The Utah Hockey Club is close to finalizing its permanent brand identity.  "We're deep in the (je...

<p>The Utah Hockey Club is close to finalizing its permanent brand identity.</p><p>"We're deep in the (jersey) design process for next season, which goes hand in glove with our brand identity and what we're going to do there," Utah's president of hockey operations Chris Armstrong said Monday at the NHL's board of governors meetings, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/utah-hockey-club-progressing-on-permanent-brand-identity">NHL.com's Nick Cotsonika</a>. "We're all working within the timelines and trying to get creative about those to give ourselves as much runway to get all those pieces lined up properly."</p><p>The sale and relocation of the Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City wasn't approved by the NHL's board of governors until April 2024, so the league's newest franchise opted to go with the temporary identity of Hockey Club for its inaugural campaign given the quick turnaround.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>There's a slim chance Hockey Club could be permanent, though. That was one of six finalists from a fan vote held in June, in addition to Blizzard, Mammoth, Outlaws, Venom, and Yeti.</p><p>Team captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5592">Clayton Keller</a> said in September that "it sounds like it's going to be the Yeti, but I don't know."</p><p>Armstrong added that they're hoping to come to a conclusion early in 2025.</p><p>"I'd say we're getting close to needing to make some decisions," Armstrong said. "I'd say early in the new year. Everybody's tried their best to work flexibly - or away from hard and fast deadlines - because it is a complicated process, especially on the (intellectual property) side. Just making sure we've got everything lined up and buttoned up before we make any firm decisions."</p><p>However, the team isn't expected to unveil its decision until the offseason.</p><p>"That's what we're thinking now," Armstrong said. "We've been saying we don't want to take the wind out of our sails on season one. We've got such a great response in our inaugural season and a lot of momentum, and we want the focus to continue to be on this inaugural season and the efforts our players are putting into making it a successful season. We don't want to dominate that conversation with what we might be or not be next year. I think that's important."</p>

MONTREAL, QC - NOVEMBER 26: View of a Utah Hockey Club logo on a jersey worn by a member of the team during the Utah Hockey Club versus the Montreal Canadiens game on November 26, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC

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Utah progressing on permanent brand identity

Alex Ovechkin may be known as the Russian Machine, but that doesn't mean he'll be immune to basic...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> may be known as the Russian Machine, but that doesn't mean he'll be immune to basic human emotions when his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record draws to a close.</p><p>"He's human," Gretzky said Monday of the Washington Capitals captain, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5982121/2024/12/09/wayne-gretzky-alex-ovechkin-goals-record/">The Athletic's Chris Johnston</a>. "He'll get a little bit nervous near the end."</p><p>Ovechkin looked poised to break Gretzky's goals record sooner than expected before suffering a fractured fibula in November. He got off to an electric start with 15 goals in his first 18 games, putting him at 868 in his career - 27 shy of surpassing Gretzky's 894.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 39-year-old was given a four-to-six week timeline Nov. 21, so he could return as early as next week. If he's back by the early end of that timeline, he could have roughly 50 games left in the season to score 27 goals - a challenge, but one that seems within reach for the nine-time Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner.</p><p>Gretzky has been publicly supportive of "The Gr8 Chase" and said he hopes to be at the game where Ovechkin breaks his record.</p><p>"I talk to Alex periodically and I always wish him the best," Gretzky said. "He'll be fine. He's handled the pressure. He's won the Stanley Cup. He's been a big part of the success of the NHL. He's been a huge part of the Washington Capitals.</p><p>"Listen, he's been nothing but positive for our sport and that's most important. And good for him, man."</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - NOVEMBER 18: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals celebrates after scoring a goal against the Utah Hockey Club on November 18, 2024 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery could've easily played the "us against the world" card to beg...

<p>Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery could've easily played the "us against the world" card to begin the season, if he wanted to. Washington checked all the boxes of a team that qualified for the commonly used motivational tactic.</p><p>The majority of preseason prognosticators had the Caps missing the playoffs in 2024-25, with theScore Bet and ESPN Bet giving them +7500 odds to win the Stanley Cup entering the campaign. Only seven teams - Calgary, Utah, Chicago, Montreal, Anaheim, Columbus, and San Jose - were viewed as bigger long shots.</p><p>Yet here are the Caps: 19-6-2 and tied for first place in the NHL as of Monday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Honestly, I didn't look at any of the predictions. I don't think anybody in here paid attention to any of that," veteran forward Nic Dowd told theScore ahead of Friday's 3-1 win over the Maple Leafs. "It's something for the media to circle in on. I think we've just been keeping our heads down, playing good hockey."</p><p>There are several factors driving the red-hot Capitals, who are an impressive 6-2-1<em><strong> </strong></em>since captain and leading goal-scorer Alex Ovechkin suffered a fractured fibula in November. Among them are a series of savvy offseason moves made by the front office, led by president of hockey operations Brian MacLellan and general manager Chris Patrick. Management clearly wasn't satisfied after 2023-24, when Washington squeaked into the playoffs but was swept in Round 1.</p><p>The Capitals traded goaltender Darcy Kuemper to the Kings for center Pierre-Luc Dubois in a blockbuster deal, filling a gaping hole at center left by Nicklas Backstrom and Evgeny Kuznetsov. They also acquired Andrew Mangiapane for a second-round pick, traded Beck Malenstyn for a second-rounder, and landed netminder Logan Thompson from the Golden Knights for a pair of third-rounders. On defense, Washington traded Nick Jensen and a third-rounder for Jakob Chychrun, and signed Matt Roy. Brandon Duhaime, Taylor Raddysh, and Jakub Vrana were added up front in depth roles.</p><p>Not every addition has been a grand slam, but the newcomers are all playing their part. Chychrun's notably<em><strong> </strong></em>tied for second among NHL defensemen in goals (eight) despite missing five games due to injury. Thompson ranks in the top 10 among qualified NHL goalies in both save percentage (.913) and goals saved above expected (8.77).<em><strong> </strong></em>He and Charlie Lindgren are the most cost-effective goalie duo in the league, making only a combined $1.86 million.</p><p>While Mangiapane hasn't lit up the score sheet (six goals, four assists), he's been an effective third-line checker. His 2.6 defensive goals above replacement ranks 13th among NHL forwards.</p><p>"I know from the guys that were here last year, they probably weren't happy with losing in the first round. I'm sure that might've been a (motivational) factor for them," Mangiapane said. "But a lot of new guys coming in wanted to show the organization and the team what they have and what type of players they are and why they acquired them. I think a mixture of all of those is leading to our success."</p><p>The Capitals are also benefitting from major internal growth. Several players are enjoying breakout years, including Dylan Strome (106-point pace) and Connor McMichael (46-goal pace). Carbery said both have taken developmental "leaps and bounds" this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/cropped_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759264/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187919200.jpg?ts=1733523988 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Tafoya / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Strome's career arc is fascinating. He was drafted third overall in 2015 by the Coyotes but never found his way in Arizona. He broke out with the Blackhawks after a 2018 trade, but Chicago mysteriously non-tendered him in 2022, allowing him to leave in free agency for nothing. Now 27, Strome's firmly in his prime and providing Washington outstanding value at $5 million per season through 2028.</p><p>"He's really trying to take that next step to be in the conversation with other first-line centers in the NHL. The Auston Mathews', the Brayden Points of the world," Carbery said. "He's gotten off to a tremendous start, from where he's come from the start of his career and just sort of chipping away and finding a home in Washington and now elevating his game to another level this season. He's been tremendous."</p><p>McMichael, 23, is a homegrown talent. The Capitals picked him 25th overall in 2019, and his 42 career goals rank ninth among players from his draft class,<strong> </strong>despite a somewhat slow start to his pro career. He spent most of last season at center but found a home on the wing this year.</p><p>"He's just such an ultra-confident player (who) is going to find a way. He's a guy you bet on that's going to get the most out of his career," said Carbery, who coached McMichael in 2021 with the AHL's Hershey Bears. "A lot of people doubted whether he could become a scorer and a point producer in the NHL. They (labeled him a) 'middle-six, third-line center.' And he scoffed at that. 'Why can't I score in the NHL? Why can't I produce?'"</p><p>McMichael worked "tirelessly" on his shot in the summer, Carbery added.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/cropped_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756182/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181223203.jpg?ts=1732025266 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Not all breakouts can be measured, though. Yes, Tom Wilson's on pace for a career-high 33 goals, but he's also taken on greater leadership responsibilities this season<em><strong> </strong></em>without Backstrom and T.J. Oshie in the fold.<em><strong> </strong></em>Vrana, who began his career in D.C., was part of Washington's 2018 Stanley Cup-winning squad, and who's now back with the club after spending the last few years in Detroit and St. Louis, sees it firsthand.</p><p>"Especially (Wilson)," Vrana said when asked about players who've grown as leaders between his two stints with the team. "I saw (Wilson) his first couple years when I got in the league. He's taken a huge step moving forward, he's been here for many years, and he's not just a leader in the locker room, he proves it on the ice as well."</p><p>Vrana said the same about veteran defenseman John Carlson, as well.</p><p>Whether the Capitals can sustain their hot start - and perhaps go on a run like they did in 2018 - remains to be seen. There's been a fraction of good fortune involved, as they lead the league with a 13.79% shooting percentage.<em><strong> </strong></em>Regression to some degree is possible (the Lightning led the league at 11.96% last season).</p><p>One thing's clear, though: the Capitals don't need any bulletin board material as motivation. Immense confidence in each other means there's no need to embrace an underdog mentality, either. They believe they're right where they belong: among the NHL's elite.</p><p>"It's just a really hungry, self-motivated team," Carbery said.</p><p>(Analytics source: <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>)</p>

