long-term injured reserve, the team announ...

The New Jersey Devils placed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a> on long-term injured reserve, the team announced Wednesday.LTIR requires players to miss at least 10 games. Hughes sat out Tuesday against the Edmonton Oilers, so he'll miss a minimum of nine more contests.Hughes is still being evaluated to determine an exact recovery timeline, according to <a href="https://x.com/ryannovoNHL/status/2014096266989293935">nj.com's Ryan Novozinsky</a>. He appeared to injure his shoulder in Monday's game against the Calgary Flames.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And that’s another shoulder injury for Luke <a href="https://t.co/i4wqy7pTWo">pic.twitter.com/i4wqy7pTWo</a>— Bryan Mac (@Bryan_Mac11) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bryan_Mac11/status/2013458708571767226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Hughes notably missed the start of last season while recovering from an offseason shoulder injury.The 22-year-old has tallied five goals and 21 assists in 49 contests this campaign. The Devils signed him to a seven-year, $63-million contract in October.

WINNIPEG, CANADA - JANUARY 11: Luke Hughes #43 of the New Jersey Devils skates during third period action against the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on January 11, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Los Angeles Kings goalie Darcy Kuemper suffered an upper-body injury in the first period of Tuesd...

Los Angeles Kings goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2003">Darcy Kuemper</a> suffered an upper-body injury in the first period of Tuesday's game against the New York Rangers and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest, the team announced.Kuemper departed late in the opening frame following a collision with Rangers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9424" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9424">Jonny Brodzinski</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Darcy Kuemper has left tonight’s game after a cross-crease save and contact with Jonny Brodzinski 🤕 <a href="https://t.co/ndXPxRDw1v">pic.twitter.com/ndXPxRDw1v</a>— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) <a href="https://twitter.com/GinoHard_/status/2013823097615315099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Kuemper entered Tuesday with a .905 save percentage in 31 appearances. He was a Vezina Trophy finalist a year ago, finishing third among goaltenders with a .921 save percentage and sixth with 31 wins.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 35-year-old was named to Canada's 2026 Olympic team in December.Kings backup netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2978" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2978">Anton Forsberg</a> entered Tuesday's game in relief and would be pressed into an extended workload if Kuemper is required to miss additional time.

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 7: Darcy Kuemper #35 of the Los Angeles Kings protects the goal during overtime against the San Jose Sharks at Crypto.com Arena on January 7, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and Los Angeles Kings are among ...

The Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and Los Angeles Kings are among the teams to kick the tires on Calgary Flames center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1182" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1182">Nazem Kadri</a>, reports <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/2026/01/20/insider-trading-sens-stay-focused-and-strong-amid-off-ice-challenges/">TSN's Darren Dreger</a>.Kadri is signed through 2028-29 with a $7-million cap hit and a 13-team no-trade list. While nothing appears to be imminent, there have reportedly been ongoing conversations between Calgary's front office and Kadri's camp. Kadri wants to do what's best for the Flames, but he also wants to chase a Stanley Cup, Dreger adds.The Flames, who enter Tuesday sitting 28th in the NHL's standings, are clear deadline sellers after sending defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4723">Rasmus Andersson</a> to the Vegas Golden Knights on Sunday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kadri, 35, leads the Flames with 34 points in 49 appearances this season. He's averaged 25 goals and 34 assists per 82 games throughout his 17-year NHL career.He previously played for both the Maple Leafs and the Avalanche. He began his career with Toronto and played 10 seasons with the club before he was dealt to Colorado, where he played three campaigns and won the Stanley Cup in 2022. Current Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving also signed Kadri to his current contract while with the Flames. However, neither the Maple Leafs nor the Avalanche has a pressing need at center.The same can't be said for Montreal and Los Angeles. The Kings have been without captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/575">Anze Kopitar</a> due to injury since Jan. 5 and traded away <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2083">Phillip Danault</a> to the Canadiens in December. While Danault helps Montreal's bottom six, Kadri would represent an upgrade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10564" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10564">Oliver Kapanen</a> as the team's second-line center. Kadri also notably grew up as a Canadiens fan.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - JANUARY 13: Nazem Kadri #91 of the Calgary Flames skates in the first period of a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on January 13, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark opened up about the reason for his leave of absence duri...

