The Columbus Blue Jackets fired head coach Dean Evason and named Rick Bowness as his replacement,...

<p>The Columbus Blue Jackets fired head coach Dean Evason and named Rick Bowness as his replacement, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Columbus also relieved assistant coach Steve McCarthy of his duties.</p><p>Evason was in his second season behind the bench for the Blue Jackets, who sit last in the Eastern Conference at 19-19-7.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This season has been a frustrating one for all of us, and the bottom line is we are not performing at a level that meets our expectations," general manager Don Waddell said in a statement. "We all share in that responsibility, me included, and while this was not a decision that was made lightly, it is one that needed to be made at this time."</p><p>The Blue Jackets missed the playoffs by two points in 2024-25 and are trending toward missing the postseason for a sixth consecutive year following an underwhelming first half.</p><p>Bowness most recently coached the Winnipeg Jets between 2022 and 2024, announcing his retirement after the club was eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The 70-year-old has 2,726 games of experience as an NHL head coach or assistant, the most in league history.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - JANUARY 11: Head Coach Dean Evason of the Columbus Blue Jackets reacts following a play in the second period of a game against the Utah Mammoth at Delta Center on January 11, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Blue Jackets fire Evason, hire Bowness as head coach

Brooks Koepka will return to the PGA TOUR for the 2026 season, following a series of stipulations...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> will return to the PGA TOUR for the 2026 season, following a series of stipulations outlined in the circuit's new Returning Member Program, CEO Brian Rolapp <a href="https://x.com/PGATOUR/status/2010785182677418489/photo/2">announced</a> Monday.</p><p>As part of his reinstatement, Koepka must forfeit his stake in the TOUR's Player Equity Program for five years and make a $5-million charitable donation.</p><p>"Forfeiting five years of potential equity in our Player Equity Program represents one of the largest financial repercussions in professional sports history - our estimations are that Brooks could miss out on approximately $50 million to $85 million in potential earnings depending on his competitive performance and the growth of the TOUR," Rolapp said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The TOUR also announced the return protocol is open until Feb. 2, but only for golfers who have won The Players or a major championship between 2022-25. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/891" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/891">Cameron Smith</a>, all under contract with LIV Golf, meet those terms.</p><p>"This is a one-time, defined window and is not a precedent for future situations," Rolapp added. "Once the door closes, there is no promise that this path will be available again."</p><p>Koepka last competed on the PGA TOUR in March 2022 before joining LIV on a contract reportedly exceeding $100 million. While with LIV, he won the 2023 PGA Championship and collected five additional victories.</p><p>The 35-year-old revealed on Dec. 23 that he was leaving LIV, saying he wanted to be closer to family. Reports of Koepka's application for reinstatement surfaced last week.</p><p>"I believe in where the PGA TOUR is headed with new leadership, new investors, and an equity program that gives players a meaningful ownership stake," Koepka <a href="https://x.com/BKoepka/status/2010785270602281361?s=20">said</a> in a statement. "I also understand there are financial penalties associated with this decision, and I accept those." </p><p>Koepka has already committed to the Farmers Insurance Open (Jan. 29 - Feb. 1) and Waste Management Open (Feb. 5-8).</p>

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WEST VIRGINIA - AUGUST 18: Brooks Koepka of the United States walks at the 10th hole during day three of LIV Golf: Greenbrier at The Old White Course on August 18, 2024 in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

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Koepka reinstated as TOUR opens Returning Member Program

The Ottawa Senators signed veteran goaltender James Reimer to a one-year, $850,000 contract, the ...

<p>The Ottawa Senators signed veteran goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1195" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1195">James Reimer</a> to a one-year, $850,000 contract, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Reimer made one start for Ottawa's AHL affiliate before signing his deal, allowing six goals on 28 shots. The 37-year-old also represented Canada at the Spengler Cup in December and played preseason games with the Toronto Maple Leafs on a professional tryout deal.</p><p>The Senators are seeking answers in goal amid a four-game losing streak that's sunk them to 15th in the Eastern Conference. Ottawa ranks last in the NHL with an .868 save percentage and has used four netminders already this campaign. Last year's No. 1, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a>, is currently away from the team for personal reasons and made saves at an .881 clip in 28 appearances this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reimer's put together a 15-year NHL career but has primarily served as a backup in recent seasons. Since 2019, he's suited up for the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, San Jose Sharks, Detroit Red Wings, Anaheim Ducks, and Buffalo Sabres.</p><p>The Senators return to action Tuesday against the Vancouver Canucks. </p>

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND - DECEMBER 26: James Reimer of Team Canada looks on during the Spengler Cup Davos match between Team Canada and U.S Collegiate Selects at Zondacrypto-Arena on December 26, 2025 in Davos, Switzerland.

