Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews doesn't think he should be talked about as a candidate t...

Toronto Maple Leafs star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> doesn't think he should be talked about as a candidate to break <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>'s new goals record."That's such a long ways away, or a long way to go," Matthews said Monday. "I don't think I should even be in that conversation. This guy just broke the record. I'm so far away from that, and it shouldn't really be a focus on myself. It rightfully so should be on Ovi and what he's been able to accomplish in his career, this record being one of them."Ovechkin netted his 895th career goal Sunday to pass Wayne Gretzky and break the NHL's all-time record.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Matthews has 398 goals in 623 total contests over his nine seasons with Toronto and is the active NHL leader in goals per game. The Leafs captain has seven more markers than Ovechkin did through 623 games, though the Washington Capitals superstar clears Matthews by 24 through nine campaigns.Maple Leafs forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> thinks his teammate has a shot at the record down the road."It's pretty crazy (to see Ovechkin break the record)," Knies said. "Obviously, I can't even count that high. That's pretty astonishing. Maybe we'll see (someone break it) down the line. (No.) 34 could do it."Matthews, for his part, was happy to see Ovechkin rewrite history."Just felt like everything just went right for him there," Matthews said. "It was in his spot, on the power play, the celebration, everything was amazing. Pretty cool to be able to witness that record being broken."

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 28: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals skates against Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period at Scotiabank Arena on March 28, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Matthews: I shouldn't be in conversation to break Ovi's record

The New York Rangers are 2-for-42 on the power play in their past 15 games, a fact defenseman Ada...

The New York Rangers are 2-for-42 on the power play in their past 15 games, a fact defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8555" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8555">Adam Fox</a> believes is a primary reason the team hasn't won enough games."It's the difference right now, right?" Fox said after New York's 4-0 loss to the New Jersey Devils on Saturday, according to the <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1908599235504750694">New York Post's Mollie Walker</a>. "The margin is so thin. I think five-on-five, we've been pretty good. You let up shorthanded goals, you let up power-play goals against, (and) you lose games by one-to-two (goals). Tie five-on-five or even win the five-on-five game, it's costing us. It has been for a little bit now."Since March 3, New York has outscored opponents 33-28 at five-on-five but has lost the special teams battle 14-7. With another shorthanded goal allowed against New Jersey, the Rangers have given up more shorthanded markers (three) than they have scored power-play goals (two) in this span.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2033" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2033">Mika Zibanejad</a> believes the power play has been a yearlong issue."It's the whole season," Zibanejad said, according to <a href="https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/1908602171634893258">USA Today Sports' Vince Mercogliano</a>. "We're close to dead last. That's not good enough."The Rangers' power play has operated at a 17.2% clip in 2024-25 to rank 27th in the NHL.Fox believes the man-advantage struggles have been compounding game by game."The execution is certainly not there, but I think when you go on one of those slumps, you start maybe trying to force the issue a little more," Fox said, per <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1908599632843723207">Walker</a>. "I think it could be a reason we're even giving up chances more than ever, too. It's not that we're not scoring, it's we're not even generating any momentum from it."Head coach Peter Laviolette suggested the shorthanded chances against are caused by the power play trying too hard to break through."We're looking for something offensively, maybe pressing too much," Laviolette said, according to <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1908600311486332963">Walker</a>. "Any time you're doing that, you're subject to get caught the other way."The Rangers remain two points out of the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

NEWARK, NJ - APRIL 05: Adam Fox #23 of the New York Rangers skates during warm up prior to the game against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on April 5, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Rangers' Fox: Power-play struggles 'the difference right now'

Trent Frederic made his Edmonton Oilers debut Saturday against the Los Angeles Kings.  Frederic h...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5614" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5614">Trent Frederic</a> made his Edmonton Oilers debut Saturday against the Los Angeles Kings.Frederic had been sidelined since Feb. 25 with a lower-body injury. The Oilers acquired the forward from the Boston Bruins on March 4 for second and fourth-round picks, as well as prospects <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/14670" href="https://thescore.com/ncaah/players/14670">Shane LaChance</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10750" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10750">Max Wanner</a>.The 27-year-old tallied eight goals, 15 points and 44 penalty minutes in 57 games with the Bruins this season. Frederic netted a career-high 18 goals and 40 points last year.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Frederic played on a line with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1882" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1882">Adam Henrique</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1723" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1723">Zach Hyman</a>.The Oilers are without star forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> because of injuries.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 14: Trent Frederic #11 of the Boston Bruins prepares for a face off during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at TD Garden on January 14, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Frederic makes Oilers debut vs. Kings

Boston College forward Ryan Leonard, Denver defenseman Zeev Buium, and Michigan State forward Isa...