Ottawa Senators goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> opened up about the reason for his leave of absence during an interview with <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/article/ullmark-discusses-absence-from-sens-mental-health-and-erroneous-rumours/">TSN's Claire Hanna</a> published Tuesday."The real reason is mental health," said Ullmark, who hasn't played since Dec. 27. "And there's been a lot going on for a long time. I would say dating back to ever since the trade, and a lot of things have been positive as well throughout the years or these times. But a lot of the things that I had gone through or worried about hasn't really been dealt with in the right way."Ullmark said his anxiety reached severe levels during that Dec. 27 game against the Toronto Maple Leafs in which he allowed four goals on 14 shots. He said he called the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program as soon as the game was over.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I said, 'Hey. I'm f----d up. I need help.' And together with the program, together with the organization, we set up a plan and I went through the motions and I took the absence of leave," Ullmark said.The Senators put out a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3450372" href="https://thescore.com/news/3450372">statement</a> Jan. 8 to squash "ridiculous speculation" that had spread online about the reason for Ullmark's absence. Ullmark, who won the 2023 Vezina Trophy with the Boston Bruins, was traded to Ottawa in 2024. He helped the Senators snap a seven-year playoff drought last season but has posted an .881 save percentage in 28 appearances in 2025-26.

OTTAWA, CANADA - DECEMBER 18: Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators looks on prior to a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 18, 2025 at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes will miss time after departing Monday's 2-1 overtime win...

New Jersey Devils defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a> will miss time after departing Monday's 2-1 overtime win over the Calgary Flames with an injury, head coach Sheldon Keefe announced postgame.Hughes requires further evaluation, but Keefe confirmed he'll miss the remaining three games on New Jersey's road trip.The blue-liner left midway through Monday's second period and did not return. He appeared to to be in discomfort after a Flames player grabbed his jersey from behind.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And that’s another shoulder injury for Luke <a href="https://t.co/i4wqy7pTWo">pic.twitter.com/i4wqy7pTWo</a>— Bryan Mac (@Bryan_Mac11) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bryan_Mac11/status/2013458708571767226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Hughes missed the start of the 2024-25 campaign while dealing with a shoulder injury he suffered in offseason training.The 22-year-old has recorded 26 points in 49 games this season. The Devils signed him to a seven-year, $63-million contract prior to the start of the campaign.

CALGARY, AB - JANUARY 19: Matvei Gridin #92 of the Calgary Flames skates against Luke Hughes #43 of the New Jersey Devils at Scotiabank Saddledome on January 19, 2026 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

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Devils' Luke Hughes to miss time with injury sustained vs. Flames

We're back for more trade grades. Just like Sunday's Rasmus Andersson deal, Monday's swap involve...

We're back for more trade grades. Just like Sunday's Rasmus Andersson <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3458974" href="https://thescore.com/news/3458974">deal</a>, Monday's swap involved two Pacific Division clubs, this time with the Vancouver Canucks sending Kiefer Sherwood to the San Jose Sharks. Here's the full trade:<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7OTRE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7OTRE/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="158" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>Below, we hand out grades for each team.<h3>San Jose Sharks</h3>Sharks general manager Mike Grier is giving his team a huge vote of confidence, which should fire up the dressing room. Many expected the Sharks to finish near the bottom of the NHL standings again after coming dead last a year ago, but they're clinging to a playoff spot - barely.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It's great for their rebuild to be progressing so quickly, but I didn't think they'd be in a position to go shopping for one of the top rental players available without an extension in place. It wouldn't be surprising if the Sharks eventually extend Sherwood; they project to have an absurd $53.7 million in cap space this offseason. At the same time, I wouldn't blame him for wanting to test free agency. He turns 31 in March, so this would likely be his best chance to cash in.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/cropped_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/w220xh124_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/w320xh180_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/w640xh360_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/w768xh432_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634759/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1407552509.jpg?ts=1719511628 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Bruce Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Sharks could also theoretically flip Sherwood for a similar return before the March 6 deadline if they fall out of the race or the two parties can't get on the same page about an extension. There's plenty of time.Spending two second-rounders is fine, especially considering the Sharks' other assets. They're loaded with prospects and still have a pair of 2026 first-round picks (their own and the Oilers') and the Avalanche's 2026 second-round selection.There's some risk involved with Sherwood being on injured reserve, but it appears he'll be able to return following the Olympic break at the latest.The fit should be great once Sherwood hits the ice - any team could use a player like him. He's scored at a 24-goal pace (over 82 games) since the start of last season. He also set an NHL record with 462 hits last season and is second in the league with 210 in 2025-26. His underlying numbers have been strong over the last few seasons, too.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kiefer Sherwood, acquired by SJ, is a utility winger who hits everything that moves, forechecks and battles like a man possessed, and has an effective shot. Has also flashed good hands and some passing skill. Not a playdriver but could be a complementary middle-six player. <a href="https://t.co/ipvKvGZqRI">pic.twitter.com/ipvKvGZqRI</a>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/2013319223645274190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Sharks didn't have a player with this combination of physicality and offensive ability. He should be a nice complement to San Jose's several young, skilled forwards. A line of Sherwood, Macklin Celebrini, and Will Smith could be really fun.Grade: B+<h3>Vancouver Canucks</h3>I thought the Canucks might be able to get a first-round pick for Sherwood since his game is built for the playoffs. His bargain cap hit of $1.5 million would've made him an option for every buyer, too. Perhaps the Canucks could have fetched that first-rounder if they waited until the deadline was closer and created a bidding war, but it's impossible to know.Sherwood's unique, so it's tough to find comparable trades. The closest, most recent deal for a rental winger was Tyler Toffoli getting moved from the New Jersey Devils to the Winnipeg Jets in 2024 for a second-round pick and a third-round pick.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/cropped_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779645/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209278538.jpg?ts=1744168665 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Canucks make out pretty well in comparison, especially considering there's no guarantee the Sharks make the playoffs this season or in 2027. Those picks could be in the upper middle of the second round.Clayton, a 25-year-old career minor leaguer, isn't much of a factor in this deal.Grade: B-

