The Minnesota Wild anticipate top prospect Zeev Buium will sign an entry-level contract to join t...

<p>The Minnesota Wild anticipate top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15175">Zeev Buium</a> will sign an entry-level contract to join the club any day now - just in time to suit up for the playoffs.</p><p>"He will play," general manager Bill Guerin said of Buium's postseason availability, per <a href="https://x.com/JoeSmithNHL/status/1910795811778445434">The Athletic's Joe Smith</a>. "These kids are different, man. They're ready for this stuff."</p><p>Buium's sophomore season at the University of Denver ended Thursday after a double overtime loss to Western Michigan in the Frozen Four semifinals. The 19-year-old had a standout campaign in which he recorded 48 points in 41 games while also helping the United States to its second consecutive world junior gold medal. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He was named a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award as college hockey's top player.</p><p>The Wild have three regular-season contests remaining and enter Friday's slate holding the top wild-card seed in the Western Conference. They have the same amount of points as the St. Louis Blues but have one game in hand.</p><p>Minnesota drafted Buium 12th overall in 2024.</p>

TEMPE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 07: Zeev Buium #28 of University of Denver Pioneers skates with the puck against the Arizona State University Sun Devils at Mullett Arena on February 07, 2025 in Tempe, Arizona.

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Wild expect Buium to sign soon, make impact: 'He will play'

Injured Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk is doing all he can to be ready for his first appea...

<p>Injured Ottawa Senators captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> is doing all he can to be ready for his first appearance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.</p><p>"I need to make sure I'm ready physically because mentally I've been waiting for this moment," Tkachuk told <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/brady-tkachuk-getting-ready-physically-for-1st-playoff-series-with-ottawa-senators">NHL.com</a>. "But I'm not worried about that."</p><p>The Senators clinched a playoff berth Tuesday for the first time since 2016-17, but Tkachuk has been out of action since March 30 because of an upper-body ailment.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's unclear if Tkachuk will suit up in Ottawa's four remaining contests, but he anticipates he'll be ready for Game 1 of the postseason.</p><p>"I don't think I'd ever miss an opportunity to play in the playoffs, but I'm not looking too far in advance. I'm looking forward to skating tomorrow, feeling good and going from there," Tkachuk said.</p><p>He added, "Obviously, I want to play. I don't like watching. The guys have really helped me out the last bunch of games, putting us in the position that we're in."</p><p>The Senators hold the top wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, three points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens with a crucial meeting between the two clubs on tap Friday. The first wild-card seed will play the Atlantic Division winner.</p><p>Tkachuk has notched 29 goals and 26 assists in 71 games this season.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 27: Brady Tkachuk #7 of the Ottawa Senators looks on against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on March 27, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Sens' Tkachuk getting 'ready physically' for 1st taste of playoffs

Pending unrestricted free agent Brock Boeser doesn't expect to sign a new deal with the Vancouver...

<p>Pending unrestricted free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6354" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock Boeser</a> doesn't expect to sign a new deal with the Vancouver Canucks. </p><p>"Honestly, it's unlikely at this point," Boeser told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/it-hurts-canucks-missing-playoffs-a-result-of-misfortune-and-mistakes/">Sportsnet's Iain MacIntyre</a> on Tuesday. "It sucks, it's unfortunate. I'm just trying to play good hockey, and then I'll worry about everything after that. We all know it's been a roller coaster of a year. There's been a lot of different things."</p><p>Boeser's in the final season of a three-year, $19.95-million contract and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3227585" href="https://thescore.com/news/3227585">expressed frustration</a> in February about a lack of extension talks. He drew interest at the trade deadline as a possible rental, but Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said any offers were below market value.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Canucks also wanted to keep Boeser in their push for the playoffs, but the club was mathematically eliminated from contention Wednesday night with four games remaining.</p><p>Boeser acknowledged he isn't speaking with agent Ben Hankinson right now as he focuses on finishing the campaign on a high note.</p><p>"Yeah, I'm refusing to talk to Hank right now," Boeser said. "I feel like I'm playing a lot better hockey recently, and I don't want to get distracted. That's one of the things I've learned: When there's distractions, I don't play my best hockey. The mental aspect of the game is so important. This year, there's been a lot of distractions."</p><p>The Canucks have had a tumultuous season riddled with injuries and drama, most notably a feud between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a> that culminated with the latter being traded to the New York Rangers. The disappointing campaign comes on the heels of winning the Pacific Division and reaching Game 7 of the second round in 2023-24.</p><p>Boeser is likely to attract plenty of interest on the open market in the summer. The 28-year-old has 433 points in 550 career games and has eclipsed the 25-goal mark four times, including a personal-high 40 last season.</p><p>The Canucks drafted Boeser 23rd overall in 2015.</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - MARCH 28: Brock Boeser #6 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates a goal during the first period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on March 28, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Boeser: Remaining with Canucks 'unlikely at this point'

Welcome to the sixth edition of theScore's 2024-25 Vezina Trophy Rankings, a monthly look at the ...