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Senators sign Reimer to 1-year, $850K deal

New York Rangers captain J.T. Miller was sickened by his club's 10-2 loss to the Boston Bruins on...

<p>New York Rangers captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a> was sickened by his club's 10-2 loss to the Boston Bruins on Saturday.</p><p>"That's as bad as it gets," Miller said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/2010098467960697045?s=20">The Athletic's Vince Z. Mercogliano</a>. "I don't know, man. The only thing that really matters now is this should sting, like, this should suck. This should make you want to puke and then respond tomorrow and the next day. The only thing that matters is a response."</p><p>Miller scored with the game out of reach and finished the contest minus-3 in nearly 17 minutes of ice time. He took ownership of his role in the humiliating defeat. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"That's a game where you're looking for leadership, and I've got to be better," he <a href="https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/2010101052100559356">said</a>. "It's just unacceptable. Your leaders shouldn't let games - and I'm talking about myself - get like that. The crowd should never be chanting, 'We want 10!'"</p><p>The Rangers took the lead 1:24 into the contest before giving up six unanswered goals. The Bruins scored nine of their tallies at even strength and had an array of standout performers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4122" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4122">David Pastrnak</a> notched six assists, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9290" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9290">Marat Khusnutdinov</a> had four goals, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4563" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4563">Pavel Zacha</a> recorded a hat trick.</p><p>New York's collected only three wins in its past 10 games and is now five points back of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2089" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2089">Vincent Trocheck</a> said the Rangers need a "complete reset" to move forward, according to <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/2010098437614932479?s=20">Mollie Walker of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>"We should be embarrassed right now," Trocheck <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/2010097842388627580?s=20">said</a>, "and I think we are."</p><p>The Rangers return to action Monday against the Seattle Kraken. </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 06: J.T. Miller #8 of the New York Rangers speaks with Vincent Trocheck #16 during the game against the Colorado Avalanche at Madison Square Garden on December 06, 2025 in New York City.

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Miller: 10-2 loss to Bruins should make Rangers 'want to puke' 

Brooks Koepka applied for reinstatement to the PGA TOUR on Friday, sources told ESPN's Mark Schla...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> applied for reinstatement to the PGA TOUR on Friday, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/47563165/sources-brooks-koepka-reapplies-pga-tour-membership">ESPN's Mark Schlabach</a>. </p><p>The five-time major champion announced his departure from LIV Golf on Dec. 23, citing family needs and prioritizing being closer to home.</p><p>He last competed on TOUR in March 2022 before defecting to the Saudi-backed circuit. Koepka won the 2023 PGA Championship and collected five additional victories as a LIV player. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's unclear what his reinstatement process may entail. Sources told Schlabach that the decision will include "thoughtful input from the board, including player directors."</p><p>Koepka's currently eligible to play in all four majors this season.</p>

CARNOUSTIE, SCOTLAND - OCTOBER 02: Brooks Koepka of the United States plays his second shot on the second hole on day one of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship 2025 at Carnoustie Golf Links on October 02, 2025 in Carnoustie, Scotland.

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Report: Koepka applies for PGA TOUR reinstatement

The Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche at the 2027 Winter Classic, the teams announced...

<p>The Utah Mammoth will host the Colorado Avalanche<strong> </strong>at the 2027 Winter Classic,<strong> </strong>the teams announced Wednesday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">At SEG our goal is to bring great things and build Utah. This is one of those things. The 18th Winter Classic coming to Utah in our 3rd year in the NHL. Couldn’t be more excited! Big things ahead! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TusksUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TusksUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/wMJLaIzDEz">pic.twitter.com/wMJLaIzDEz</a></p>— Ryan Smith (@RyanQualtrics) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanQualtrics/status/2009036240721727934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The game will take place at Rice-Eccles Stadium, home of the University of Utah's football team. The venue's capacity is approximately 51,000.</p><p>Utah is the only remaining active NHL franchise that's never played an outdoor game after the Florida Panthers hosted the Winter Classic on Jan. 2. The 2026-27 campaign will be the Mammoth's third in the league after replacing the Arizona Coyotes, who were never chosen for an outdoor event either.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The NHL announced in November that the Dallas Stars will host a Stadium Series game in February 2027 at AT&amp;T Stadium. </p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - SEPTEMBER 7 : The Wasatch Mountains are seen in the background of Rice-Eccles Stadium during the game between the Utah Utes and the Northern Illinois Huskies on September 7, in Salt Lake City Utah

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Mammoth hosting Avalanche in 2027 Winter Classic at Rice-Eccles Stadium

The New York Rangers have been pushing hard to acquire Vancouver Canucks winger Kiefer Sherwood, ...