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Trade grades: Grier gives Sharks vote of confidence with Sherwood deal

Florida Panthers netminder Sergei Bobrovsky and San Jose Sharks goalie Alex Nedeljkovic threw dow...

Florida Panthers netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a> and San Jose Sharks goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4130" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4130">Alex Nedeljkovic</a> threw down in Monday's game between the two clubs.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THINGS GET NASTY BETWEEN THE PANTHERS AND SHARKS AND IT LEADS TO A GOALIE FIGHT OH MY!!! 😱👊 <a href="https://t.co/xTJYwsnVvH">pic.twitter.com/xTJYwsnVvH</a>— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) <a href="https://twitter.com/GinoHard_/status/2013420088502743387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Sharks defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10907" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10907">Vincent Desharnais</a> was drilled after the whistle by Panthers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4526" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4526">Evan Rodrigues</a>, and then Nedeljkovic got involved in a scrum to the right of his net. Bobrovsky skated the length of the ice to engage Nedeljkovic, who obliged.Desharnais had drilled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> earlier in the game. It's Tkachuk's season debut after missing the start of the campaign following offseason surgery.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Vincent Desharnais lays the boom on Matthew Tkachuk! 💥 <a href="https://t.co/RgdymMocN6">pic.twitter.com/RgdymMocN6</a>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2013397118233285053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The entire fight sequence resulted in 16 penalty minutes. Bobrovsky and Nedeljkovic each got five for fighting and two for leaving their crease, while Desharnais received a two-minute minor for tripping. Rodrigues wasn't penalized.The Sharks won the game 4-1.It's the NHL's first goalie fight since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1584" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1584">Cam Talbot</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1149" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1149">Mike Smith</a> scrapped in 2020.

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 19: Alex Nedeljkovic #33 of thea San Jose Sharks and Sergei Bobrovsky #72 of the Florida Panthers fight during the third period at Amerant Bank Arena on January 19, 2026 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Bobrovsky, Nedeljkovic trade blows in epic goalie fight

The Vegas Golden Knights bolstered their blue line Sunday by acquiring Rasmus Andersson from the ...