<p>Welcome to the sixth edition of theScore's 2024-25 Vezina Trophy Rankings, a monthly look at the top goaltenders across the NHL. </p><p>We've reached the final two weeks of the regular season, and there are no surprises left in the race. Rather than analyzing who's been hot of late, like we did in previous instalments of this series, this edition factors in the entire campaign as it comes to a close.</p><p>GSAA = <em>Goals saved above average</em><br>GSAx = <em>Goals saved above expected</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>5. Jake Oettinger, Dallas Stars</h3><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/cropped_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750271/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175692859.jpg?ts=1729182006 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>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36-15-4</td>
<td>2.45</td>
<td>.912</td>
<td>17.51</td>
<td>25.69</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Oettinger hasn't been consistent enough to warrant serious consideration, but he ranks among the top 10 in all the above criteria and has backstopped a Stanley Cup-contending Stars team that's blown past the 100-point plateau. That's enough for a fringe spot on our list.</p><p>The 26-year-old is widely seen as talented enough to compete for the Vezina year in and year out, but a few dips in performance over the campaign took him out of the running. He posted an .896 save percentage in 10 November games, and an inflated 3.21 goals against average in February. He's rounded into form as the playoffs near, though, registering a .919 clip in 12 appearances since the beginning of March.</p><h3>4. Logan Thompson, Capitals</h3><p><em>Previous: 3</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/cropped_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765955/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193806521.jpg?ts=1737152817 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>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>31-6-6</td>
<td>2.49</td>
<td>.910</td>
<td>8.37</td>
<td>24.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Thompson's struggles down the stretch have knocked him out of podium position for the first time in months. His 6-3-1 record since March 1 is respectable, but his other stats have taken a huge hit. Thompson owns a .876 save percentage over that stretch, and ranks toward the bottom of the league with minus-6.28 GSAA and minus-2.14 GSAx. </p><p>On top of performance issues, Thompson's recent injury could be the death knell in his Vezina finalist chances. </p><h3>3. Darcy Kuemper, Kings</h3><p><em>Previous: Unranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/cropped_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755303/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183958079.jpg?ts=1731561541 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Martin / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>28-11-7</td>
<td>2.03</td>
<td>.922</td>
<td>24.06</td>
<td>29.32</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>While Thompson's plummeted, Kuemper's surged into the mix with a dominant stretch. His lack of ice time hurts his case, but Kuemper forced himself into the conversation by winning 10 of his last 15 starts with a .940 save percentage and three shutouts. He trails only our top two candidates in both GSAA and GSAx on the season, and ranks second in goals against average among netminders to make 40 appearances.</p><p>There were a lot of questions about the Kings' decision to acquire Kuemper from the Capitals after two underwhelming seasons in D.C., but it's turned out to be a savvy move that's panned out for both sides. If this Kuemper shows up in the playoffs, the Kings are a major threat to go on a run. </p><h3>2. Andrei Vasilevskiy, Lightning</h3><p><em>Previous: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/cropped_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755423/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184087368.jpg?ts=1731639017 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>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>37-20-3</td>
<td>2.14</td>
<td>.923</td>
<td>34.16</td>
<td>29.55</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Vasilevskiy looks poised to be a Vezina finalist for the fourth time in his 11-year career, but is still an extreme long shot to win - he's up against a guy who's had the trophy all but locked up since November. Still, the Lightning netminder has had a remarkable bounce-back season after posting the worst statistical campaign of his NHL tenure in 2023-24.</p><p>The 2021 Conn Smythe winner ranks second in virtually every important category this season and has re-emerged as one of the league's elite netminders. We shouldn't be surprised at Vasilevskiy's resurgence, but teams in the Eastern Conference playoff bracket should be worried.</p><h3>1. Connor Hellebuyck, Jets</h3><p><em>Previous: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/cropped_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777833/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206414423.jpg?ts=1743219579 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Record</th>
<th>GAA</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>GSAA</th>
<th>GSAx</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>44-12-3</td>
<td>2.02</td>
<td>.924</td>
<td>36.3</td>
<td>45.52</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Hellebuyck has been the best, most consistent netminder all season long, and it would be a travesty if he weren't named the back-to-back Vezina Trophy winner. He leads the league in wins, goals against average, save percentage, GSAA, GSAx, and shutouts, <em>and</em> his team is on track to win the Presidents' Trophy. Even though there have been some good seasons behind him on this list, it wouldn't be a shock if Hellebuyck unanimously takes the award.</p><p>With the Vezina Trophy sewn up, the conversation should shift to whether he also deserves the Hart Trophy. </p><p>(Analytics source: <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/stats/goalie_standard/?_inputs_&amp;std_gl_table=%22On-Ice%22&amp;std_gl_team=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_str=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_adj=%22Score%20%26%20Venue%22&amp;std_gl_range=%22Seasons%22&amp;std_gl_span=%22Regular%22&amp;std_gl_group=%22Team%2C%20Season%22&amp;std_gl_age1=%2217%22&amp;std_gl_age2=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_dft_yr=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_status=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_info=%22No%22&amp;std_gl_players=null&amp;std_gl_fa=%2250%22">Evolving-Hockey</a>)</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 5: Darcy Kuemper #35 of the Los Angeles Kings protects the goal during the second period against the Edmonton Oilers at Crypto.com Arena on April 5, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Vezina Trophy Rankings: Kuemper making case to be finalist

The Ottawa Senators clinched a playoff spot on Tuesday night for the first time since the 2016-17...