<p>The New York Rangers have been pushing hard to acquire Vancouver Canucks winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7628" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7628">Kiefer Sherwood</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6950708/2026/01/07/ny-rangers-kiefer-sherwood-trade-rumors/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Vincent Z. Mercogliano</a>. </p><p>Sherwood, a pending unrestricted free agent, has been involved in trade rumors for most of the season and has drawn plenty of interest. There's a large gap between him and the Canucks in contract negotiations, <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/article/canucks-focused-on-re-signing-sherwood-as-trade-deadline-sits-two-months-away/">TSN's Chris Johnston </a>reports.</p><p>The Canucks are hopeful of netting at least a first-round pick for Sherwood if they trade him, Mercogliano reports. New York owns two first-round selections in the 2026 draft.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rangers are pursuing a top-nine forward to help their 30th-ranked offense. Sherwood's notched 17 goals and five assists in 42 games while recording a whopping 202 hits. He currently carries a $1.5-million cap hit. </p><p>New York is three points back of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference and recently lost stars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8558" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8558">Igor Shesterkin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8555" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8555">Adam Fox</a> to injury.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - DECEMBER 30: Kiefer Sherwood #44 of the Vancouver Canucks looks on during the third period of their NHL game against the Philadelphia Flyers at Rogers Arena on December 30, 2025 in Vancouver, Canada.

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Report: Rangers pursuing Canucks' Sherwood

Several New Jersey Devils supported Luke Hughes after the defenseman was booed on home ice Sunday...

<p>Several New Jersey Devils supported <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a> after the defenseman was booed on home ice Sunday for a pair of costly errors in a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. </p><p>Hughes scored on his own net in the opening minute, then lost the puck to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> in front of the crease in the second period. The second mistake stood as the winning goal for Carolina. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/le83eX0gVqw?si=yHU1gdAnIh1i22dj" 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>Hughes took ownership of his gaffes after the loss. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It is what it is. It's part of sports," Hughes said, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/devils/news/game-story-2025020660">team reporter Sam Kasan</a>. "Obviously, I made a couple mistakes today, and I gotta be better, and it is what it is."</p><p>Head coach Sheldon Keefe didn't appreciate the home crowd turning on the 22-year-old. </p><p>"It's disappointing that that was the reaction that we had in the building for the youngest player on the ice," he said. "But he'll give them lots of reasons to cheer in the future."</p><p>Goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1063" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1063">Jake Allen</a>, who started the contest, also thought the fans' reaction was unfair.</p><p>"I've made so many mistakes to count," Allen said. "I've had fans boo me. I've had this and that, which, listen, I don't think he deserves. He's a kid that made two mistakes in a hockey game. Whoever doesn't make mistakes, I'd love to meet you, you know? But, it's a tough situation for him. In a game like that, probably something he's never felt before."</p><p>Hughes has struggled defensively this season but has produced 21 points in 42 games while averaging over 23 minutes per contest. He's in his third full NHL season after being drafted fourth overall in 2021, and he's playing the first campaign of a seven-year, $63-million contract signed in October after negotiations lingered through training camp.</p>

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 04: Nikolaj Ehlers #27 of the Carolina Hurricanes celebrates an own goal during the first period by the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on January 4, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Devils support Luke Hughes after boos for 2 costly gaffes