The Vegas Golden Knights bolstered their blue line Sunday by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3448875" href="https://thescore.com/news/3448875">acquiring</a> Rasmus Andersson from the Calgary Flames. Here are the full details of the trade:<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QdsqJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QdsqJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="185" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure> * Flames retain 50% of Andersson's $4.55-million cap hit ** top-10 protected *** becomes first-rounder if Golden Knights win 2026 Stanley Cup<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>How did each team make out in the deal? We hand out grades below.<h3>Vegas Golden Knights</h3>It was always going to be Vegas, wasn't it? The Golden Knights were reportedly Andersson's preferred destination when his name started circulating in trade rumors this past offseason. And while an extension for the pending unrestricted free agent isn't part of this deal, I'd be shocked if the two sides don't eventually come to an agreement. The extremely aggressive Golden Knights front office always seems to get what it wants.Andersson immediately became a logical trade target for Vegas after Alex Pietrangelo announced in June that he's unlikely to resume his playing career due to hip injuries. Pietrangelo's absence left a gaping hole on the right side of Vegas' blue line, but Andersson is more than capable of filling it. He's a strong puck-mover and great shot-blocker who competes extremely hard. Upgrading from Whitecloud to Andersson is worth the cost of the draft picks for the Golden Knights, especially considering a familiar face on Vegas' blue line should help Andersson feel at home.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/cropped_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/w220xh124_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/w320xh180_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/w640xh360_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/w768xh432_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/818053/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1245915821.jpg?ts=1768786211 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Terence Leung / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Andersson and Noah Hanifin were defense partners in Calgary for three seasons before the Flames traded Hanifin to Vegas in 2024. In 216 games together from 2021-24, Andersson and Hanifin controlled 54% of the expected goals and 56.8% of the actual goals when on the ice together at five-on-five, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>.Hanifin and Whitecloud never jelled as well as hoped, but Hanifin and Andersson are a strong enough No. 1 pairing to win a Stanley Cup. The rest of Vegas' defense corps slots in nicely behind them: Shea Theodore and Brayden McNabb (when healthy) make a stellar second pair, and Jeremy Lauzon and Kaedan Korczak are an enviable third pairing.The Golden Knights need to get some saves from their goaltenders in order to go on a deep playoff run, but few - if any - netminders in the NHL have a better blue line in front of them.Grade: A-<h3>Calgary Flames</h3>The Flames were placed in a difficult position and made out pretty well, all things considered. After the deal, general manager Craig Conroy revealed that Andersson told the club Sunday morning that he wasn't willing to sign an extension as part of any trade. Conroy said that some teams reduced their offers or withdrew them altogether in response. That significantly limited Calgary's chances of creating a bidding war.There's also inherent risk in waiting it out. What if Vegas pivoted to another target? What if Andersson got hurt between now and the deadline? Remember, he's heading to the Olympics for Team Sweden.Conroy will be able to sleep knowing he got a competent return for his best trade chip, even if the package heading his way lacks upside.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/cropped_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/w220xh124_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/w320xh180_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/w640xh360_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/w768xh432_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/618432/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1516675547.jpg?ts=1739158134 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Bruce Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Whitecloud is 29 years old and an extremely reliable bottom-pair defenseman. He'll play hard minutes higher in Calgary's lineup out of necessity, which isn't a bad thing for a rebuilding club. It could also boost his trade value. Whitecloud is signed through 2027-28 at a very reasonable $2.75-million cap hit. The Flames could get a decent return if they decide to move Whitecloud at the 2027 or 2028 trade deadline.Wiebe, a 6-foot-3 defenseman at the University of North Dakota, isn't a highly touted prospect. It'll be a nice bonus for the Flames if the 2022 seventh-round pick becomes an NHL regular at any point.For Calgary, the primary assets are the picks. The Flames already own the Golden Knights' 2026 first-rounder as part of the Hanifin trade. Now they have their 2027 first-rounder and potentially their 2028 first-rounder if Vegas wins the Cup this year. This trade would become a massive win for both sides if the Golden Knights are the last team standing this year.Grade: B

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Trade grades: Andersson a perfect fit for Golden Knights

The Calgary Flames traded defenseman Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights, the teams anno...