Boston College forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13827">Ryan Leonard</a>, Denver defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15175">Zeev Buium</a>, and Michigan State forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12722" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12722">Isaac Howard</a> were announced Thursday as this year's Hobey Baker Award finalists.The Hobey Baker is presented annually to the top NCAA men's hockey player. San Jose Sharks rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a> won the award in 2024 with Boston University.Leonard leads the nation with 30 goals in 37 games and topped Boston College with 49 points. His Eagles ranked No. 1 heading into the NCAA championship tournament but lost to Denver in the Manchester regional final. The feisty winger turned pro on Monday, signing a three-year, entry-level contract with the Washington Capitals, who drafted him eighth overall in 2023. Leonard won MVP at the world juniors in January.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Johnny Gaudreau is the most recent Boston College player to win the Hobey Baker, earning the honor in 2014.Buium leads all college defensemen in scoring with 48 points in 40 games. The sophomore helped Denver advance to the Frozen Four with a goal and an assist against Boston College in the regional final and is the only Hobey Baker finalist still vying for the national title. The Minnesota Wild drafted Buium 12th overall last summer.Defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6514" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6514">Will Butcher</a> in 2017 was the last Pioneer to win the Hobey Baker.Howard ranks fifth in the NCAA in scoring with 52 points in 37 contests, but he leads the nation in points per game (1.41). His 26 goals are tied for third in the country. The Tampa Bay Lightning drafted the Michigan State standout 31st overall in 2022. Howard completed his junior campaign with the Spartans' loss against Cornell but has been unable to sign with the Lightning due to the team's cap restraints.A Michigan State player hasn't won the Hobey Baker since Ryan Miller captured the award in 2001.The Hobey Baker Award will be handed out April 11.

LOWELL, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 06: Ryan Leonard #9 of the Boston College Eagles warms up before a game against the UMass Lowell River Hawks during NCAA men's hockey at the Tsongas Center on December 6, 2024 in Lowell, Massachusetts. The game ended in a 3-3 tie with the River Hawks winning the extra point in a shootout.

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Leonard, Buium, Howard named Hobey Baker finalists

New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy announced Thursday that forward Anthony Duclair is taki...

New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy announced Thursday that forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3235" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3235">Anthony Duclair</a> is taking time away from the team to reflect, according to <a href="https://x.com/stefen_rosner/status/1907818870116675803">The Hockey News' Stefen Rosner</a>.Roy said he and Duclair had a long, positive conversation Thursday morning and the Islanders will give Duclair all the time he needs.Roy sharply <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3256241" href="https://thescore.com/news/3256241">criticized</a> Duclair on Tuesday, saying he was "god-awful" and "lucky to be in the lineup" after New York's loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He's not skating, he's not competing, he's not moving his feet," Roy added. "He's not playing up to what we expect from him. It's an effort thing."Duclair has seven goals and 11 points in 44 games this season but just four goals and five points in 34 contests since the start of 2025.The 29-year-old signed a four-year, $14-million contract with the Islanders last summer.Duclair previously played for Roy with the QMJHL's Quebec Remparts from 2011-13.

ELMONT, NY - MARCH 16: Anthony Duclair #11 of the New York Islanders during warm up prior to the game against the Florida Panthers at UBS Arena on March 16, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

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Duclair taking time away from Islanders

Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet believes a lack of composure cost his team in Wednesday...

Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet believes a lack of composure cost his team in Wednesday's critical 5-0 loss to the Seattle Kraken."I think that early on, saw a lot of nervousness," Tocchet said. "We had a couple power plays. You need some poise there. I didn't think we had some poise, then they got a couple of quick goals on us. You could see guys were getting nervous, chasing the game."I think we had some guys that really gave some effort, but I didn't think they had a lot of poise tonight."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Canucks are now eight points back of the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference with seven games to play."I know it's the same old thing coaches say, but you gotta keep getting at it, working at it. ... We just gotta relax in certain situations. Intensity, but relaxed," Tocchet added. " There's plays there that I just think we're not finding."Tocchet was disappointed in the Canucks' power play and the chances they could've generated but missed."Twice, there's a low play wide-open. We pass to the flank, or he shoots and gets blocked. ... I just saw nervous, a lot of nervous guys on that power play."Captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> acknowledged the Canucks' uphill battle but noted he still has belief in his team."It's not tough to believe, just 'cause we're in it, and it's the reality," Hughes said. "Everyone's looking at the standings daily and knows what the percentages are and whatnot. We know where we're at."Defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4553">Marcus Pettersson</a> understands the Canucks have to focus moving forward with little margin for error."It's deflating," Pettersson said. "We've gotta pick ourselves back up and get back into the fight."Pettersson added, "It is (challenging), but we have to. We're gonna fight right until the end. There's a lot of fight in this room. We're gonna make sure we come back strong this week."