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How the confident and self-motivated Capitals are proving everyone wrong

The Chicago Blackhawks placed goaltender Petr Mrazek on injured reserve with a left groin injury,...

<p>The Chicago Blackhawks placed goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2204" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2204">Petr Mrazek</a> on injured reserve with a left groin injury, the club announced Sunday.</p><p>Interim head coach Anders Sorensen said Saturday night that Mrazek will be out for "a little bit," per <a href="https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/1865544698259013796">Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>.</p><p>Mrazek got hurt during the first period of Saturday's 4-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Petr Mrazek left today's game with an apparent injury. Arvid Söderblom is now in net for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Blackhawks?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Blackhawks</a>. <a href="https://t.co/7sMROP9kuj">pic.twitter.com/7sMROP9kuj</a></p>— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) <a href="https://twitter.com/CHSN_Blackhawks/status/1865511509314445340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Mrazek owns a .906 save percentage in 20 games this season despite playing for the NHL's last-place team.</p><p>Backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11231" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11231">Arvid Soderblom</a> entered the game in relief of Mrazek. He's also been sharp this season, posting a .915 save percentage in eight appearances.</p><p>The Blackhawks signed veteran netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2077" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2077">Laurent Brossoit</a> in the offseason, but he's yet to suit up after undergoing offseason knee surgery. He was given a four-week timeline on Sept. 20, but his recovery is taking longer than expected.</p><p>Defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/578" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/578">Alec Martinez</a> will also miss time, Sorensen added Saturday.</p><p>The Blackhawks recalled goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9258" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9258">Drew Commesso</a> and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12725" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12725">Kevin Korchinski</a> on Sunday in corresponding moves.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 04: Petr Mrazek #34 of the Chicago Blackhawks reacts against the Boston Bruins during the third period at the United Center on December 04, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Blackhawks' Mrazek lands on IR with groin injury

Paul Maurice further cemented his legendary status in Florida Panthers lore, moving into sole pos...

<p>Paul Maurice further cemented his legendary status in Florida Panthers lore, moving into sole possession of first place on the franchise's all-time coaching wins list with Saturday's 3-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks.</p><p>Maurice overtook Jacques Martin for top spot. </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Coach</th>
<th>Games</th>
<th>Wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Paul Maurice</td>
<td>192</td>
<td>111</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jacques Martin</td>
<td>246</td>
<td>110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter DeBoer</td>
<td>246</td>
<td>103</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gerard Gallant</td>
<td>186</td>
<td>96</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Doug MacLean</td>
<td>187</td>
<td>83</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>"It's been a lot of fun," Maurice said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JamesonCoop/status/1865589156467912983">Jameson Olive</a> of the team's website. "The intensity and the ups and downs and the success has made it. These guys are fun to coach. We've been in some wild games and incredibly difficult situations and found a way. We reached the summit."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Maurice guided the Panthers to their first Stanley Cup last season. He also led Florida to the final in 2023.</p><p>No coach in Panthers history has lasted longer than three seasons. Maurice, who was hired ahead of the 2022-23 campaign, is primed to become the first. Florida now sits first in the Atlantic Division after its victory.</p>

SUNRISE, FL - NOVEMBER 25: Head coach Paul Maurice of the Florida Panthers looks on during second period action against the Washington Capitals at the Amerant Bank Arena on November 25, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Maurice becomes Panthers' all-time winningest coach

Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen didn't agree with the NHL's decision to not call g...