The Calgary Flames traded defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4723">Rasmus Andersson</a> to the Vegas Golden Knights, the teams announced Sunday.In return, the Flames receive veteran blue-liner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7390" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7390">Zach Whitecloud</a>, defense prospect Abram Wiebe, a conditional 2027 first-round pick, and a conditional 2028 second-round pick. Additionally, Calgary is retaining 50% of Andersson's $4.55-million cap hit.The first-round pick is top-10 protected and the second-round pick becomes a first-rounder if the Golden Knights win the 2026 Stanley Cup, reports <a href="https://x.com/frank_seravalli/status/2013023606935080979">NHL insider Frank Seravalli</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Andersson, a pending unrestricted free agent, was arguably the top defenseman available ahead of the trade deadline. A contract extension is not part of the trade, <a href="https://x.com/DarrenDreger/status/2013018233519952349">TSN's Darren Dreger</a> reports. However, it was reported in the offseason that Vegas was Andersson's preferred destination.The 29-year-old has recorded 30 points in 48 games for the Flames this season while averaging a career-high 24:14 per contest. It's his fifth straight campaign averaging at least 22 minutes per game.As a right-shot defenseman, Andersson will help fill the void on Vegas' blue line left by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1098" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1098">Alex Pietrangelo</a>, who announced in the offseason that his playing career is likely over. Andersson has a chance to reunite with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4559" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a>, his primary defense partner with the Flames in 2021-22 and 2022-23.The Golden Knights acquired Hanifin as a pending UFA prior to the 2024 deadline, then signed him to a eight-year extension just over a month after the trade.Whitecloud is a stay-at-home, right-shot defenseman. The 29-year-old has spent all eight of his NHL seasons in Vegas, helping the Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup in 2023. He's under contract through 2027-28 with a $2.75-million cap hit.Wiebe, 22, was a seventh-round pick by the Golden Knights in 2022. The left-shot defenseman stands at 6-foot-3 and 206 pounds. He's recorded 14 points in 24 games at the University of North Dakota this season.The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs were reportedly among the other teams to show interest in Andersson this season.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - JANUARY 13: Rasmus Andersson #4 of the Calgary Flames warms up prior to a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on January 13, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Golden Knights acquire Andersson from Flames

Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl is taking a leave of absence to attend to a family illness...

Edmonton Oilers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> is taking a leave of absence to attend to a family illness in Germany, the team announced Saturday. He's expected to return later next week.Draisaitl entered Saturday ranked fifth in the NHL with 67 points in 48 games this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Oilers play five contests between Saturday and the end of next week.Edmonton's center depth could be tested further with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1882" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1882">Adam Henrique</a> already out with an injury. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2031" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2031">Ryan Nugent-Hopkins</a>, who's recently been playing left wing on the team's top line, is a candidate to shift back to the middle and center the second line in Draisaitl's absence.

EDMONTON, CANADA - JANUARY 10: Leon Draisaitl #29 of the Edmonton Oilers in action during the game against the Los Angeles Kings at Rogers Place on January 10, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Draisaitl taking leave for family illness, expected back next week

The Rasmus Andersson sweepstakes appear to be down to four teams.  Two clubs from the Eastern Con...

The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4723">Rasmus Andersson</a> sweepstakes appear to be down to four teams.Two clubs from the Eastern Conference and two from the Western Conference remain in the mix for the Calgary Flames defenseman, reports <a href="https://x.com/DarrenDreger/status/2012528628261617903">TSN's Darren Dreger</a>. The Boston Bruins and Vegas Golden Knights are considered strong contenders to land the 29-year-old, Dreger adds.Andersson, a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a $4.55-million cap hit, is arguably the top blue-liner available. The right-shot defenseman has racked up 29 points in 47 games for the Flames this season while averaging a career-high 24:12 per contest.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Flames and Golden Knights reportedly discussed a trade involving Andersson this offseason, with Vegas being his preferred destination at the time. The Golden Knights need a right-shot defenseman, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1098" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1098">Alex Pietrangelo</a>'s career is likely over. Additionally, lefty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1866" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1866">Brayden McNabb</a> is on LTIR.The Bruins are also seeking a right-shot defenseman after trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4643" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4643">Brandon Carlo</a> last season.Andersson's deal includes a six-team no-trade list, but the Flames could maximize a return if he signs an extension as part of a trade.The Toronto Maple Leafs have also been linked to Andersson this campaign.

EDMONTON, CANADA - DECEMBER 23: Rasmus Andersson #4 of the Calgary Flames in action during the game against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on December 23, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Report: Bruins, Golden Knights among 4 teams in mix for Andersson

Vegas Golden Knights forward Mitch Marner is ready to face the Toronto Maple Leafs for the first ...