VANCOUVER, CANADA - APRIL 2: Andre Burakovsky #95 of the Seattle Kraken celebrates his goal with teammates during the third period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on April 2, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Tocchet admits Canucks 'nervous' in costly shutout loss to Kraken

The Edmonton Oilers signed forward David Tomasek to a one-year contract worth $1.2 million for th...

The Edmonton Oilers signed forward David Tomasek to a one-year contract worth $1.2 million for the 2025-26 season, the team announced Wednesday.Tomasek tallied 24 goals and 57 points in 47 games to lead the Swedish league in scoring this season with Farjestad. The 29-year-old also led the SHL with 25 goals last year.It's the first NHL contract for the Czech international. Tomasek played seven seasons in the Czech league, two in Finland, and had a partial campaign in the KHL before moving to Sweden in 2023.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 6-foot-2, right-handed center has played for Czechia at the past two World Championships. He collected one goal and four points in 10 games last year as Czechia won gold on home ice.Tomasek played two seasons in the OHL with the Belleville Bulls from 2013-15.Edmonton general manager Stan Bowman traveled to Sweden to watch Tomasek play live during the 4 Nations Face-Off break, according to <a href="https://x.com/frank_seravalli/status/1907495411180294605">Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli</a>.Also Wednesday, the Oilers signed undrafted free agent Josh Samanski to a two-year, entry-level contract starting next season.Samanski recorded 14 goals and 40 points in 52 games this season with the Straubing Tigers in Germany's top league, the DEL. The 23-year-old led Straubing in points and was tied for 23rd in league scoring.The 6-foot-5 center played at the Spengler Cup in December. He tallied two goals and three points in five contests as Straubing lost in the final against HC Fribourg-Gotteron.Samanski spent two seasons in Canada with the OJHL's Brantford 99ers in 2018-19 and the OHL's Owen Sound Attack in 2019-20. He holds Canadian citizenship but was born in Germany and represents the country internationally.

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND - FEBRUARY 18: David Tomasek of Farjestad Karlstad in action during the Champions Hockey League Final 2025 between ZSC Lions Zurich and Farjestad Karlstad at Swiss Life Arena on February 18, 2025 in Zurich, Switzerland.

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Oilers sign SHL top scorer Tomasek to 1-year, $1.2M contract

The prospect of winning the Atlantic Division is on the mind of Toronto Maple Leafs captain Austo...

The prospect of winning the Atlantic Division is on the mind of Toronto Maple Leafs captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> down the stretch."I think (winning the division is) in the mindset for sure," Matthews <a href="https://youtu.be/FIyMgHBhBd4?si=Wl9rjy3rT4uEFJAO">said</a> Tuesday. "These last stretch of games, you just want to make sure that our game is moving in the right direction. I thought that trip ended off on the right note there in Anaheim. You just want to continue to build momentum going into these last seven, eight games."The forward added: "The standings are really tight. You want to go up and get that (division win), for sure." <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Tampa Bay Lightning (93 points) and Florida Panthers (92 points) are hot on the heels of the Maple Leafs, who are atop the Atlantic with 94 points. All three teams have played 74 games.Toronto has never won the Atlantic Division since realignment from the Northeast Division before the 2013-14 season. The Maple Leafs topped the North Division in 2020-21, their first division title since 1999-00.Toronto faces Florida on Wednesday night. The Maple Leafs are 0-2 against the Panthers this season."They've been tight games every single time we've played (Florida)," Matthews said. "It's just details. The margins are small. Just being structured in our game. Special teams, obviously, is really important with just how tight these games have been. Will be a good test and a good challenge." <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> reiterated the importance of Wednesday's contest."You see how tight the standings are," Knies said. "With our rivalry, it's pretty important. I think it's gonna be a playoff game."

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 13: Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs waits for a faceoff against the Florida Panthers during the second period in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on March 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Matthews: 'You want to go up and get' 1st in Atlantic Division

With less than three weeks remaining until the Stanley Cup Playoffs, theScore's NHL editors share...