<p>Buffalo Sabres goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7745" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7745">Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen</a> didn't agree with the NHL's decision to not call goalie interference on the Winnipeg Jets' opening goal Thursday.</p><p>The non-call ended up being a critical one, as the Sabres fell 3-2 in overtime for their fifth consecutive loss.</p><p>Luukkonen's glove was bumped by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6466" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6466">Gabe Vilardi</a> on the play in question. Buffalo challenged unsuccessfully for goalie interference. The NHL ruled that contact came outside the blue crease.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Vilardi, 1-1. Buffalo challenged for goaltender interference unsuccessfully <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sabrehood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sabrehood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gojetsgo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gojetsgo</a> <a href="https://t.co/7VS9WvcdKE">pic.twitter.com/7VS9WvcdKE</a></p>— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) <a href="https://twitter.com/SabresPlays/status/1864827161116369262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I feel like that's bullshit," Luukkonen <a href="https://www.nhl.com/sabres/video/luukkonen-postgame-vs-wpg-6365614116112">said</a> postgame. "There's no way I can make a save on that. I'm not that far out from the crease."</p><p>He added: "It's a quick game, it's hard for the refs to make the right calls always, but I have no chance to make a save on that play."</p><p>Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff agreed with his goaltender's sentiment.</p><p>"You don't know unless you challenge. It's that kind of grey (area). You don't know," Ruff <a href="https://www.nhl.com/sabres/video/lindy-ruff-postgame-vs-wpg-6365614200112">said</a> of the inconsistencies of goalie interference reviews. "I thought, just the fact that he wasn't allowed to make the save, that's an interference penalty."</p><p>Ruff added: "The guy that went through was out of the crease. Does that mean the guy can run the goalie over if he's out of the crease? No. It's always a hit-and-miss (situation)."</p><p>To make matters worse for the Sabres, they were on the wrong end of another review. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10544" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10544">Tyson Kozak</a> thought he scored in his NHL debut before Winnipeg successfully challenged for goalie interference.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tyson Kozak thought he scored his first NHL goal and then Winnipeg challenged for goaltender interference successfully <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sabrehood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sabrehood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gojetsgo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gojetsgo</a> <a href="https://t.co/dHdaA2a98m">pic.twitter.com/dHdaA2a98m</a></p>— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) <a href="https://twitter.com/SabresPlays/status/1864852552136733035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It sucks for it to be disallowed," Kozak <a href="https://www.nhl.com/sabres/video/kozak-postgame-vs-wpg-6365613040112">said</a>. "It sucks even more for us to lose in overtime."</p>

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 5: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen #1 of the Buffalo Sabres looks on against the Winnipeg Jets during an NHL game on December 5, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

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The Nashville Predators will be without their top center for the immediate future, as Ryan O'Reil...

<p>The Nashville Predators will be without their top center for the immediate future, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1350" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1350">Ryan O'Reilly</a> is week-to-week with a lower-body injury, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>It's unclear when O'Reilly got hurt, though he was limited to 16:50 in Nashville's last game Wednesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs, his third-lowest total of the season.</p><p>O'Reilly leads all Predators forwards in average time on ice (19:30) and ranks third on the team with 14 points in 26 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nashville was already thin down the middle of the ice, with general manager Barry Trotz stating in October that he was looking to add a center. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11038" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11038">Tommy Novak</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3033" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3033">Colton Sissons</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10682" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10682">Fedor Svechkov</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5522" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5522">Mark Jankowski</a> are among the team's other options. The club could move <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> back to center, though he's primarily been a winger in recent years.</p><p>The Predators also activated forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3067" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3067">Michael McCarron</a> from injured reserve and placed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4645" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4645">Jeremy Lauzon</a> on IR.</p>

NEWARK, NJ - NOVEMBER 25: Nashville Predators center Ryan O'Reilly (90) warms up before a NHL game between the Nashville Predators and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on November 25, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey.

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The Washington Capitals were one of two NHL teams without a player named to the 4 Nations Face-Of...

<p>The Washington Capitals were one of two NHL teams without a player named to the 4 Nations Face-Off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3114606" href="https://thescore.com/news/3114606">rosters</a>, along with the Seattle Kraken.</p><p>However, one of these teams is not like the other. The Kraken are out of the playoff picture, but the Capitals enter Thursday atop the Eastern Conference standings.</p><p>"(It's) disappointing to see that," Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery <a href="https://x.com/Capitals/status/1864754113168154843">said</a>. "I thought we had several players that had strong arguments and cases to be a part of the tournament and to represent their countries.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I understand that my opinion is a little bit biased. But I also think it's one thing if you're advocating for your players and you're sitting at .500, but we're sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference standings right now. And to not have one guy there is a little odd to me."</p><p>The Capitals feature several players who likely warranted consideration, including winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a> and goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a> for Canada, as well as defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1445" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1445">John Carlson</a> for the United States. Thompson, notably, ranks second among qualified Canadian netminders in save percentage (.913) and first in goals saved above expected (8.1), per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.</p><p>However, it's still possible these players, or others, will be named to their respective country's teams later as injury replacements.</p><p>One silver lining is that Washington's entire roster will get some crucial rest while the tournament runs from Feb. 12-20 in Boston and Montreal. But Carbery isn't quite ready to label it a positive.</p><p>"Maybe, if you start to get over the fact that they don't get an opportunity to represent their country," he said. "Other than playing in the NHL and making the NHL and winning the Stanley Cup, it's right there with that honor to represent your country. The time off, it's easy to say that now, but I still think if I ever had that opportunity, I'd give up my whole summer to be able to do that. I don't think guys look at it that way, but maybe we will at some point in the second half."</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - NOVEMBER 18: Head Coach Spencer Carbery of the Washington Capitals talks with Dylan Strome #17 of the Washington Capitals during the first period of a game against the Utah Hockey Club on November 18, 2024 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Carbery disappointed Capitals don't have a 4 Nations representative

The last-place Chicago Blackhawks fired head coach Luke Richardson on Thursday, the team announce...

<p>The last-place Chicago Blackhawks fired head coach Luke Richardson on Thursday, the team announced.</p><p>Rockford IceHogs head coach Anders Sorensen will take over Richardson's post on an interim basis.</p><p>Richardson was in his third season on the job, but the club didn't seem to be making progress. Chicago sits last in the entire NHL with 18 points. The team owned a 57-118-15 record under his stewardship.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Today I made the difficult decision to move on from Luke as our head coach. We thank him for his efforts and contributions to the organization and our community," general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement. "As we have begun to take steps forward in our rebuilding process, we felt that the results did not match our expectations for a higher level of execution this season and ultimately came to the decision that a change was necessary."</p><p>Sorensen, who hails from Sweden, becomes the third European-born and trained head coach in NHL history after Finland's Alpo Suhonen and Czechia's Ivan Hlinka.</p><p>The 49-year-old Sorensen is expected to remain the team's interim bench boss for the rest of the season, and the organization will conduct a coaching search after the campaign ends, <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1864799646150705553">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a> reports.</p><p>Sorensen has worked in the Blackhawks organization since 2014-15, serving as AHL Rockford's head coach since November 2021. The IceHogs made the playoffs in each of the last three years, losing in Round 2 each time.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 10: Chicago Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson speaks to the press prior to the game against the Minnesota Wild at the United Center on November 10, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Blackhawks fire Richardson, name Sorensen interim head coach

Welcome to the second edition of theScore's 2024-25 Norris Trophy Rankings. We publish new rankin...