Vegas Golden Knights forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> is ready to face the Toronto Maple Leafs for the first time in his career Thursday night, though he expects his emotions will be heightened."Probably excitement, nerves," Marner told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6970759/2026/01/15/mitch-marner-vegas-maple-leafs-anticipation/">The Athletic's Jonas Siegel</a> in December. "I've just gotta remind myself that it's just another hockey game and (to) go out there and just play hockey and don't worry about anything else. Just go out there and have fun with it, because that's when you're at your best."The Golden Knights acquired Marner from the Maple Leafs in a sign-and-trade this past offseason following a nine-year run in Toronto. Marner racked up 741 points in 657 games with the Maple Leafs - good for sixth in franchise history - but received plenty of scrutiny for a highly publicized contract dispute in 2019 and his postseason struggles.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thursday's game at T-Mobile Arena marks the first of two meetings between the Golden Knights and Maple Leafs in just over a week. Marner will make his highly anticipated return to Toronto on Friday, Jan. 23. He said he's not sure what type of reception he'll receive."I have no idea," said Marner, who grew up just outside Toronto. "I had a lot of great years there, a lot of fun. I'm very appreciative of that fan base and the love I got from them for the nine years I was there. We'll see what it's like."Marner has notched 47 points in 45 games for the Pacific Division-leading Golden Knights this season.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 10: Mitch Marner #93 of the Vegas Golden Knights warms up before a game against the St. Louis Blues, his 700th career NHL game, at T-Mobile Arena on January 10, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Golden Knights defeated the Blues 4-2.

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Marner anticipates 'excitement, nerves' in 1st game against Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes are among the teams with interest in New Jersey D...

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes are among the teams with interest in New Jersey Devils defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2155" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2155">Dougie Hamilton</a>, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6971585/2026/01/15/nhl-rumblings-hamilton-coaching-hot-seat/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>.However, it's believed that the Maple Leafs would only consider a trade if the Devils retained a significant portion of Hamilton's contract, LeBrun adds. Hamilton is signed for two more seasons after 2025-26 with a $9-million cap hit.He also has a 10-team trade list, but Hamilton's agent, J.P. Barry, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3452077" href="https://thescore.com/news/3452077">said</a> his client is willing to consider teams outside that list to help accommodate a move.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hamilton was a healthy scratch Sunday against the Winnipeg Jets, but he's played in each of New Jersey's two games since.The Maple Leafs have a need for a right-shot, top-four defenseman with uncertainty surrounding the health of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1685" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1685">Chris Tanev</a>. The veteran blue-liner hasn't played since Dec. 28 due to a groin injury. The exact duration of his absence is unclear, but the team said he'll miss significant time.Hamilton, who's 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, has endured a down year offensively with 13 points in 42 games. He racked up nine goals and 31 assists in 64 appearances in 2024-25.Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving employed Hamilton during his time with the Calgary Flames, although he traded him to Carolina in 2018.Hamilton spent three years with the Hurricanes before joining the Devils as a free agent in 2021. He played arguably his best hockey in Raleigh, finishing 14th, seventh, and fourth in Norris Trophy voting while forming a stellar top defense pair with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4716" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4716">Jaccob Slavin</a> for head coach Rod Brind'Amour.The Hurricanes could theoretically take on the entirety of Hamilton's contract since they have $17 million in cap space.

NEWARK, NJ - JANUARY 14: Dougie Hamilton #7 of the New Jersey Devils skates during a game between the Seattle Kraken and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on January 14, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Report: Maple Leafs, Hurricanes among teams interested in Hamilton

The Montreal Canadiens signed forward Alexandre Texier to a two-year extension with an average an...

The Montreal Canadiens signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7698" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7698">Alexandre Texier</a> to a two-year extension with an average annual value of $2.5 million, the team announced Wednesday.Texier has proven to be an excellent fit in Montreal, recording seven goals and nine assists in 25 games since signing a one-year, $1-million contract with the Canadiens as a free agent in November. The 26-year-old has spent most of his time with the Habs skating on the top line with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a>. The trio has outscored opponents 9-2 with a 65.2% expected goals share at five-on-five together, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Texier previously played for the Columbus Blue Jackets and St. Louis Blues. He and the Blues mutually agreed to terminate his contract after he recorded one assist in eight games with St. Louis to begin the 2025-26 campaign.Texier will represent France at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

MONTREAL, QC - JANUARY 08: Alexandre Texier (85) of the Montréal Canadiens celebrates after scoring a goal during the second period of the NHL game between the Florida Panthers and the Montreal Canadiens on Jan 08 2026, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, QC

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Canadiens sign Texier to 2-year, $5M extension