With less than three weeks remaining until the Stanley Cup Playoffs, theScore's NHL editors share their insight on some of the biggest topics heading down the stretch.<h3>Which team grabs the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/cropped_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775468/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204775741.jpg?ts=1742095720 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Vitor Munhoz / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rangers. This is more a slog than a race, as no club has separated itself from the pack like St. Louis did out West. So when in doubt, give me the most talented team, and that's undoubtedly the underachieving Rangers. They have a tough schedule down the stretch, but if any of the vying clubs can dig deep and go on a bit of a run, I think it's New York. A red-hot Rangers squad would be the last opponent the Capitals want in Round 1. - Josh WegmanCanadiens. No team appears to truly want the final playoff spot in the East, leaving it up for grabs night in and night out. That said, I'm giving the Canadiens an edge based on schedules. The Habs have the Blackhawks, Predators, Flyers, Bruins, and Red Wings on their upcoming slate. The Hurricanes, Maple Leafs, and Senators are the only playoff teams on Montreal's remaining docket, and Martin St. Louis' crew has played Toronto and Ottawa tight this season. - Sean O'Leary<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Blue Jackets. This might be a long shot, but let me advocate for Columbus. Yes, the whole team forgot how to score for a second there. And yes, the Blue Jackets have an absolute gauntlet of a remaining schedule. However, they've been easy to root for this year after dedicating the season to the late Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Columbus has been able to rally around an unthinkable tragedy, and it'd be fitting to see the club's resilience get rewarded with a playoff berth. - Kayla Douglas<h3>Which potential Round 1 playoff matchup has you most excited?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/cropped_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778302/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204953870.jpg?ts=1743473112 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Michael Martin / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>Stars vs. Avalanche. I believe these are the two teams best equipped to win the Stanley Cup this year. It would be a shame to see one of them gone before Round 2, but it'll certainly make for must-see TV in Round 1. Both squads loaded up at the deadline. Mikko Rantanen burning his former club would make for one heck of a story. But the Stars could be in tough without Miro Heiskanen, who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245448" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245448">may</a> not be ready for the start of the playoffs. - WegmanPanthers vs. Lightning. The Panthers and Lightning have met in the postseason twice over the past three campaigns, and both series were bloodbaths. Each team went all-in at the trade deadline this year, creating a few notable storylines. Not only would one of the league's best rivalries be Brad Marchand's first series as a Panther, but a battle for Sunshine State supremacy would also represent the first meeting between Matthew Tkachuk and Brandon Hagel since they scrapped and chirped at the 4 Nations Face-Off. This matchup would have it all. - O'LearyMaple Leafs vs. Senators. Toronto fans might not be looking forward to this potential matchup, but it'd be a real treat for everyone who enjoys some good old-fashioned schadenfreude. The Senators always come to play against the Leafs, owning a 6-1-0 record against their Ontario rivals over the past two seasons. Throw in the fact that this would be the Brady Tkachuk-led core's first time in the playoffs, along with the Leafs' penchant for underperforming in the spring, and there could be a real upset looming. - Douglas<h3>Will Ovechkin break Gretzky's goal record this season? If so, which game?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/cropped_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777363/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206391225.jpg?ts=1743015237 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>April 13 vs. Blue Jackets. I'm going bold and saying Alex Ovechkin gets it done in Washington's final home game with a hat trick. He won't give fans much time to soak in the record-tying goal because he'll break it moments later. Ovi has always had a bit of a flair for the dramatic, so don't put it past him to make history in style. - WegmanApril 17 @ Penguins. Game 82 against the Pittsburgh Penguins is the best time for Ovechkin to do it. Let's paint the perfect scene: Ovechkin ties the record at any point before the Capitals' regular-season finale, and the focus of the hockey world is entirely on him as he gears up to play his biggest rival on the precipice of his biggest achievement. Playoff seeding is already locked up for Washington, and no one wants this to drag into next season. Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux are among the legends in attendance, and Sidney Crosby is on the ice to lend a hand in helping Ovechkin celebrate a moment that will live forever in hockey history. - O'LearyApril 10 vs. Hurricanes. Ovechkin has a razor-thin margin for error if he's going to break the record this season. He's been scoring once every other game for the past month, but notched goals in back-to-back contests for the first time since February on Tuesday. Now just three from tying and four from the record, Ovi nets four in as many games to reach 895 with room to spare. - Kyle Cushman

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NHL stretch-run roundtable: East's wild-card race, Ovi's date with history

The Vancouver Canucks are determined to sign head coach Rick Tocchet to an extension but will exe...