<p>Welcome to the second edition of theScore's 2024-25 Norris Trophy Rankings. We publish new rankings once a month throughout the campaign.</p><p>These rankings put an emphasis on analytics and the all-around ability of defensemen rather than only points or reputation.</p><p><em>xGF% = five-on-five expected goals for percentage</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>5. Vladislav Gavrikov, Kings</h3><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/cropped_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758980/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185941203.jpg?ts=1733377863 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>23:43</td>
<td>58.33%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>No Drew Doughty, no problem for the Kings thus far. They're on pace for 100 points despite not having their top defenseman through the first two months of the campaign. Gavrikov's efforts are a major reason why.</p><p>Gavrikov has been arguably the best shutdown defender in the league this season. Among blue-liners with at least 200 five-on-five minutes, the 6-foot-3, 221-pound Russian ranks fourth in expected goals against per 60 minutes despite playing highly difficult matchups on a nightly basis. This is all while primarily playing his off side, no less.</p><p>His offense is nothing special - although 35-point pace<em><strong> </strong></em>is nothing to scoff at - but Gavrikov's elite defensive play makes him worthy of being on this list.</p><h3>4. Zach Werenski, Blue Jackets</h3><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/cropped_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755240/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182909292.jpg?ts=1731613245 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kirk Irwin / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>26:06</td>
<td>52.0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Picked by many to finish near the bottom of the NHL's standings - if not the basement - the Blue Jackets have surprised everyone by remaining in the playoff race in December. Werenski has been the chief contributor as the team's undisputed MVP.</p><p>Unlike most players on this list, Werenski doesn't have a lot of talent around him to work with. He's one of three defensemen in the league currently leading his team in points. Werenski is driving play at both ends of the ice while being a true workhorse, leading all NHL skaters in ATOI.</p><h3>3. Victor Hedman, Lightning</h3><p><em>Previous: 4</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/cropped_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758898/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187090579.jpg?ts=1733347396 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mark LoMoglio / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>23:30</td>
<td>56.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Hedman is showing that his resurgent start to the season was no fluke. He's continued his strong play with nine points and a 54.7% xGF% in nine games since the last edition of these rankings.</p><p>Tampa Bay's shutdown pair of Ryan McDonagh and Erik Cernak handle the toughest matchups, but Hedman's dominating in the minutes he's being given. The Bolts are outscoring teams 22-13 with their captain on the ice at five-on-five.</p><h3>2. Cale Makar, Avalanche</h3><p><em>Previous: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/cropped_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756146/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184870459.jpg?ts=1731988659 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>25:01</td>
<td>57.2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Makar has slowed down a bit over the last month relative to the absurd pace he had set for himself, as he managed a modest nine points in 12 games since the previous rankings. However, he still leads all NHL defensemen in assists and points, and he's tied for first in goals.</p><p>The 2022 Norris winner is certainly closer to the top spot on this list than he is to No. 3, but right now there's no question as to who the new No. 1 should be.</p><h3>1. Quinn Hughes, Canucks</h3><p><em>Previous: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/cropped_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/w220xh124_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/w320xh180_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/w640xh360_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/w768xh432_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634166/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2152928057.jpg?ts=1719188307 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Derek Cain / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>ATOI</th>
<th>xGF%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>24:58</td>
<td>60.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>There hasn't been a repeat Norris winner since Nicklas Lidstrom claimed three straight from 2006-08, but Hughes is aiming to change that.</p><p>Hughes ranks second to Makar in assists and points among defensemen, but he's producing with far less help around him. While Makar has Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen producing at elite rates, the same can't be said for Hughes' Canucks. Elias Pettersson is having a down year relative to his standards, J.T. Miller is on an indefinite personal leave, and Brock Boeser missed seven games due to injury. The Canucks would be lost without their captain.</p><p>Hughes is the engine driving Vancouver game after game, pacing the club with 29 points. His underlying numbers are stellar, both offensively and defensively. Among defensemen with at least 200 five-on-five minutes, he ranks fourth in xGF% and 10th in xGA/60.</p><p><strong>Keep an eye on:</strong></p><ul>
<li>John Carlson, Capitals</li>
<li>Rasmus Dahlin, Sabres</li>
<li>Brock Faber, Wild</li>
<li>Adam Fox, Rangers</li>
<li>Miro Heiskanen, Stars</li>
</ul><p>(Analytics source: <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>)</p>

DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 01: Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) skates during the first period of an NHL regular season hockey game between the Vancouver Canucks and the Detroit Red Wings on December 1, 2024 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.

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Norris Trophy Rankings: Hughes looking to repeat

Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras suffered a lower-body injury in the second period of Wednesda...

<p>Anaheim Ducks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9757" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9757">Trevor Zegras</a> suffered a lower-body injury in the second period of Wednesday's 4-1 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights and did not return.</p><p>Zegras took an awkward fall and had to be helped off the ice by his teammates.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trevor Zegras is assisted to the locker room after an awkward fall. <a href="https://t.co/BXrgrECtoE">pic.twitter.com/BXrgrECtoE</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1864522781833966045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 23-year-old has recorded four goals and six assists in 24 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Zegras was the Calder Trophy runner-up in 2022 after the first of back-to-back 60-point seasons. However, he's since battled injuries and failed to replicate that success.</p>

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 4: Trevor Zegras #11 of the Anaheim Ducks skates with the puck during the game against the Vegas Golden Knights on December 4, 2024 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

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Ducks' Zegras exits vs. Golden Knights with lower-body injury

Utah Hockey Club prospect Tij Iginla underwent season-ending hip surgery, the team announced Wedn...

<p>Utah Hockey Club prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15200" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15200">Tij Iginla</a> underwent season-ending hip surgery, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>Iginla plays for the WHL's Kelowna Rockets. He tallied 32 points in 21 appearances before the injury.</p><p>The ailment explains Iginla's puzzling absence from Canada's world junior selection <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3147357" href="https://thescore.com/news/3147357">camp</a>. He was one of five players picked in the top 10 of the 2024 draft to be omitted from the roster.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Utah selected Iginla sixth overall. He's the first pick in the franchise's history.</p>

SAN JOSE, CA - OCTOBER 01: Utah Hockey Club center Tij Iginla (12) looks at the puck while getting up from the ice during a preseason NHL game between the Utah Hockey Club and the San Jose Sharks on October 1, 2024 at SAP Center at San Jose in San Jose, CA.

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Tij Iginla to miss remainder of WHL season after hip surgery

The wait is over.  Management teams for Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland unveiled t...