Tiger Woods is ecstatic to have Brooks Koepka back on the PGA TOUR.  "I think it's incredible for...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1637" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1637">Tiger Woods</a> is ecstatic to have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> back on the PGA TOUR."I think it's incredible for the TOUR, incredible for all the fans," Woods told <a href="https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/47603547/tiger-woods-happy-brooks-koepka-back-says-own-return-aways-off">ESPN's Scott Van Pelt</a> on Tuesday night. "The fan initiative program that we did last year, what they wanted, they want to see the best play against the best. And for Brooks to want to come back, a year early, and he was able to do that."Koepka was reinstated by the PGA TOUR on Monday after joining LIV Golf in 2022. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>As part of his reinstatement, the five-time major champion is required to make a $5-million charitable donation and forfeit his stake in the TOUR's Player Equity Program for five years (an estimated $50 million to $85 million in potential earnings).Koepka was one of four LIV Golfers eligible to return under the PGA TOUR's new Returning Member Program, which is limited to players who won a major championship or The Players between 2022 and 2025. The other three - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/891" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891">Cam Smith</a> - all said Tuesday they're <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454723" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454723">planning to stay</a> with LIV for at least another year.Woods, who chairs the PGA TOUR's Future Competition Committee and is a member of the PGA TOUR policy board, said Koepka's opportunities won't be limited as long as he's playing well."He's going to play full-field events, and he has the ability to earn his way up to signature events," Woods said. "If he's good, he's good. If he plays great, he plays great. If he wins tournaments, he wins tournaments. There's no reason why we should hold him back."However, Woods' return to the PGA TOUR is far less clear after he underwent lumbar disc replacement surgery in October. The 50-year-old said Tuesday he's been cleared to hit short irons and mid irons, but nothing more."Whenever that time comes when I start hitting drivers and I start playing at home and start doing all the different things, I will have been away from the game for a year and a half," Woods said. "So I will be very rusty. And so there's a lot that goes into it, so my prep is going to have to be a little bit different from my other procedures I've had in the past. I've had to stay a lot more patient with myself. I get sore faster, I guess because I'm 50. And that happens."Woods last played in a PGA TOUR event at the 2024 Open Championship.

DUBLIN, OHIO - JULY 17: Tiger Woods of the United States and Brooks Koepka of the United States walk during the second round of The Memorial Tournament on July 17, 2020 at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio.

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Tiger: Koepka's return 'incredible' for PGA TOUR, fans

LIV Golf appears to be keeping three of its biggest stars despite watching Brooks Koepka return t...

LIV Golf appears to be keeping three of its biggest stars despite watching <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3453796" href="https://thescore.com/news/3453796">return</a> to the PGA TOUR.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/891" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891">Cam Smith</a> - the only other LIV golfers eligible to return to the PGA TOUR under the circuit's new Returning Member Program - each announced their intentions to stay with LIV Golf this year."I'm contracted through 2026, so excited about this year," DeChambeau said at Tuesday's LIV captains press conference, according to <a href="https://x.com/Schrock_And_Awe/status/2011186573606555965">Golf.com's Josh Schrock.</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I'm not planning on going anywhere, so very similar answer to what Bryson gave," Rahm added."I made a decision to come here, and I stand by it," Smith told <a href="https://x.com/EvinPriest/status/2011180155952382115">Golf Digest's Evin Priest</a>.The PGA TOUR announced Monday that the return protocol is open until Feb. 2, but only for golfers who have won a major championship or The Players between 2022 and 2025. Only Koepka, DeChambeau, Rahm, and Smith meet the criteria.The TOUR added that it's also "a one-time, defined window." "Once the door closes, there is no promise that this path will be available again," PGA TOUR CEO Brian Rolapp said.Koepka must forfeit his stake in the TOUR's Player Equity Program for five years (an estimated $50 million to $85 million in potential earnings) and make a $5-million charitable donation as part of his reinstatement."I was surprised," DeChambeau said of Koepka's exit, according to <a href="https://www.todays-golfer.com/news-and-events/tour-news/bryson-dechambeau-future-liv-golf-pga-tour-youtube/">Ben Parsons of Today's Golfer</a>. "I didn't know he'd be willing to give that much back. That's everybody's prerogative."

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WEST VIRGINIA - AUGUST 16: Jon Rahm of Spain hand shakes Bryson DeChambeau of the United States after finishing the 18th hole during day one of LIV Golf: Greenbrier at The Old White Course on August 16, 2024 in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

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DeChambeau, Rahm, Smith planning to stick with LIV Golf in 2026

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