<p>The Ottawa Senators clinched a playoff spot on Tuesday night for the first time since the 2016-17 season.</p><p>The Columbus Blue Jackets convincingly defeated the Senators, but the latter qualified for the postseason because the Detroit Red Wings lost to the Montreal Canadiens.</p><p>"After a game like that, it doesn't feel as good, but we've been through some shit here, and I'm just proud of the guys," Senators forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9189" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9189">Tim Stutzle</a> said, per <a href="https://x.com/SunGarrioch/status/1909786657051890124">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Some of us have been at it seven, eight years without a playoff game," added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9905" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9905">Drake Batherson</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/jkamckenzie/status/1909787448386744778">The Athletic's Julian McKenzie</a>.</p><p>The Senators' position in the playoff field is far from decided with four games remaining. Ottawa holds the top wild-card seed in the Eastern Conference, three points up on the Montreal Canadiens and four points back of the Florida Panthers for third in the Atlantic Division.</p><p>Ottawa and Montreal play each other Friday in what stands to be a pivotal contest as the season winds down.</p><p>The Senators' playoff hopes looked bleak after a five-game losing streak at the end of February, but Ottawa flipped its fortunes with a 13-5-2 run since March 1. </p><p>The Sens reached overtime of Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Final during their last playoff run. They underwent a lengthy rebuild afterward, drafting core talents <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a>, and Stutzle.</p><p>This is Ottawa's first season under head coach Travis Green and its first full campaign under general manager Steve Staios, who took over for Pierre Dorion in November 2023.</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - APRIL 8: Fabian Zetterlund #20 of the Ottawa Senators is congratulated by Adam Gaudette #81 and Thomas Chabot #72 after scoring a goal during the second period of the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on April 8, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Senators book 1st playoff berth since 2017

The Winnipeg Jets cooled off the white-hot St. Louis Blues on Monday night, snapping their divisi...

<p>The Winnipeg Jets cooled off the white-hot St. Louis Blues on Monday night, snapping their division rival's 12-game winning streak with a 3-1 victory on home ice.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6386" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6386">Alex Iafallo</a> scored the winning goal seven minutes into the third period before captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2147" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2147">Adam Lowry</a> buried an empty-netter in the final seconds.</p><p>Winnipeg limited St. Louis to only 15 shots. The Blues had been the league's hottest offense during their unbeaten run, averaging nearly four goals per game. The Jets' smothering performance earned them their 53rd win, their most ever in a season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"That was a really solid 60 minutes of going out in five-man units and out-battling," Jets head coach Scott Arniel <a href="https://www.nhl.com/jets/video/arniel-25-04-07-6371203048112">said</a>. "I thought all four lines won their matchups, along with the D-men, obviously."</p><p>"When you do that, with 20 guys doing that, that's a tough team to beat."</p><p>The Blues' 12-game streak established a franchise record and was the longest by any team this season. St. Louis could have clinched a playoff berth with a victory Monday along with a regulation loss by the Calgary Flames, but the Blues still hold the top wild-card spot in the Western Conference at 93 points.</p><p>"The streak was great while it lasted," Blues head coach Jim Montgomery <a href="https://x.com/StLouisBlues/status/1909443223807783093">said</a>. "Now we've got to refocus and we've got to play better than we did tonight to try and get in the playoffs. That's our focus."</p><p>The Jets widened their gap atop the Central Division with 110 points. They're also three points up on the Washington Capitals in the Presidents' Trophy race.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - APRIL 7: Alex Iafallo #9 of the Winnipeg Jets shoots the puck past goaltender Joel Hofer #30 of the St. Louis Blues and into the open net for a third period goal at the Canada Life Centre on April 7, 2025 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Jets end Blues' win streak at 12 games

Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov entered rarified air with a first-period helper in ...