<p>The wait is over.</p><p>Management teams for Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland unveiled their 23-man rosters Wednesday for February's 4 Nations Face-Off.</p><p>Below, we present each country's projected lineup, discuss a few notable snubs, and provide an overview of team-level strengths and weaknesses.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Canada 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/cropped_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/w220xh124_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/w320xh180_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/w640xh360_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/w768xh432_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758888/w1080xh607_GettyImages-630580912.jpg?ts=1733345003 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Claus Andersen / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Canada (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Dz3xF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Dz3xF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Canada (Defensemen)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Nhc3y" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Nhc3y/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Canada (goal)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-dptKk" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dptKk/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Notable snubs:</strong> Noah Dobson, Drew Doughty, Logan Thompson</p><p>Bennett and Jarvis are the only modest surprises up front. While there's a litany of forwards Canada could've chosen instead - including Mark Scheifele, Zach Hyman, and Carter Verhaeghe - there are no particularly stunning snubs.</p><p>The same can't be said for the blue line, where general manager Don Sweeney went slightly off the board. Parayko was always on our radar, but Sanheim, admittedly, wasn't. He probably should've been, though, considering he's logging huge minutes in Philadelphia this season and brings the requisite size and stability needed of a depth defender.</p><p>But Dobson also checks those boxes and is coming off a season in which he finished eighth in Norris Trophy voting. Perhaps management preferred Sanheim's left-handedness?</p><p>Excluding Doughty is justifiable as he recovers from a fractured ankle, but we still thought Canada might call his name anyway since he projects to be ready in time for the tournament.</p><p>Thompson, meanwhile, is the best Canadian goalie this season by virtue of goals saved above expected, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>. Binnington and Hill have the championship pedigree, but what does Montembeault have over Thompson - or Cam Talbot - for that matter?</p><p><strong>Team outlook:</strong> Canada boasts unparalleled star power with McDavid and MacKinnon up front and Makar on the back end. Those are arguably three of the five best players on the planet - and the mega-star trio has plenty of support.</p><p>The Canadians are stacked at forward. All-timer Crosby will likely center the second line while elite NHLers like Point, Marner, and Stone could very well occupy bottom-six roles at even strength. Bennett, Hagel, Konency, and Jarvis are pest types who can be moved up and down the lineup with ease.</p><p>The blue line is very good - though not quite as impressive as the defense corps for USA and Sweden. Five of Canada's seven defensemen have won the Stanley Cup. Four are 6-foot-2 or taller and weigh at least 200 pounds.</p><p>Goaltending is, unsurprisingly, the elephant in the room with this squad. With so many premier skaters, maybe the netminders will be well-insulated and deemed a non-factor. Or, maybe the opposite unfolds and Canada's tournament is tanked by unreliable goaltending.</p><h3>United States 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/cropped_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/w220xh124_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/w320xh180_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/w640xh360_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/w768xh432_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758890/w1080xh607_GettyImages-960512020.jpg?ts=1733345083 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Martin Rose / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team USA (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7Qeay" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7Qeay/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team USA (Defensemen)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LbNii" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LbNii/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team USA (goal)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Z83Cj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Z83Cj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Notable snubs:</strong> Tage Thompson, Jason Robertson, Jake Sanderson</p><p>Cole Caufield leads all American NHLers in goals with 16 in 25 games. Thompson is first in the nation in goals per game, with 13 in 20 or 0.65 per game. Neither player made the final cut, which is a risky move by Team USA.</p><p>That said, there's a reasonable case for passing on Caufield. He doesn't bring much to the table beyond scoring, and the U.S. has a ton of quality forwards.</p><p>Thompson, on the other hand, is the biggest snub among the four rosters announced Wednesday. The ultra-skilled 6-foot-6 sniper is one of the NHL's unicorns, regardless of nationality. He's clutch, responsible defensively, can line up at center or wing, and is absolutely dynamite on the power play.</p><p>If USA struggles to score, we'll know why. They overthought this one.</p><p>Robertson was a near lock ahead of the season but two months on is still searching for his "A" game. Clayton Keller is another fringe guy passed over.</p><p>Sanderson's stock has been rising. However, it appears Hanifin - five years older - beat him for that last left defenseman spot.</p><p><strong>Team outlook:</strong> There's no question that, on paper, the Americans boast the most talented roster, top to bottom. It should be their tournament to lose.</p><p>They don't possess the same caliber of high-end forwards as Canada, but the depth is on par. The back end is truly special with dynamic offensive blue-liners like Hughes and Fox perfectly complementing defensive stalwarts McAvoy and Slavin. And the goaltending is unquestionably a major strength with Hellebuyck vying for his second straight Vezina Trophy.</p><p>But if there's one thing to nitpick from Team USA, it's the intangibles. There's no obvious captain for the Americans like there is with Canada (Crosby), Sweden (Hedman), or Finland (Barkov). Eichel, Guentzel, and Matthew Tkachuk are the only players on the team with Cup rings. In comparison, 15 of Canada's players have won a Cup. It's very possible none of this matters, but again, we're nitpicking at what's otherwise a pretty flawless roster.</p><h3>Sweden 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/cropped_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/w220xh124_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/w320xh180_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/w640xh360_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/w768xh432_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758894/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2152101638.jpg?ts=1733345540 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Sweden (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jxd9x" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jxd9x/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Sweden (defense)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-wMRVn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wMRVn/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Sweden (goal)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nZSp1" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nZSp1/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="106" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Notable snubs:</strong> Mikael Backlund, William Eklund, Hampus Lindholm</p><p>Backlund is the most surprising omission from Team Sweden as a strong defensive player and respected veteran leader. He could've easily stepped into the lineup in a depth role and not hurt the team with a costly mistake.</p><p>Eklund's absence isn't completely shocking, but it is eyebrow-raising. His small stature and inexperience likely kept him off the team (though his 23 points are more than Arvidsson and Nyquist have combined for this season).</p><p>Lindholm is easily the best Swedish player left off the team, but his exclusion is more of a byproduct of the nation's depth on defense. A great defender was bound to get the short end of the stick, and it just so happened to be him.</p><p><strong>Team outlook:</strong> Sweden's performance in this tournament will be strongly tied to its blue line and how much influence it has on the outcome of each game.</p><p>Hedman is the country's best player and, realistically, its only top-tier superstar. Dahlin, Forsling, Brodin, and Ekholm are all excellent defenders who can theoretically keep up with the lethal forwards out of Canada and the States. The two righties, Karlsson and Andersson, offer offensive punch.</p><p>The forward group is fairly deep but ultimately unremarkable in comparison to the North American squads. Part of the problem is that three key creators - Pettersson, Forsberg, and Zibanejad - have underwhelmed offensively this season. Will they be at the peak of their powers come February? Nylander, Bratt, Kempe, and Raymond can't be expected to carry the offense alone.</p><p>Sweden shouldn't have any issues in goal - three solid options.</p><h3>Finland 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/cropped_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/w220xh124_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/w320xh180_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/w640xh360_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/w768xh432_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758892/w1080xh607_GettyImages-611034352.jpg?ts=1733345287 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vaughn Ridley / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Finland (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-81GIW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/81GIW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Finland (defense)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2iOS2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2iOS2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Final Team Finland (goal)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-t4Z9v" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/t4Z9v/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="106" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Notable snubs:</strong> Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Henri Jokiharju</p><p>Given Finland's shallow talent pool, "snub" might be a strong word here. </p><p>Nevertheless, Kotkaniemi - who can play both center and the wing - would have provided a level of versatility Armia can't provide. The former Canadiens teammates have similar stat lines in 2024-25 - 13 points in 25 games for the 24-year-old Kotkaniemi and 10 points in 25 games for the 31-year-old Armia.</p><p>Jokiharju's exclusion is somewhat surprising seeing as only seven Finnish defensemen have played more than five games this year, and he's one of them. His roster spot went to Maple Leaf Hakanpaa (two games, currently on injured reserve). That can't feel great for the Sabres blue-liner.</p><p><strong>Team outlook:</strong> Finland is going to have to win ugly to have any chance at this event. Its most surprising selections - Armia and Hakanpaa - reflect management's awareness that the team needs size and physicality to overcome its shortcomings. They will have to outwork the opposition.</p><p>The glaring weakness is on defense. Heiskanen is a stud, but he's the only offensive threat from the back end. The rest, though, are at least big, tough, and physical. If head coach Antti Pennanen's message gets through, that playing style could cause upsets in a short tournament, especially with decent firepower up front, and a goalie in Saros who's capable of stealing games.</p>