The Vancouver Canucks are determined to sign head coach Rick Tocchet to an extension but will exercise his team option for the 2025-26 season if necessary, reports <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/canucks-determined-to-sign-rick-tocchet-to-extension/">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.Tocchet would be among the most coveted head coaches if he became available this offseason. The Canucks are making it clear they want him to remain in Vancouver and that they have his contractual rights, reports Friedman.The 60-year-old won the Jack Adams Award last season as he guided the Canucks back to the playoffs with a 50-23-9 record. Vancouver has failed to match its success from a year ago and is six points out of the last wild-card spot in the Western Conference.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Tocchet has made it clear he has no interest in discussing his future publicly."I am so dialed in on (making the playoffs) that I really don't want to make it about me right now,” Tocchet told Sportsnet 650 in March.

VANCOUVER, CANADA - MARCH 16: Head coach Rick Tocchet of the Vancouver Canucks looks on from the bench during their NHL game against the Utah Hockey Club at Rogers Arena on March 16, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Report: Canucks will pick up Tocchet's option if he doesn't extend

The defending national champion Denver Pioneers knocked off the No. 1 overall seed Boston College...

The defending national champion Denver Pioneers knocked off the No. 1 overall seed Boston College Eagles 3-1 on Sunday to advance to the Frozen Four.San Jose Sharks prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/15914" href="https://thescore.com/ncaah/players/15914">Eric Pohlkamp</a> scored the opening goal, and Los Angeles Kings draft pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/15960" href="https://thescore.com/ncaah/players/15960">James Reeder</a> added to the Pioneers' lead in the second period. Minnesota Wild first-rounder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15175">Zeev Buium</a> iced the contest with an empty-netter.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15108" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15108">Teddy Stiga</a>, who was drafted by the Nashville Predators, tallied the Eagles' lone goal late in the second frame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Denver goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/14600" href="https://thescore.com/ncaah/players/14600">Matt Davis</a> made 35 saves and withstood a Boston College barrage in the third period. The Eagles outshot Denver 15-2 in the final frame but couldn't solve Davis.Denver beat Boston College to win the national championship last year."Really proud of our team," Denver head coach David Carle said, according to <a href="https://x.com/MikeMcMahonCHN/status/1906530077287850064">College Hockey Insider's Mike McMahon</a>. "Give BC a lot of credit. I have a lot of respect for them. It's really hard to end a team's season twice in a row."The Pioneers will face the Western Michigan Broncos in the national semifinals April 10. Western Michigan beat Denver in double overtime last Saturday to win the NCHC conference title.The Boston University Terriers will take on the Penn State Nittany Lions in the other semifinal game. It's the first time Penn State has made the national semifinals.Boston College ends its campaign without any trophies despite being the No. 1 seed at the national tournament. The Eagles lost the Beanpot against Boston University and were upset by Northeastern in the Hockey East quarterfinals.Multiple Boston College players, including top-10 Hobey Baker finalist <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13827">Ryan Leonard</a>, could turn pro now that their season is finished.Leonard tallied 49 points this season and led the NCAA with 30 goals. The right-winger won MVP at the world juniors with Team USA in January and is a two-time gold medalist at the tournament. Leonard was drafted eighth overall by the Washington Capitals in 2023.

MANCHESTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE - MARCH 30: Eric Pohlkamp #23 of the Denver Pioneers celebrates his goal against the Boston College Eagles during the first period during the NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Manchester Regional Championship final at the SNHU Arena on March 30, 2025 in Manchester, New Hampshire.

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Denver knocks off No. 1 Boston College, advances to Frozen Four

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner exited Wednesday's 4-3 loss against the Dallas Stars af...

Edmonton Oilers goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6553">Stuart Skinner</a> exited Wednesday's 4-3 loss against the Dallas Stars after his head collided with forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a>'s knee.Rantanen clipped Skinner midway through the third period. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said postgame he doesn't expect the netminder to travel to Seattle for Thursday's game against the Kraken, according to <a href="https://x.com/GenePrincipe/status/1905126263955861771">Sportsnet's Gene Principe</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="bluesky-embed" data-bluesky-uri="at://did:plc:lxt6xkam7xolymhsnqs4lirh/app.bsky.feed.post/3lldhzfx3z22q" data-bluesky-cid="bafyreib2fvt3nies5kzbre2mf6v4cjtzwyed4qow6jtsaqfajjwwxirk24" data-bluesky-embed-color-mode="system">
Stuart Skinner went down the tunnel and into the locker room after coming together with Mikko Rantanen at the top of the crease