<p>Tampa Bay Lightning superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3322" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3322">Nikita Kucherov</a> entered rarified air with a first-period helper in Monday's win over the New York Rangers, becoming only the fourth player in NHL history to register three consecutive 80-assist seasons.</p><p>The other players to do so are Hall of Famers Wayne Gretzky (1979-92), Paul Coffey (1983-86), and Bobby Orr (1969-72), according to <a href="https://x.com/NHLPR/status/1909400425301783012">NHL Public Relations</a>.</p><p>Kucherov added another assist in the third period, helping the Lightning to a 5-1 victory. He became only the fifth player to record 100 assists in a single season last year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He leads all skaters with 263 assists over the past three seasons and only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> boasts more points during that span.</p><p>Here's a look at Kucherov's numbers over the past three campaigns.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Season</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2022-23</td>
<td>82</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>83</td>
<td>113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023-24</td>
<td>81</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>100</td>
<td>144</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024-25</td>
<td>73</td>
<td>34</td>
<td>81</td>
<td>115</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Bolts' playmaker is now tied <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> in this season's scoring race with five games remaining. MacKinnon, who beat out Kucherov for the Hart Trophy in 2024, has four contests left.</p><p>Kucherov captured the MVP and Art Ross in 2019, and he added a second scoring title to his resume last season.</p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - APRIL 01: Nikita Kucherov #86 of the Tampa Bay Lightning skates against the New York Islanders during the game at UBS Arena on April 01, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

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Kucherov joins legendary list with 3rd straight 80-assist season

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a 14-year, $500-million extension, sour...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> and the Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a 14-year, $500-million extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1909097481302061151">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The development comes several weeks after Guerrero's self-imposed extension deadline, which he set for the beginning of spring training. The Blue Jays <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3251507" href="https://thescore.com/news/3251507">reportedly</a> made their first baseman an offer in late March, but a gap between the two sides persisted.</p><p>It will take another few days to finalize the contract, as the agreement is pending a physical and the Blue Jays are in the middle of a road trip, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/1909359556485841362">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Guerrero was on track to become a free agent at season's end. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224245" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224245">noted</a> in February that he'd meet with all 30 teams if he hit the open market.</p><p>His deal with the Blue Jays features no deferrals, a source told <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/1909097475597643862">Davidi</a>. It also doesn't include any opt outs, per <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1909209407675654160">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>. The $500-million contract is the second-richest in MLB in terms of present value, trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>'s $765-million pact with the New York Mets, which was signed over the winter.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>'s $700-million agreement is currently valued at approximately $437.8 million because of deferrals, per <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1909101278526906840">Nicholson-Smith</a>.</p><p>The Blue Jays signed Guerrero as an international free agent in 2015, and he ascended into baseball's top prospect before debuting with Toronto in 2019 as a 20-year-old. He's accrued 17.0 fWAR over his seven-year career while slashing .287/.362/.498 and belting 160 home runs.</p><p>His best year came in 2021 when he finished runner-up as the American League's most valuable player. He set career highs across the board that season, including 48 homers and 111 runs batted in.</p><p>The Blue Jays have made the playoffs three times with Guerrero in the fold but lost the wild-card round each time.</p>

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 31: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of Toronto Blue Jays jogs off the field in the middle of the first inning against the Washington Nationals in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on March 31, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Blue Jays, Guerrero agree to 14-year, $500M extension

Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson is best known for stirring up controversy with his physica...

<p>Washington Capitals forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a> is best known for stirring up controversy with his physical style of play, but he claimed a huge piece of hockey history Sunday, recording the primary assist on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>'s record-breaking 895th goal.</p><p>Speaking after the game, Wilson expressed plenty of gratitude for being involved in the play.</p><p>"It's not about me," Wilson <a href="https://www.nhl.com/capitals/video/tom-wilson-postgame-6371151111112">said</a>. "It makes me a little bit emotional just because I think so much of him. To be able to be beside him forever in a big goal, I feel very lucky, I feel very honored to be a part of that. It's not about me at all. I'm just really proud. I love that guy, I love his family, and I'm really proud of him."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wilson added, "It will be the honor of my career to play with 'O,' learn so much from him, win with him, watch him score this goal. There's really no words to describe it."</p><p>Ovechkin eclipsed Wayne Gretzky's 31-year-old record with a vintage wrist shot during the second period of Sunday's loss to the New York Islanders. Wilson recalls sending the puck cross-ice to Ovechkin, but what followed is blurry. </p><p>"I just tried to find him on the entry there, and then when I was skating to the net and the puck went in the net, the next 15 seconds I truly kind of blacked out," Wilson said. "I've got to watch it back because I don't remember what happened. It was just chaos."</p><p>The Capitals mobbed Ovechkin after the goal, and the game was stopped for a ceremony involving the captain's family, Gretzky, and others.</p><p>"It's the biggest goal in the history of the NHL," Wilson said. "To be in here with all our best friends and a great captain, a great teammate, a great friend, I'm just so proud of him. I'm so happy for him. He's done so much for all of us, all of our careers. This organization, this city, his family, all our families. It's just truly special to be a part of, and I'm just so, so happy for him."</p><p>Wilson debuted with the Capitals in 2013-14 and won the Stanley Cup with Ovechkin in 2018. The pair flanks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4562" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4562">Dylan Strome</a> - who registered the secondary assist - on Washington's top line.</p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - APRIL 6: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals poses for a photo with the puck from his 895th career goal with Dylan Strome #17 and Tom Wilson #43, who assisted the goal, in the locker room after a game against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on April 6, 2025 in Elmont, New York. With this goal, Ovechkin passes Wayne Gretzky for the all-time goal scoring record.