Gavin McKenna is feeling the weight of Canada's heartbreaking semifinal defeat to Czechia on Sund...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/16986" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/16986">Gavin McKenna</a> is feeling the weight of Canada's heartbreaking semifinal defeat to Czechia on Sunday at the world juniors. </p><p>"It's the same feeling," McKenna said after the loss, per <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/world-juniors/article/czechia-tops-canada-to-advance-to-gold-medal-game-at-world-junior-championship/">The Canadian Press</a>. "Letting your country down sucks."</p><p>McKenna was one of six returnees from last year's roster, which lost to Czechia in the quarters. The 18-year-old, who's been projected as the top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft for several years, has 10 points in six games at this year's tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's hopeful Canada can rebound in time to defeat Finland in the bronze-medal game Monday.</p><p>"Very tough, but doing it for Canada," McKenna said. "We've got to regroup to be ready."</p><p>Canada has been eliminated by the Czechs three years in a row, with each defeat coming via a dramatic late goal. Sunday's contest was decided by Tomas Poletin's go-ahead tally with 1:14 remaining in regulation. Despite the tight scoreline, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/16334" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/16334">Michael Misa</a> acknowledged Canada was outplayed.</p><p>"They just played grittier," Misa said. "The whole game, they outcompeted us." </p><p>If Canada fails to defeat Finland on Monday, it will mark the country's first three-year medal drought at the event since 1979-81.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 29: Gavin McKenna #9 of Canada reacts after winning best player for Canada during the Group B, Game 14 match against Denmark at the IIHF World Junior Championship at Mariucci Arena on December 29, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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McKenna distraught after semis loss: 'Letting your country down sucks' 

The Ottawa Senators were furious after Winnipeg Jets defenseman Logan Stanley sucker punched capt...

<p>The Ottawa Senators were furious after Winnipeg Jets defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5603" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5603">Logan Stanley</a> sucker punched captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> during a scrum in Saturday night's contest. </p><p>The two players got entangled in front of the Senators' bench before Stanley landed a punch on Tkachuk while the refs tried to separate them.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ntoNXO28q0E?si=xAvApdJWWp_r4Fss" 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>Tkachuk, still hampered by a thumb injury sustained earlier this season, is unable to fight and must wear a protective brace. As a result of the altercation, officials assessed Stanley with two roughing minors and handed Tkachuk a 10-minute misconduct for his reaction.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I will probably choose my words wisely," head coach Travis Green said, according to <a href="https://ottawacitizen.com/ottawa-senators/ottawa-senators-victory-winnipeg-jets">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><p>"If the refs had to do it again and call it again, they'd probably make a different call. You never like to see a guy get suckered in the face. It's unfortunate. We're lucky he came back. He's an All-Star player. I'm sure their team wouldn't be happy if (Kyle) Connor got suckered in the face and there was just a two-minute minor for roughing."</p><p>Forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/911">Claude Giroux</a> was at a loss for words on the incident. </p><p>"You don't like to see that stuff happening," he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/7_9vymfI8T8">said</a>. "I don't know if Stanley thought he was in a fight. I seriously don't know what to say."</p><p>Tkachuk returned to the contest after his misconduct, helping the Senators secure a 4-2 victory to hand the Jets their ninth consecutive loss.</p><p>The two clubs don't meet again this season. </p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - JANUARY 3: Brady Tkachuk #7 of the Ottawa Senators between whistles during the second period against the Winnipeg Jets on January 3, 2026 at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Senators stunned after Jets' Stanley sucker punches Tkachuk

Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson limped off the ice during the first period of Saturday's t...

<p>Washington Capitals forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2592">Tom Wilson</a> limped off the ice during the first period of Saturday's tilt against the Chicago Blackhawks following a collision with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2548" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2548">Connor Murphy</a>. </p><p>Wilson grabbed at his right leg after falling to the ice. Trainers assisted him down the tunnel and he missed the remainder of the game, which Chicago won 3-2 in a shootout. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ALLCAPS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ALLCAPS</a> Tom Wilson gets hurt and goes down the tunnel. Right leg <a href="https://t.co/f2PDk2GUdD">pic.twitter.com/f2PDk2GUdD</a></p>— Capitals Replays 🍁 (@capsreplays) <a href="https://twitter.com/capsreplays/status/2007613415842570551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery said he doesn't believe Wilson's injury is "too bad" but he'll undergo further evaluation Sunday, per <a href="https://x.com/sammisilber/status/2007650272970178607?s=20">Sammi Silber of The Hockey News</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wilson entered the contest leading the Capitals with 22 goals and 42 points in 40 games. He was named to Canada's Olympic team Wednesday.</p>

WASHINGTON, D.C. - DECEMBER 20: Tom Wilson #43 of the Washington Capitals warms up before the game against the Detroit Red Wings on December 20, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

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Capitals' Wilson limps off ice vs. Blackhawks with apparent leg injury

Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson expressed his disappointment Friday following his controvers...