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4 Nations rosters analysis: Snubs, team outlooks, and more

Auston Matthews is back.  The Toronto Maple Leafs captain returned to the team's lineup Saturday ...

<p><a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> is back.</p><p>The Toronto Maple Leafs captain returned to the team's lineup Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning after missing nine games with an upper-body injury.</p><p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> also came back Saturday after missing two games with an upper-body injury of his own.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Matthews visited a specialist in Germany to help treat the ailment, which didn't require surgery. He said the injury flared up in preseason and got progressively worse as he continued to play through it.</p><p>The shorthanded Maple Leafs went 7-2-0 in Matthews' absence, with <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> (15 points), <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a> (11 points), and <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a> (nine points) doing some heavy lifting in that span.</p><p>Tavares and Marner rekindled an old connection together on the top line, and they stayed together on the second unit versus the Lightning.<em> </em>Matthews, who's spent most of his time this season with Marner, skated on a line between Nylander and Knies at Friday's practice.</p><p>Toronto also <a href="https://x.com/markhmasters/status/1862566026027635095">reunited</a> a five-forward power-play unit at Friday's practice featuring Matthews, Marner, Nylander, Tavares, and Knies. The group's previous time together was cut short by Matthews' injury.</p><p>The Maple Leafs remain without fellow forwards <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3007">Max Domi</a> (lower-body injury), <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6397">David Kampf</a> (lower-body injury), <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2576">Calle Jarnkrok</a> (hernia), <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/666">Max Pacioretty</a> (lower-body injury), <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1101">Ryan Reaves</a> (suspension), and the latest player to go down, <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a> (lower-body injury), against the Lightning.</p><p>Matthews, who won the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy in three of the last four seasons, was off to an uncharacteristically slow start to the season before exiting the lineup, tallying just five goals and six assists in 13 games entering Saturday's clash.</p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - JANUARY 11: Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs is congratulated by Matthew Knies #23 after scoring a goal against the New York Islanders during the second period at UBS Arena on January 11, 2024 in Elmont, New York.

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Matthews, Knies return to Leafs lineup

The Colorado Avalanche and Nashville Predators are swapping backup goalies.  The Avs traded Justu...

<p>The Colorado Avalanche and Nashville Predators are swapping backup goalies.</p><p>The Avs traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10527" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10527">Justus Annunen</a> and a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Preds for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1794">Scott Wedgewood</a>, the teams announced Saturday.</p><p>Both netminders have struggled this season:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Goalie</th>
<th>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Annunen</td>
<td>6-4-0</td>
<td>3.23</td>
<td>.872</td>
<td>-5.85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wedgewood</td>
<td>1-2-1</td>
<td>3.69</td>
<td>.878</td>
<td>-4.31</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>Goals saved above expected courtesy <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.</em></p><p>However, Annunen, 24, is eight years younger than the 32-year-old Wedgewood. Annunen, a 2018 third-round pick out of Finland, also shined in 14 games a season ago, posting a .928 save percentage. He doesn't project to see a lot of NHL action moving forward with workhorse netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4571" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4571">Juuse Saros</a> at the helm in Nashville.</p><p>Wedgewood has more experience, though. He's appeared in 135 career NHL games to Annunen's 29. Wedgewood enjoyed a stellar three-year run as the Stars' backup, posting a .907 save percentage across 61 games in Dallas, before signing a two-year, $3-million deal with the Predators in free agency. He could see more action the rest of the way with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6533" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6533">Alexandar Georgiev</a> (.872 save percentage) struggling as Colorado's starter.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 18: Justus Annunen #60 of the Colorado Avalanche looks on against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center on November 18, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Avalanche defeated the Flyers 3-2.

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Avalanche trade Annunen to Predators for Wedgewood

The Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Columbus Blue Jackets have explored the possibi...

<p>The Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Columbus Blue Jackets have explored the possibility of trading for Vancouver Canucks winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9827">Nils Hoglander</a>, reports <a href="https://x.com/KevinWeekes/status/1862577192208658805">ESPN's Kevin Weekes</a>.</p><p>The 23-year-old entered Friday with just five points in 21 games this season after potting a career-high 24 goals in 2023-24. He's averaged roughly 12 minutes per game this season and last.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">More smoke around Nils Hoglander. The speedy Swede scored 24 even strength goals last year in fourth line minutes but has just two this year. 3 years at $3M after this season. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canucks?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canucks</a> <a href="https://t.co/rYJv1tIjFK">pic.twitter.com/rYJv1tIjFK</a></p>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1862590578141106555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Hoglander's cap hit for this season is $1.1 million. He signed a three-year, $9-million extension in October that begins in 2025-26.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Canucks drafted Hoglander in the second round out of Sweden in 2019.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 26: Nils Hoglander #21 of the Vancouver Canucks skates against the Boston Bruins during the second period at the TD Garden on November 26, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Canucks won 2-0.

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Report: Capitals, Penguins, Jackets interested in Canucks' Hoglander

The New York Rangers recently inquired about the availability of Vancouver Canucks forward J.T. M...