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Wilson: I feel 'honored' to assist Ovechkin's record-breaking goal

The St. Louis Blues defeated the Colorado Avalanche 5-4 Saturday night to establish a new franchi...

<p>The St. Louis Blues defeated the Colorado Avalanche 5-4 Saturday night to establish a new franchise record with 12 consecutive wins.</p><p>The Blues' previous mark of 11 was set in 2018-19 when they rallied midseason before capturing the Stanley Cup that spring. Their current run is the longest streak by any team this season.</p><p>Head coach Jim Montgomery, who the Blues hired in November after the Boston Bruins let him go, credited his squad's resilience.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I am proud of that group in there to be able to overcome all of the adversity that we've had this year," Montgomery said, per <a href="https://x.com/jprutherford/status/1908709657734005132">The Athletic's Jeremy Rutherford</a>. "Whether that was self-inflicted by us, it doesn't matter, we've overcome it. I'm proud of that group for what they've achieved."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/jprutherford/status/1908708273215189224">added</a>, "And we've lost some really good, important players to our lineup. It means we're good. We're a good hockey team."</p><p>The Blues are without forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9214" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9214">Dylan Holloway</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4482" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4482">Colton Parayko</a> because of long-term injuries.</p><p>The victory extended St. Louis' lead to four points over the Minnesota Wild for the Western Conference's top wild-card spot, though the Wild have a game in hand. The higher wild-card team is likely to play the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round of the playoffs, while the lower seed is on track to face the West-leading Winnipeg Jets.</p><p>The Blues jumped out to a 4-0 lead midway through the second period on the strength of two goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10684" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10684">Zack Bolduc</a> and three assists from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6443" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6443">Robert Thomas</a>. Colorado clawed back to make it 4-3 late in the third period, but Thomas added an empty-netter to seal the victory. </p><p>St. Louis' run began March 15. Over that span, they rank first in the NHL in goals for (46) and against (18). The club owns the sixth-best record in the NHL (33-16-6) since Montgomery became coach.</p><p>The Blues will look to make it 13 wins in a row Monday against the Jets. </p>

ST. LOUIS, MO - APRIL 5: Pavel Buchnevich #89 of the St. Louis Blues celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Colorado Avalanche on April 5, 2025 at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Blues set franchise record with 12th straight win

Sidney Crosby was among the countless hockey fans glued to their screens Friday night as Alex Ove...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> was among the countless hockey fans glued to their screens Friday night as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> tied Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record.</p><p>"It was pretty exciting," Crosby told <a href="https://x.com/JoshYohe_PGH/status/1908647015166447958">The Athletic's Josh Yohe</a>. "Just that last couple of minutes, when he kept pushing, trying to get that next one. For anyone who is a fan of the game and appreciates what he's doing, it's pretty cool to see. I thought he was going to get it last night. What he's done this year is pretty incredible. Matter of time."</p><p>Ovechkin scored two goals against the Chicago Blackhawks to bring his career total to 894. He had numerous chances at a record-breaking hat trick in the third period but will resume his chase Sunday against the New York Islanders.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Washington Capitals captain ranks third in the NHL this season with 41 goals in only 60 games after missing time with a broken tibia. He's hit the 40-goal plateau in 14 of his 20 campaigns.</p><p>Ovechkin and Crosby debuted in the 2005-06 season. Their Hall of Fame careers have intertwined ever since, as they've rewritten record books and faced off in multiple playoff battles.</p><p>Crosby has also earned his share of history this campaign, hitting the 600-goal and 1,600-point plateaus while setting an NHL record with his 20th consecutive point-per-game season.</p><p>Ovechkin and Crosby meet once more this regular season, closing their schedules with a clash in Pittsburgh on April 17.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 08: Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) and Capitals left wing Alexander Alex Ovechkin (8) shake hands after a ceremonial puck drop before the Pittsburgh Penguins versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on November 8, 2024 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C..

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Crosby: 'Pretty incredible' what Ovechkin's done this season