#LetsGoOilers | #TexasHockey <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:lxt6xkam7xolymhsnqs4lirh/post/3lldhzfx3z22q?ref_src=embed">[image or embed]</a>— Hockey Daily 365 - NHL Highlights &amp; News 🏒 (<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:lxt6xkam7xolymhsnqs4lirh?ref_src=embed">@hockeydaily365.bsky.social</a>) <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:lxt6xkam7xolymhsnqs4lirh/post/3lldhzfx3z22q?ref_src=embed">Mar 27, 2025 at 12:36 AM</a>
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<script async="" src="https://embed.bsky.app/static/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1766">Calvin Pickard</a> replaced Skinner, who allowed four goals on 21 shots.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/34" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/34">Corey Perry</a> took responsibility for the Oilers' lack of response to Skinner's injury. "I didn't see it until afterwards, and I was very pissed at myself," Perry told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/oilers-toughness-in-question-after-tepid-response-to-stuart-skinner-injury/">Sportsnet's Mark Spector</a>.Perry added, "That's on me. I should never let that happen."When asked if Edmonton protects its goalies well enough, Perry said the team will discuss it internally. Skinner exited his previous start on March 20 against the Winnipeg Jets after the concussion spotter pulled him late in the third period.The 26-year-old entered Thursday's contest with a .895 save percentage and a 2.87 goals-against average in 48 games.The Oilers are already without star forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> due to injuries. Edmonton is third in the Pacific Division with 87 points, two behind the Los Angeles Kings for home-ice advantage in the first round.

EDMONTON, CANADA - MARCH 22: Stuart Skinner #74 of the Edmonton Oilers looks on during a stoppage in play during the game against the Seattle Kraken at Rogers Place on March 22, 2025 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Oilers' Skinner exits after his head hits Rantanen's knee

The Montreal Victoire became the first PWHL team to secure a spot in the Walter Cup playoffs with...

The Montreal Victoire became the first PWHL team to secure a spot in the Walter Cup playoffs with a 4-1 win against the Minnesota Frost on Wednesday.Victoire captain Marie-Philip Poulin opened the scoring in the first period before Laura Stacey netted the eventual winner 24 seconds into the second frame. Both players also added goals in the third period, with Poulin tallying her PWHL-leading 17th of the campaign. Elaine Chuli made 19 saves in the victory.The Victoire lead the PWHL with 48 points through 26 games. The league has a three-point system in which regulation wins are worth three points, overtime victories are worth two, and overtime/shootout losses are worth one.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Montreal finished second in the regular season last year and was swept by the Boston Fleet in the semifinals.The PWHL regular season expanded from 24 contests to 30 this campaign. Teams break for the World Championship from April 3-25, and the playoffs commence in May.

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Victoire become 1st PWHL team to clinch playoff spot

The New York Islanders were furious after their go-ahead goal with 9.6 seconds left was disallowe...

The New York Islanders were furious after their go-ahead goal with 9.6 seconds left was disallowed due to goaltender interference."To me, that's a goal all day long on the ice," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a> <a href="https://www.nhl.com/islanders/video/cbj-4-vs-nyi-3-bo-horvat-6370503755112">said</a>. "I don't know what's good and what's not anymore. To me, that was one of the worst (calls) I've seen.""I think it was f-----g embarrassing," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1756" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1756">Kyle Palmieri</a> added, according to <a href="https://x.com/StapeAthletic/status/1904361032987857096">The Athletic's Arthur Staple</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Palmieri bumped Columbus Blue Jackets netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8259" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8259">Elvis Merzlikins</a> moments before the puck entered the net.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@espnnhl/video/7485582046501326126" data-video-id="7485582046501326126" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;"> <section> <a target="_blank" title="@espnnhl" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@espnnhl?refer=embed">@espnnhl</a> The <a title="islanders'" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/islanders'?refer=embed">#Islanders'</a> lead-taking goal with 10 seconds left in regulation was called back due to goalie interference, and the <a title="bluejackets" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/bluejackets?refer=embed">#BlueJackets</a> won it in the shootout 👀 <a title="nhl" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/nhl?refer=embed">#NHL</a> <a title="hockey" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/hockey?refer=embed">#hockey</a> <a target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - NHL on ESPN" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7485582114159758126?refer=embed">♬ original sound - NHL on ESPN</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></figure>The Blue Jackets went on to win the contest in a shootout. The Islanders could've tied the Montreal Canadiens for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with a win."If (the review center in Toronto) is afraid to overturn calls made by the referee, we don't need Toronto," head coach Patrick Roy <a href="https://www.nhl.com/islanders/video/cbj-4-vs-nyi-3-patrick-roy-6370503380112">said</a>. "That's all I'm gonna say."Horvat noted it's difficult for players to understand what's allowed near the crease."I think that's the frustrating part, is we don't know (how to operate near the crease) anymore," Horvat said. "It's a guessing game all the time. We've been called back so many times it feels like in the last week to two, and it's just really getting frustrating when you're pushing for a playoff spot."That's obviously a game-winning goal, late in a hockey game. To me, it's unacceptable."