<p>The New York Rangers recently inquired about the availability of Vancouver Canucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5956450/2024/11/29/rangers-nhl-shesterkin-trade-trouba/">The Athletic's Arthur Staple and Peter Baugh</a>.</p><p>Miller has been out indefinitely on personal leave since Nov. 19.</p><p>"Right now, our sole focus is making sure that J.T. knows the entire organization is here to support him," Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rangers drafted the 31-year-old 15th overall in 2011, and he spent parts of five seasons in New York before being traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was traded again to the Canucks in 2019 and is in the second season of a seven-year deal that carries an $8-million cap hit and a full no-movement clause.</p><p>Rangers GM Chris Drury reportedly tried to trade for Miller in 2022 but was unwilling to include defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9196" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9196">Braden Schneider</a> in the deal.</p><p>Miller has been among the game's most productive players in recent years, ranking 12th among NHL forwards with 300 points in 259 games since the 2021-22 season. He set career highs with goals (37) and points (103) in 81 games a year ago. He's managed 16 points in 17 appearances this season.</p><p>The 6-foot-1, 218-pounder also brings both versatility and an element of sandpaper to his game. He's flourished both as a center and a winger, and he recorded at least 200 hits in each of the past two seasons.</p><p>It's unclear if Miller would be willing to waive his NMC or if the Canucks would be open to moving him. His current absence from the lineup is leaving a gaping hole down the middle of Vancouver's lineup behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5506" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5506">Teddy Blueger</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9957" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9957">Pius Suter</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10589" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10589">Aatu Raty</a> are currently centering the team's second, third, and fourth lines, respectively.</p><p>The Rangers are also right up against the cap and would have to move out a significant salary to accommodate Miller.</p><p>Drury <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3139493" href="https://thescore.com/news/3139493">reportedly</a> sent a memo to the 31 other NHL teams that he wants to shake up his club with a trade, citing veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2542" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2542">Chris Kreider</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2912" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2912">Jacob Trouba</a> among the players he's willing to deal. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8593" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8593">Kaapo Kakko</a> is also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3143154" href="https://thescore.com/news/3143154">reportedly</a> available.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - NOVEMBER 12: J.T. Miller #9 of the Vancouver Canucks skates up ice during their NHL game against the Calgary Flames at Rogers Arena on November 12, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Report: Rangers inquired about Canucks' Miller

Rosters for February's 4 Nations Face-Off are due Monday and will be announced Wednesday - Sweden...

<p>Rosters for February's 4 Nations Face-Off are due Monday and will be announced Wednesday - Sweden and Finland at 2 p.m. ET, Canada and USA at 6:30 p.m.</p><p>Below, we unveil our final roster predictions for each country. (Bolded players were previously named to the team in June.)</p><h3>Canada 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/cropped_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/w220xh124_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/w320xh180_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/w640xh360_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/w768xh432_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/551344/w1080xh607_GettyImages-611584608.jpg?ts=1672326919 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bruce Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-kch4X" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/kch4X/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="271" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Zach Hyman, Alexis Lafreniere</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Canada's forward group is the strength of its roster, featuring arguably the two best players in the world in McDavid and MacKinnon, plus one of the best ever in Crosby, the presumed captain who still plays at a very high level.</p><p>Reinhart's two-way savviness and finishing ability make him the ideal linemate for McDavid. At one point, it seemed like Hyman had the other McDavid flank spot sewn up, but a recent injury and lackluster production could give GM Don Sweeney and Co. some pause. Verhaeghe isn't necessarily having his best year, but the two-time Stanley Cup winner is an effective forechecker and proven big-game player. He gets the nod on LW1 in part because of his familiarity with Reinhart, which could pay dividends in a short tournament.</p><p>The second line could also have some built-in chemistry with the trio of Nova Scotia natives who all train together in the offseason. MacKinnon even said previously that he'd happily move to the wing to play with Crosby.</p><p>Cirelli and Hagel are both enjoying career years. They became relatively easy picks thanks to their speed, tenacity, and the trust they've built with Lightning and Canada coach Jon Cooper.</p><p>We considered Connor Bedard for the 13th forward role, but Scheifele's vastly outplaying him and is more deserving of the last spot.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada (Defensemen)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ber9L" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ber9L/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="211" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Owen Power, Colton Parayko</p><p>Three picks were straightforward. Toews slots in perfectly alongside Makar, while Morrissey and Dobson are two well-rounded players in their primes. It helps to have lefty-righty harmony on the first and second pairs.</p><p>Doughty would be another obvious pick if not for an ankle injury. Out all season, he's projected to return to NHL action before the tournament. We're betting that, despite the uncertainty, Canada's management group will gladly select Doughty, believing the veteran has runway to round into form.</p><p>We strongly considered Parayko for the third pair but feel Pietrangelo is capable of providing Parayko-like value (physicality, penalty killing, leadership) <em>and</em> contributing in other ways. Pietrangelo's the more complete blue-liner.</p><p>Theodore barely got the nod over Power. We like his assertive playing style. But don't be surprised if Power makes Canada's 2026 Olympic team.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Canada (goalies)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Degax" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Degax/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>Cam Talbot</p><p>Goaltending remains Canada's clear weakness. Cup winners Binnington and Hill are enduring rough seasons, but both appear poised to make the team based on a recent <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/jordan-binnington-adin-hill-appear-set-to-make-canada-s-4-nations-team-daccord-s-status-unclear-1.2210698">TSN</a> report.</p><p>That leaves one spot up for grabs between Thompson and Talbot, who have been by far Canada's best goalies in 2024-25. Both are deserving, but we opted to go with Thompson, who's emerging as Washington's No. 1 goalie with a .917 save percentage and is a decade younger than Talbot.</p><h3>United States 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/cropped_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/w220xh124_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/w320xh180_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/w640xh360_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/w768xh432_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757813/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2152005599.jpg?ts=1732819831 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0r5p8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0r5p8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Chris Kreider, J.T. Miller</p><p>The only reason Miller isn't on our mock roster is because he's on an indefinite leave of absence from the Canucks. We don't know his return timeline, and we're guessing Team USA brass doesn't, either.</p><p>Kreider, another virtual lock coming into the season, is playing his way off the 4 Nations squad. The 33-year-old winger has recorded only nine points (all goals) in 19 games for the Rangers. His ice time's down this year, while the trade noise around him increased over the past week or so.</p><p>We tapped highly competitive and versatile center Trocheck and creative playmaker Keller as their replacements. Trocheck gives the Americans another right-handed option. Keller, penciled in as the 13th forward, has enough offensive juice to revive any line combination that may be struggling.</p><p>Not that we're predicting struggles for this group. Coach Mike Sullivan has a wide variety of forwards at his disposal, from game-breaking superstars like Matthews, Hughes, and Eichel, to more nuanced players like the Tkachuk brothers, Guentzel, and Robertson. Boldy, a noteworthy riser this season, is an all-around talent and one of the NHL's finest young power forwards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA (Defensemen)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-W4xzf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/W4xzf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="177" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>John Carlson</p><p>The Americans boast arguably the tournament's best blue line. There's a strong mix of righties, lefties, offensive defensemen, and shutdown blue-liners who should complement each other in a productive way.</p><p>While the top two pairings are pretty much set in stone, the third isn't. Faber's built off his Calder Trophy runner-up season by establishing himself as one of the NHL's premier defensive defensemen in his sophomore campaign. With Wild executive Bill Guerin serving as USA's GM, you can bet Faber will be there.</p><p>Werenski and Sanderson are somewhat interchangeable. We gave Werenski the nod as the experienced guy, but Sanderson's probably better defensively.</p><p>It was difficult leaving off Carlson amid a resurgent season, but it may come down to USA wanting a lefty as the seventh defenseman since Faber's spot on the third pair seems to be far more secure.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA (goalies)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ub5P3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ub5P3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>Anthony Stolarz<strong> </strong></p><p>The Americans have high-end talent and depth in net.</p><p>Hellebuyck is trending toward a second consecutive Vezina Trophy; he's the No. 1 goalie at this point, no questions asked. Oettinger's start has him sniffing around the Vezina conversation, making him the top backup option.</p><p>Picking a third-stringer is trickier, with Stolarz currently shining and Swayman struggling following drawn-out contract negotiations. We decided to stick with Swayman, the netminder with the more robust resume and higher ceiling. Management's likely considering the real possibility of Stolarz hitting a wall and Swayman looking like his old self by the time the tournament rolls around.</p><h3>Sweden 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/cropped_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/w220xh124_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/w320xh180_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/w640xh360_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/w768xh432_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370829/w1080xh607_GettyImages-609521368.jpg?ts=1566052543 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andre Ringuette / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Sweden (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Lj72L" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Lj72L/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Sweden (Defensemen)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-eceVc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eceVc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team USA (goalies) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ec5KM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ec5KM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Viktor Arvidsson,<strong> </strong>Hampus Lindholm, Adam Larsson</p><p>Team Sweden's backbone is its blue line, which is on par with Canada's and maybe just a notch below USA's. The only issue? A lot of lefties. Dahlin regularly plays his off side, so that's no problem. But someone else will have to do the same in order to get Sweden's six best in the lineup. In this case, we opted to go with Brodin, who forms the ultimate shutdown pair with Forsling.</p><p>The toughest cut is unsurprisingly a defenseman in Lindholm. We chose Andersson as the seventh guy - a right-handed option in case having a lefty play his off side doesn't work out. Andersson's excellent season helps, too.</p><p>Sweden has enough overall talent to be a dark horse in this tournament if it can get strong goaltending from Markstrom or the red-hot Gustavsson.</p><h3>Finland 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/cropped_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/w220xh124_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/w320xh180_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/w640xh360_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/w768xh432_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/370835/w1080xh607_GettyImages-609784948.jpg?ts=1566053109 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Finland (forwards)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3SwXx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3SwXx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="287" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Sweden (Defensemen) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qeMHM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qeMHM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="177" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Team Finland (goalies)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-k12Id" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/k12Id/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Matias Maccelli, Eeli Tolvanen, Jani Hakanpaa</p><p>Only about 40 Finns have appeared in an NHL game this season. Such a limited pool makes the task of filling out an international roster easy.</p><p>Barkov, Aho, and Hintz combine for an intriguing 1-2-3 punch down the middle. Rantanen and Heiskanen are elite. The rest of the skater group is questionable, though - particularly the blue line. You can compete in a star-studded tournament with a Lindell-Heiskanen top pair, but Finland's 3-7 depth on defense is significantly worse than the three other countries.</p><p>Saros, the projected starter, is going to face <em>a ton</em> of rubber at this tourney.</p>