Alex Ovechkin concluded his chase of Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record Sunday, and we're here...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> concluded his chase of Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record Sunday, and we're here to reminisce on some of the most memorable tallies that helped bring him to this point.</p><p>We're not listing these goals in terms of importance, as No. 895 rocketed to the top of that list the second it hit the back of the net. Instead, we're remembering some of the countless milestone markers and highlight-reel tucks Ovechkin scored during his 20-year quest to become the NHL's goal king.</p><p>Playoff goals were not included simply because they don't count toward his total. The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5acJsqvbTa4&amp;ab_channel=RnBMarv">absurd toe drag against</a> the Rangers, the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_7NwNUmKZA&amp;ab_channel=NHL">dueling hat tricks</a> against Sidney Crosby, and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9S5OTlcJQU&amp;ab_channel=%D0%9A%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%A1%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B2">15 goals</a> scored on his march to the Stanley Cup in 2018 unfortunately had to be omitted.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>First goal - Oct. 5, 2005</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BoGOoO9WTOE?si=xfSN3ta2MaGjTetl" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Where it all began. It's absolutely no surprise that Ovechkin scored twice in his NHL debut and that his first goal was an absolute rocket of a one-timer. The debut came after a year-long lockout and kicked off a rookie season that ended with 52 goals and the Calder Trophy.</p><h3>Barrel roll vs. Coyotes - Jan. 16, 2006</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E82oUXP6Hng?si=BjoQwYLwtrNskwKn" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Before he scored the biggest goal in NHL history, <em>this </em>stood as his most iconic tally. Ovechkin pulled off one of the most acrobatic plays the hockey world's ever seen during his rookie season, corralling a loose puck above his head while sliding away from the net. Adding to the lore of this unforgettable highlight is a baffled Wayne Gretzky, who was the Coyotes' coach at the time.</p><h3>Individual effort vs. Sabres - Dec. 26, 2008</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JFPr_GDtsYU?si=Wx6Jc61UdKa96IQA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Ovechkin made his office the top of the left circle on the power play, but he's never been a one-trick pony when it comes to scoring. This goal wasn't a milestone, but it encapsulates the sheer power of early-era Ovechkin - unstoppable speed through the neutral zone, dancing past a stranded defender, and not giving up on the play until the puck is in the net.</p><h3>Spinning past the Canadiens - Feb. 18, 2009</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_PQwsvFWaXk?si=cbPyBsGo8jiCFaTt" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Young Ovechkin could go through you or go around you, as evidenced by this famous marker against the Canadiens during his third of nine 50-goal seasons. This one stands as one of the prettiest goals of his career 16 years later.</p><h3>Hot stick - March 19, 2009</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_me76RiAlrs?si=OwLEcIV8rbSgyedu" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Ovechkin's always loved a good celebration, and the "hot stick" after his 50th goal of the 2008-09 campaign went viral before going viral was even a thing. It drew the ire of traditionalists who begged a charismatic Ovi to respect his opponents. But Mike McKenna - the helpless netminder who could do nothing but watch Ovechkin's lethal wrister whiz past his glove hand - <a href="https://russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2021/03/29/mike-mckenna-on-alex-ovechkins-hot-stick-celebration-if-id-been-comfortable-in-the-nhl-i-would-have-slashed-his-stick-to-the-next-zip-code/">revealed</a> the Capitals icon apologized and told him he never intended to cause embarrass him.</p><h3> Only one hand required - Feb. 4, 2010</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CnKHhwNj2-k?si=ziPKfCDvKGQfVItv" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>It's easy to forget a goal from February 2010, but this one-handed effort by Ovechkin against the Rangers is one of his top highlights and marked his 500th career point.</p><h3>Through the legs vs. Devils - Dec. 20, 2014</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YzZAOrpzlas?si=o2rB-nNyySvTVk8K" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Defending Ovechkin off the rush, during his prime no less, seems like a really, really bad time. "The Great 8" victimized Jon Merill on this dash before roofing a diving backhand for good measure.</p><h3>No. 500 - Jan. 10, 2016</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HXH5GER3ivs?si=pZT157VIJhqx4sg5" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Five hundred is a magical number in hockey. Scoring that many goals almost guarantees enshrinement in the Hall of Fame and is often done in the twilight of great sniper's careers. Ovechkin required 801 games to score his 500th, the fifth-fastest mark in league history.</p><h3>1,000th point - Jan. 11, 2017</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RCnqzUOx-Iw?si=U6cPbks3qtLmTz27" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Ovechkin's 1,000th point could have come in a variety of ways, but it fittingly came with an electric snipe in the opening minute against his biggest rival. It just wouldn't have felt right if this milestone was a cheap secondary assist.</p><h3>No. 600 - March 12, 2018</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mJD6Iq5ikDo?si=2_I1I8wYiq0b5yoc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>While 500 goals is special, 600 is a different stratosphere. Ovechkin was the 20th player in league history to get there, and the benchmark has only been reached by Sidney Crosby since then. Ovechkin won his seventh Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy the season he scored his 600th, only one year after a 33-goal campaign at 31 years old that had people wondering if he was beginning to slow down.</p><h3>No. 700 - Feb. 22, 2020</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/11eCWB1sJxg?si=q2z7KhBATT3fLYT1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Ovechkin absolutely did not slow down. Two years after bagging No. 600, Ovi reached the next century on his path to his ninth and most recent "Rocket." It's odd to see Ovechkin blast a one-timer from that side of the ice, but the top-shelf snipe and emphatic celebration was nothing new. </p><h3>Hat trick for No. 800 - Dec. 13, 2022</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_OwdslxPJBk?si=8bhy9gBC6XmXNW3b" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Becoming only the third player in NHL history to achieve 800 goals is one thing, but doing so with a hat trick is classic Ovechkin. The goal drew a major celebration, and he went on to score twice five games later to officially pass Gordie Howe for second all-time and kick the "Gr8 Chase" into overdrive.</p>