<p>Dallas Stars forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6608" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6608">Jason Robertson</a> expressed his disappointment Friday following his controversial omission from the United States Olympic men's hockey roster.</p><p>"Obviously, it hurts your ego, but I'm not going to change the way I play, and I'm happy to keep doing it here," Robertson said, per <a href="https://archive.is/20260103210936/https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/stars/2026/01/03/dallas-stars-jason-robertson-addresses-team-usa-snub-2026-winter-olympics/#selection-1871.1-1871.111">Lia Assimakopoulos of The Dallas Morning News</a>. "I think I just strive to be the best whenever I can be. It just so happened this year was an Olympic year. That's not gonna stop me from doing that the rest of the season."</p><p>The U.S. Olympic team passed over Robertson despite the 26-year-old ranking sixth in the NHL with 24 goals and leading American-born players with 48 points this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Robertson was also left off last February's 4 Nations Face-Off squad after an underwhelming start to the 2024-25 campaign. He said Friday that he believed his performance this year warranted a spot on the roster for Milan Cortina.</p><p>"Yeah, I thought that this year was different than last year," Robertson said. "Obviously, last year, I didn't think I was good enough. Now, I think I did. It's their choice, their decision. That's it."</p><p>Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin assembled the USA's Olympic roster. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5592" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5592">Clayton Keller</a> of the Utah Mammoth and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5611" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5611">Tage Thompson</a> of the Buffalo Sabres were the only forwards to make the team who weren't part of the 4 Nations group that lost in the final to Canada.</p><p>The U.S. can still call on Robertson as an injury replacement.</p>

DALLAS, TX - DECEMBER 31: Jason Robertson #21 of the Dallas Stars skates against the Buffalo Sabers at the American Airlines Center on December 31, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Robertson: Team USA snub 'hurts your ego' 

The United States' gold-medal streak at the World Junior Championship is over after Finland knock...

<p>The United States' gold-medal streak at the World Junior Championship is over after Finland knocked off the tournament host with a 4-3 victory in Friday's quarterfinal matchup.</p><p>Arttu Valila scored the overtime winner after a frenetic ending to the third period in which Finland took the lead with two goals in 55 seconds, only to set the stage for Ryker Lee's equalizer with 1:33 left in regulation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ARTTU VALILA IS THE OVERTIME HERO! FINLAND CRUSHES THE UNITED STATES' HOPES OF A THREE-PEAT AT THE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDJUNIORS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDJUNIORS</a>! 🤯🤯🤯 <a href="https://t.co/RGOAX0dTw5">pic.twitter.com/RGOAX0dTw5</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2007265709043175787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The United States entered the event as back-to-back champions and defeated Finland in last year's gold-medal game. James Hagens, Will Zellers, and Brodie Ziemer were named the top American players of the tournament following the loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Finland last won a gold medal in 2019. It's captured one bronze and two silver medals since.</p>

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 02: Nick Kempf #31 of the United States makes a save against Julius Miettinen #27 of Finland in the second period of a quarterfinal game during the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship at Grand Casino Arena on January 02, 2026 in St Paul, Minnesota.

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Finland ousts USA at WJHC with OT win in quarterfinal

Canada used a five-goal first period to cruise to a 7-1 victory over Slovakia in Friday's quarter...

<p>Canada used a five-goal first period to cruise to a 7-1 victory over Slovakia in Friday's quarterfinal matchup at the 2026 World Junior Championship.</p><p>With the emphatic win, Canada advances to a semifinal showdown with Czechia on Sunday. Czechia eliminated Canada in each of the past two years, but Canada earned a 7-5 victory when the two countries clashed on Boxing Day.</p><p>Sweden and Finland play in the other semifinal after defeating Latvia and the United States, respectively, earlier Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Semifinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YqNoa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YqNoa/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="234" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Canada's five-goal outburst came in under six minutes to close out the opening frame. Cole Reschny scored the icebreaker, followed by tallies from Tij Iginla, Michael Misa, Sam O'Reilly, and Brady Martin.</p><p>Six Canadian skaters produced multi-point games, while goaltender Jack Ivankovic stopped 12 of 13 shots faced. </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 2: Brady Martin #28 of Canada celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against Slovakia during the first period of a 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship quarterfinal game at Mariucci Arena on January 2, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Canada crushes Slovakia to set up semifinal clash with Czechia

Canada unveiled its highly anticipated men's hockey roster for the 2026 Olympics on Wednesday.   ...