ELMONT, NEW YORK - MARCH 24: Kyle Palmieri #21 of the New York Islanders bumps Elvis Merzlikins #90 of the Columbus Blue Jackets in overtime which led to a disallowed goal at UBS Arena on March 24, 2025 in Elmont, New York. The Blue Jackets defeated the Islanders 4-3 in overtime.

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Isles irate after 'embarrassing' goalie interference call nixes winner

Atlanta Drive GC topped New York Golf Club 6-5 in the opening match of the best-of-three TGL Fina...

Atlanta Drive GC topped New York Golf Club 6-5 in the opening match of the best-of-three TGL Finals on Monday.New York's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1213" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1213">Xander Schauffele</a> <a href="https://x.com/TGL/status/1904373119487283258">missed a 6-foot, 5-inch putt</a> on the final hole that would've extended the match to a best-of-three, closest-to-the-pin competition.Atlanta won the final two holes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1771" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1771">Billy Horschel</a> was on fire, <a href="https://x.com/TGL/status/1904364933346717917">burying an 11-foot putt</a> on No. 11 after a hammer throw to tie the match at 4-4. He later set up Atlanta's win on the 14th hole with a <a href="https://x.com/TGL/status/1904369986539323677">superb tee shot</a>."Billy making that putt when the hole was worth two points there in the beginning of singles, that was really the momentum turner, I thought, for the match," Atlanta's Patrick Cantlay <a href="https://tglgolf.com/videos/2025/03/25/jt--we-felt-the-hostile-crowd--it-was-awesome">said</a>. "We needed it and Billy stepped up."The match was tied 2-2 after nine holes of triples."We do what we've done all season. We've gotta find some way to win, whether we come out and all three play great or one of us has to help out someone who's down," Horschel said. "We've found a way to win every match, and hopefully we can do that again tomorrow night."Atlanta goes for the $9-million prize Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET. If necessary, Match 3 will follow at 9 p.m. ET.

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA - MARCH 24: Billy Horschel of Atlanta Drive GC celebrates on the fourth hole during their TGL presented by SoFi match against the New York Golf Club at SoFi Center on March 24, 2025 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

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Atlanta takes Match 1 of TGL Finals after Schauffele misses putt

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed NCAA free-agent forward Luke Haymes to a two-year, entry-level con...

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed NCAA free-agent forward Luke Haymes to a two-year, entry-level contract beginning next season, the team announced Monday.Haymes tallied 12 goals and 18 points in 22 games with the Dartmouth Big Green this season as a junior. The Ottawa native had a breakout campaign last year when he recorded 18 goals and 36 points in 31 contests.The 21-year-old excelled in the faceoff dot, winning 63.1% of his draws this campaign.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Haymes was ranked No. 1 among NCAA free agents this year by <a href="https://www.eliteprospects.com/news/nhl-prospects/the-elite-prospects-2025-ncaa-free-agency-guide">Elite Prospects</a>.The 6-foot-1 center was named an ECAC First Team All-Star in 2023-24. He'll join the AHL's Toronto Marlies for the rest of the campaign.Haymes attended the Maple Leafs' development camp in 2023, and he was at the Tampa Bay Lightning's rookie camp last summer.The Maple Leafs inked NCAA free-agent defenseman John Prokop to a one-year, entry-level contract starting next season on March 20.

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 12: Toronto Maple Leafs logo pictured at centre ice at the Scotiabank Arena on January 12, 2019 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Maple Leafs sign Dartmouth's Haymes to 2-year ELC

The Toronto Sceptres activated forward Sarah Nurse from long-term injured reserve ahead of the te...

The Toronto Sceptres activated forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15850" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15850">Sarah Nurse</a> from long-term injured reserve ahead of the team's contest against the Montreal Victoire, the team announced Sunday.Nurse sustained a lower-body injury on Feb. 6 while competing with Team Canada at the Rivalry Series. She missed nine games due to the ailment.The 30-year-old has five goals and 12 points in 15 games this season after finishing second in PWHL scoring with 11 goals and 23 points in 24 contests last season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nurse was named to Canada's World Championship roster Friday.Sunday's game against the Victoire will mark the first time Toronto has had a fully healthy lineup all season.The Sceptres placed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pwhl/players/15861" href="https://thescore.com/pwhl/players/15861">Noemi Neubauerova</a> on the team's reserve list in a corresponding roster move. The rookie has zero points in 20 games.Toronto is third in the PWHL with 39 points.

TORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 25: Sarah Nurse #20 of Toronto Sceptres looks on before a face-off against the New York Sirens during the second period at Scotiabank Arena on January 25, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Sceptres activate Nurse from LTIR

Forward Elias Pettersson didn't return to the Vancouver Canucks' 5-3 loss against the New York Ra...

Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> didn't return to the Vancouver Canucks' 5-3 loss against the New York Rangers after the second period due to an undisclosed injury.Pettersson had 15 goals and 45 points entering Saturday's contest. He missed six games earlier in the season with an undisclosed injury.The 26-year-old has rounded into form recently with three goals and nine points in his last six games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9827">Nils Hoglander</a> also didn't return due to injury. He has six goals and 21 points in 65 contests.Head coach Rick Tocchet wasn't optimistic about having either player for Monday's game against the New Jersey Devils."If you had to ask me now, (they) would probably be doubtful, but we're going to have to call somebody up. ... We'll have to get a (center) up here," the bench boss <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nhl.com/canucks/video/postgame-tocchet-at-rangers-6370395301112">told reporters</a> postgame.The Canucks sit three points out of the second Western Conference wild-card spot behind the St. Louis Blues, who defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 on Saturday. The Blues have played one more game than Vancouver.The Canucks are in the midst of a six-game road trip that started with a 4-3 overtime loss to the Blues on Thursday.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 22: Elias Pettersson #40 of the Vancouver Canucks skates with the puck against Chris Kreider #20 of the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on March 22, 2025 in New York City.

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Pettersson exits loss vs. Rangers with undisclosed injury

Chicago Blackhawks forward Pat Maroon confirmed Saturday that he plans to retire after the season...

Chicago Blackhawks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/921" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/921">Pat Maroon</a> confirmed Saturday that he plans to retire after the season."It's tough. Sometimes you've gotta give up everything you know and everything you dreamed of your whole life," Maroon told <a href="https://x.com/CHSN_Blackhawks/status/1903524300520403087">CHSN's Darren Pang</a> ahead of the Blackhawks' clash against the St. Louis Blues."I just know it's time for me, and it's time for my family to go start a new chapter in our lives."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Maroon is a native of St. Louis. Chicago named the 36-year-old to the starting lineup Saturday for what will be his last contest in his hometown."To have a special moment tonight and be in St. Louis, to have my family come in town. I won a Stanley Cup here. I'm just gonna finish this year as every game is gonna be my last game," Maroon said. "I'm gonna play as hard as I can and do everything I can to keep winning hockey."Maroon has four goals, 16 points, and 81 penalty minutes in 59 games this season. He signed a one-year deal with Chicago last summer worth $1.3 million.He entered Saturday's matchup with 125 goals, 320 points, and 1,071 penalty minutes across 839 NHL contests. Maroon's played for eight teams over his career, with his most notable stints coming with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, Edmonton Oilers, and St. Louis Blues.Maroon won three consecutive Stanley Cups from 2019-21 - one with the Blues and two with the Lightning. He was the first player since 1983 to win three straight Cups.In 2016-17, Maroon netted a career-high 27 goals with the Oilers. He tallied a career-best 43 points in 2017-18 between the Oilers and New Jersey Devils.The Philadelphia Flyers drafted Maroon 161st overall in 2007.

COLUMBUS, OHIO - FEBRUARY 22: Patrick Maroon #77 of the Chicago Blackhawks warms up prior to a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on February 22, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Blackhawks' Maroon to retire after season

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice has a straightforward plan as his team faces Alex Ovechk...

Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice has a straightforward plan as his team faces <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> and the Washington Capitals on Saturday."We're just going to try and keep the big guy under seven (goals)," Maurice said, according to <a href="https://floridahockeynow.com/panthers-plan-for-ovechkin-keep-the-big-guy-under-7/">Florida Hockey Now's George Richards</a>. "Keep him under seven, then we can get out of town."Ovechkin is seven goals from breaking Wayne Gretzky's NHL record of 894 career goals. "The Gr8 Chase" has been in full swing this season, as Ovechkin has racked up 35 tallies in 53 games to put himself on the brink of history.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 39-year-old has tormented the Panthers over his 20 seasons. Forty-five of Ovechkin's 888 career goals have come against Florida in 73 total contests. The tally's the sixth most Ovechkin has against one franchise.Ovechkin has 13 games left to break the record this season. The Capitals are the only team to have clinched a playoff spot so far.

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 4: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals takes a shot for an empty net goal bringing his total goals to 878 during a game against the Florida Panthers at Capital One Arena on February 4, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

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Panthers' plan for Ovechkin: 'Keep him under 7'

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Kyle Cushman

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theScore Staff

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Sean O'Leary

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