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Timeline of Alex Ovechkin's most memorable goals

The Carolina Hurricanes secured their spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs with a 5-1 victory ov...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes secured their spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs with a 5-1 victory over the Washington Capitals on Wednesday. </p><p>The Hurricanes have made the postseason seven consecutive years and reached the Eastern Conference Final twice over that span.</p><p>Carolina is likely to finish the year as the second seed in the Metropolitan Division and take on the New Jersey Devils in Round 1. After defeating the Capitals on Wednesday, the Hurricanes are nine points back of Washington with eight games remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two clubs meet again April 10.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 02: Logan Stankoven #22 of the Carolina Hurricanes celebrates with teammates after a goal during the second period against the Washington Capitals at Lenovo Center on April 2, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurricanes clinch 7th consecutive playoff berth

Washington Capitals netminder Logan Thompson left Wednesday's divisional clash against the Caroli...

<p>Washington Capitals netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10003" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10003">Logan Thompson</a> left Wednesday's divisional clash against the Carolina Hurricanes due to an upper-body injury and was unable to return.</p><p>Thompson allowed three goals on 12 shots in the first period before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5525">Charlie Lindgren</a> replaced him. Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery said Thompson will be evaluated when the team returns home, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomGulittiNHL/status/1907618804219134258">NHL.com's Tom Gulitti</a>. </p><p>Washington plays the Chicago Blackhawks in D.C. on Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Thompson entered the game 31-5-6 on the season with a .912 save percentage. He signed a six-year contract extension in January during a strong first campaign with the Capitals, who acquired him from the Vegas Golden Knights over the offseason.</p><p>The Capitals have seven games remaining and own a nine-point lead in the Metropolitan Division.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 02: Logan Thompson #48 of the Washington Capitals looks on after losing his mask during the first period against the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center on April 2, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Capitals' Thompson sustains upper-body injury vs. Hurricanes

Forward Owen Tippett admits the Philadelphia Flyers' players contributed to the dismissal of John...

<p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6488" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6488">Owen Tippett</a> admits the Philadelphia Flyers' players contributed to the dismissal of John Tortorella.</p><p>"You never want to see a coaching change," Tippett told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6250643/2025/04/02/flyers-john-tortorella-matvei-michkov-owen-tippett/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Kevin Kurz</a>. "I think it takes a lot for it to get to that point. And we realized that in this room, we were part of the problem. I think a change and a shift with us is just an effort to play for one another, and make a point that we still believe in each other, and we're going to go to battle with each other."</p><p>The Flyers had one win in their last 12 games when they replaced Tortorella with interim coach Brad Shaw. They're 3-0-0 since the coaching change.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Following Tortorella's final game behind the bench - a 7-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs - he said he isn't interested in coaching a rebuild.</p><p>A reported incident with defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10517" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10517">Cam York</a> in which both parties "crossed the line" also played a factor in his dismissal. </p><p>Tortorella was in his third season as Flyers coach. The club never made the playoffs under his guidance, but Shaw stated the two-time Jack Adams Award winner helped Philadelphia establish a culture. </p><p>"One of the best things Torts did here was that room," Shaw said. "There's been people that left in the last month or so that create voids a little bit, but it's still a great room."</p><p>The Flyers sit 14th in the Eastern Conference despite their recent turnaround. They have six games remaining on the season.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 29: Philadelphia Flyers right wing Owen Tippett (74) watches the replay of his goal during the game between the Buffalo Sabers and the Philadelphia Flyers on March 29th, 2025 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA.

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Tippett: Flyers players were 'part of the problem' before Tortorella's firing

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

<p><em>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.</em></p><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"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vitor Munhoz / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Rangers. </strong>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. <em>- Josh Wegman</em></p><p><strong>Canadiens. </strong>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. <em>- Sean O'Leary</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Blue Jackets. </strong>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. <em>- Kayla Douglas</em></p><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"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Martin / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Stars vs. Avalanche. </strong>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. <strong> </strong><em>- Wegman</em></p><p><strong>Panthers vs. Lightning. </strong>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. <em>- O'Leary</em></p><p><strong>Maple Leafs vs. Senators.<em> </em></strong>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<em> </em>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. - <em>Douglas</em></p><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"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>April 13 vs. Blue Jackets. </strong>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. <em>- Wegman</em></p><p><strong>April 17 @ Penguins.</strong><em> </em>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. - <em>O'Leary</em></p><p><strong>April 10 vs. Hurricanes. </strong>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. <em>- Kyle Cushman</em></p>

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New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy eviscerated forward Anthony Duclair's performance in Tu...