<p>Canada unveiled its highly anticipated men's hockey roster for the 2026 Olympics on Wednesday. </p><p>The group heading to Milan Cortina is nearly identical to the squad that won the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, with a handful of new additions. Canada can still make changes if injuries occur.</p><p>👉 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3440042" href="https://thescore.com/news/3440042"><strong>Roster analysis, snubs, and more</strong></a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Forwards</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-X6otF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/X6otF/9/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Suzuki, Celebrini, Horvat, and Wilson weren't on the 4 Nations roster. Celebrini, 19, played his way onto the team with 60 points in his sophomore season, which trails only McDavid and MacKinnon in the NHL's scoring race.</p><p>Blackhawks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> is perhaps the most notable omission from Canada's roster. He racked up 44 points in 31 games before an upper-body injury sidelined him in mid-December. However, Canada general manager Doug Armstrong said the issue wasn't a deciding factor in Bedard missing the cut.</p><p>The 4 Nations forwards who aren't returning to the Canadian team are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4574" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4574">Travis Konecny</a>. Notably, Bennett has won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Florida Panthers and won the Conn Smythe as playoff MVP this past spring.</p><h3>Defensemen</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ggNCw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ggNCw/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="212" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Canada's defensive corps is the same unit that won the 4 Nations. Makar was one of the first six skaters named to the team over the summer and is in the driver's seat to win the Norris Trophy for the third time in seven seasons.</p><p>Doughty is the only Canadian defenseman with Olympic experience. He captured gold medals in 2010 and 2014 and has also won at the international level at the world juniors, World Cup, and 4 Nations.</p><p>New York Islanders rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16210" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16210">Matthew Schaefer</a> was speculated to be in the mix to make the team as an 18-year-old but missed out amid his dominant debut campaign.</p><p>"He's a fantastic talent, he brings you out of your seat every night," Armstrong said of Schaefer. "He's got maturity beyond his years on and off the ice." </p><h3>Goaltenders</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XsCMh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XsCMh/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="116" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Binnington is the lone returnee after backstopping Canada to its 4 Nations title. He has a longstanding relationship with Armstrong and a Stanley Cup on his resume but has the worst stats of Canada's goaltending trio this season.</p><p>The St. Louis Blues netminder has an .870 save percentage and seven wins in 23 appearances this season. Thompson, a surprising snub from the 4 Nations roster, owns a .915 clip in 2025-26 after finishing fourth in Vezina Trophy voting last year.</p><p>Kuemper is coming off an injury but has posted a .917 save percentage when healthy. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4728" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4728">Samuel Montembeault</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4649" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4649">Adin Hill</a> were on the 4 Nations roster but didn't get any playing time. </p><p>👉 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3440042" href="https://thescore.com/news/3440042"><strong>Roster analysis, snubs, and more</strong></a></p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 17: Nathan MacKinnon #29 and Sidney Crosby #87 of Team Canada chat prior to a second period faceoff against Team Finland in the 4 Nations Face-Off game at TD Garden on February 17, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Canada unveils Olympic roster for Milan Cortina

Nashville Predators veteran Steven Stamkos registered his 600th career goal Wednesday against the...

<p>Nashville Predators veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> registered his 600th career goal Wednesday against the Vegas Golden Knights.</p><p>Stamkos' milestone marker came on a vintage one-timer from the left circle on the power play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="nl" dir="ltr">STEVEN STAMKOS IS A 600-GOAL MAN 🔨 <a href="https://t.co/S6AlF0pvql">pic.twitter.com/S6AlF0pvql</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2006466407127548000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He's the 22nd player in NHL history to achieve the feat and is likely to pass Jarri Kurri (601), Dino Ciccarelli (608), and Bobby Hull (610) on the all-time goals list this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stamkos' tally Wednesday marked his 18th of the campaign. Red-hot lately, he's on track to eclipse his disappointing 27-goal output from last season, his first with the Predators.</p><p>The 35-year-old previously spent 16 years with the Tampa Bay Lightning, scoring 555 goals, winning two Stanley Cups, and earning a pair of "Rocket" Richard trophies with the Bolts.</p>

SAINT PAUL, MN - DECEMBER 23: Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos (91) skates on the ice during the first period of the NHL game between the Nashville Predators and Minnesota Wild on December 23rd, 2025, at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, MN.