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4 Nations Face-Off roster predictions: Who makes the final cut?

Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba aren't the only New York Rangers players reportedly available.   K...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2542" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2542">Chris Kreider</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2912" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2912">Jacob Trouba</a> aren't the only New York Rangers players reportedly available. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8593" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8593">Kaapo Kakko</a>'s name has resurfaced in trade talks, sources told <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/video/insider-trading-updates-on-potential-signings-and-trades-involving-big-name-players~3037945">TSN's Darren Dreger</a>.</p><p>The Rangers took calls on Kakko ahead of the 2024 trade deadline, but no deal came to fruition. New York re-signed the Finnish winger to a one-year, $2.4-million deal in the offseason. He'll be a restricted free agent at season's end and can become unrestricted in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>General manager Chris Drury is reportedly looking to shake up the Rangers with a big trade and isn't opposed to dealing multiple players, including Kreider and Trouba.</p><p>Kakko has failed to meet expectations since New York drafted him second overall in 2019. His career-best season came in 2022-23 when he managed 18 goals and 22 assists. The 23-year-old has registered 12 points in 21 games this year.</p><p>The Rangers have several key pending free agents this offseason, including RFA <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9103" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9103">K'Andre Miller</a> and UFAs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7383" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7383">Ryan Lindgren</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8558" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8558">Igor Shesterkin</a>.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - NOVEMBER 23: Kaapo Kakko #24 of the New York Rangers skates against the Edmonton Oilers during the third period at Rogers Place on November 23, 2024 in Edmonton, Canada.

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Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Dean Evason was vocally displeased with the officiating during h...

<p>Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Dean Evason was vocally displeased with the officiating during his club's 4-3 overtime loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday.</p><p>Evason was particularly peeved by a missed call on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a> moments before the Canadiens captain scored the OT winner.</p><p>Suzuki appeared to grab <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10658" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10658">Kent Johnson</a>'s hip with his open hand and haul him down, but no penalty was called by referees Michael Sullivan and Brian Pochmara. With Johnson trailing behind the play, Montreal took full advantage of the three-on-two the other way and ended the game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE CAPTAIN CALLS GAME. 🤩<br><br>Nick Suzuki buries the <a href="https://twitter.com/SUBWAYCanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SUBWAYCanada</a> OT winner for Montreal! <a href="https://t.co/YzFhfLRhwW">pic.twitter.com/YzFhfLRhwW</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1861975168324603967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"You mean at the end when they didn't call the penalty, when the guy (Suzuki) grabbed (Johnson's) hip and pulled him back and then that guy went down and scored?" Evason said, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5954393/2024/11/28/blue-jackets-evason-overtime-call-canadiens/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Aaron Portzline</a>. "It's ridiculous! You know what? It's a human game, and I'd hope that we'd have a couple of the refs (available) - or at least one of them - to ask them what they see?"</p><p>NHL officials aren't required to speak to teams or media postgame.</p><p>"We have a two-on-one (with Johnson and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3000" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3000">Sean Monahan</a>). KJ is fresh. He's fresh on the ice. He's got a step on Suzuki. He's going and he's fast, and the guy reaches in, grabs him, pulls his hip, spins him, (Johnson) falls down, (the Canadiens) get the puck, they get a three-on-two (the other way) … it's crazy," Evason said.</p><p>"That can't be <em>not</em> a penalty. It makes no sense. I don't care if it's the first (period) or overtime, you cannot reach your hand in and grab a guy. Even if they're even, but (KJ) is ahead of him."</p><p>The defeat put an end to Columbus' three-game winning streak.</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - NOVEMBER 23: Head coach Dean Evason of the Columbus Blue Jackets looks up the video board during the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at Nationwide Arena on November 23, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio. Columbus defeated Carolina 5-4 in a shootout.

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