<p>New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy eviscerated forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3235" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3235">Anthony Duclair</a>'s performance in Tuesday's loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. </p><p>"He was god-awful," Roy said postgame, per <a href="https://nyihockeynow.com/new-york-islanders-tampa-bay-lightning-patrick-roy-duclair-pulock-horvat/">Russ Macias of NYI Hockey Now</a>. "He had a bad game, and that's why I didn't play him a lot. And he's lucky to be in the lineup. Sorry if I lose it on him, but that's how I feel."</p><p>The bench boss added: "He's not skating, he's not competing, he's not moving his feet. He's not playing up to what we expect from him. It's an effort thing."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Duclair logged 12:15 in the contest, including only four shifts in the third period while the Islanders trailed. The winger was a minus-1 and credited with two shots, one block, one hit, and a giveaway.</p><p>The Islanders signed Duclair to a four-year, $14-million contract last offseason. He and Roy have a relationship dating back to their time with the QMJHL's Quebec Remparts, and Duclair credited Roy in the summer as a big reason for signing with New York.</p><p>Duclair has notched 11 points this season, with an injury limiting him to 43 games. He entered Tuesday's tilt with one goal over his previous 11 appearances.</p><p>The Islanders have lost six in a row and are five points back of a playoff spot with eight games remaining.</p>

ELMONT, NEW YORK - MARCH 20: Anthony Duclair #11 of the New York Islanders reacts after scoring a goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the game at UBS Arena on March 20, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

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Roy slams 'god-awful' Duclair: 'Lucky to be in the lineup'

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson padded his case for the Calder Trophy on Tuesday agains...

<p>Montreal Canadiens defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12709" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12709">Lane Hutson</a> padded his case for the Calder Trophy on Tuesday against the Florida Panthers, becoming only the 10th defenseman in NHL history to record 60 points in their rookie season. </p><p>Hutson achieved the feat with a point on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3044" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3044">Josh Anderson</a>'s first-period tally. The helper was Hutson's 55th of the season, which matched Chris Chelios' franchise record for assists by a rookie rearguard.</p><p>Hutson later surpassed Chelios by adding two more assists to help Montreal win a dramatic comeback.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Other prominent defensemen to notch 60 points in their first seasons include Hall of Famers Larry Murphy (76), Brian Leetch (71), Phil Housley (66), Ray Bourque (65), and Nicklas Lidstrom (60), who was the most recent player to reach the milestone in 1991-92.</p><p>Hutson has eight games remaining to add to his total.</p><p>Montreal drafted Hutson in the second round in 2022. He joined the Habs for two games last season after a dominant two-year stretch at Boston University.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - APRIL 01: Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) shoots the puck away during the Florida Panthers versus the Montreal Canadiens game on April 01, 2025, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC

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Hutson becomes 10th rookie defenseman with 60-point season

Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet announced Tuesday that forward Filip Chytil is unlikely...

<p>Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet announced Tuesday that forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6526" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6526">Filip Chytil</a> is unlikely to suit up for the rest of the season due to a lingering concussion, according to <a href="https://x.com/BatchHockey/status/1907173219431219469">Sportsnet's Brendan Batchelor</a>.</p><p>Chytil has been out since March 15, when he took a controversial hit from behind by Chicago Blackhawks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3928" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3928">Jason Dickinson</a>. Officials didn't call a penalty on the play.</p><p>The 25-year-old has a history of concussions and was limited to 10 regular-season games last season due to a suspected head injury before rejoining the New York Rangers in the playoffs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Canucks acquired Chytil in January as part of the return for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a>. He registered six points in 15 contests after the trade.</p><p>Vancouver has eight games remaining and is six points back of a playoff spot. The Canucks are also without forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9827">Nils Hoglander</a> due to injury.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - MARCH 15: Filip Chytil #72 of the Vancouver Canucks struggles to get up after a hit during the third period of their NHL game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Rogers Arena on March 15, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Canucks' Chytil unlikely to return this season due to concussion

The NHL and Rogers Communications reached a 12-year Canadian television rights deal worth $7.7 bi...

<p>The NHL and Rogers Communications reached a 12-year Canadian television rights deal worth $7.7 billion ($11 billion CAD), <a href="https://www.sportico.com/leagues/hockey/2025/nhl-rogers-new-media-deal-billion-1234845631/">Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams of Sportico</a> report.</p><p>The agreement would kick in for the 2026-27 season. Rogers is nearing the end of its current 12-year contract signed in 2013. The new deal's total and per-year averages are worth more than twice as much as those of the previous deal, Sportico notes.</p><p>NHL executives have recommended owners approve the deal. An official announcement could come as soon as this week. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>ESPN and TNT own the NHL's television rights in the United States through the 2027-28 campaign. The networks pay the league approximately $600 million per season.</p><p>NHL revenues for the 2024-25 season are projected to exceed $6.6 billion, the league's highest-ever sum. </p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - OCTOBER 09: Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates the puck against Nick Suzuki #14 of the Montreal Canadiens during the third period in the home opener at the Bell Centre on October 9, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 1-0.

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Report: NHL, Rogers agree to 12-year, $7.7B Canadian TV deal

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Sean O'Leary

News Editor

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Alex Chippin

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theScore Staff

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Josh Wegman

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/kayla-douglas/content_cards

Kayla Douglas

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