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Stamkos becomes 22nd NHLer to score 600 goals

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev is set to miss "significant time" due to a groin injur...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1685" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1685">Chris Tanev</a> is set to miss "significant time" due to a groin injury, head coach Craig Berube announced Wednesday.</p><p>"They're looking at things going forward here, so I'm not gonna speculate on what they’re gonna exactly do. But he's gonna be out a while," Berube said, per <a href="https://x.com/jonassiegel/status/2006411637650063511">The Athletic's Jonas Siegel</a>.</p><p>Tanev recently returned from a 23-game absence for an upper-body injury but made only three appearances before being sidelined again. The 36-year-old has suited up 11 times this season. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto is also currently without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4180" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10054" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10054">Dakota Joshua</a> due to injuries. Their respective return dates are unclear. </p><p>The Maple Leafs resume action Thursday against the Winnipeg Jets. </p>

DETROIT, MI - DECEMBER 28: Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Chris Tanev (8) skates during the second period of a regular season NHL hockey game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings on December 28, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan.

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Tanev to miss 'significant time' with groin injury

New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe doesn't want Nico Hischier to become an enforcer, thou...

<p>New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe doesn't want <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6426" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6426">Nico Hischier</a> to become an enforcer, though he didn't mind his captain dropping the gloves with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> on Tuesday in an effort to provide his team a spark.</p><p>Hischier and Knies went toe-to-toe with the Devils trailing the Toronto Maple Leafs 2-0 in the third period. Toronto went on to win 4-0, and Keefe addressed his club's need for more emotion following the loss. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matthew Knies and Nico Hischier drop the gloves off the draw 👊 <a href="https://t.co/RX2MgLPaRa">pic.twitter.com/RX2MgLPaRa</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2006187501841518997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I mean, do I want our captain and one of our best players fighting when we're down 2-0 in the third period? Absolutely not," Keefe said, per <a href="https://x.com/JamesNicholsNHL/status/2006201342872739898?s=20">James Nichols of NJ Hockey Now</a>. "But do we need some guys to step up to show some emotion and some balls and play with some urgency and competitiveness and step out of character? Yeah, we need more of that.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"So to that end, I like it. I like that Nico did it and hopefully it rubs off on the rest of the group in a positive way," Keefe added. "I didn't think that it did in that moment, but you want to talk about gut checks, there's one. Your captain's out there taking on a big guy stepping out of character."</p><p>Hischier only had one previous scrap in his NHL career, according to <a href="https://www.hockeyfights.com/players/23737">Hockeyfights.com</a>. The 2017 first overall pick took on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2567" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2567">Mikael Granlund</a> during the 2021-22 campaign. </p><p>Keefe continued, "We'll see what we have with our group, but we need more guys that are going to show a little bit more if you're not going to score. If you're not going to score, give us a little bit more competitively and physically and show that you're working to find your way. There's not enough of that. We're just kind of going about our business."</p><p>Hischier ranks second on the Devils this season with 30 points in 39 games.</p><p>The Devils have lost three in a row and four of 10. New Jersey is three points back of a wild-card seed. The crowded Eastern Conference standings currently has eight teams within five points of the last playoff spot.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 30: Nico Hischier #13 of the New Jersey Devils skates with the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period at the Scotiabank Arena on December 30, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Devils' Keefe hails Hischier's surprise fight: 'We need more of that'

United States defenseman Cole Hutson was stretchered off the ice during the second period of Satu...

<p>United States defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15076" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15076">Cole Hutson</a> was stretchered off the ice during the second period of Saturday's contest against Switzerland after taking a puck to the neck area.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cole Hutson had to be stretchered off the ice after taking a puck to the head vs. Switzerland. 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldJuniors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldJuniors</a> <a href="https://t.co/JDEx3oECTB">pic.twitter.com/JDEx3oECTB</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2005073933259743639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Hutson was down for several minutes and moving his extremities before medics helped him off the ice.</p><p>Hutson was later discharged from the hospital and rejoined his teammates at the rink, Team USA head coach Bob Motzko told <a href="https://x.com/jonmorosi/status/2005097496809501115?s=20">NHL Network's Jon Morosi</a>. His status for the remainder of the tournament will be evaluated Sunday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Washington Capitals prospect is a returnee from last year's gold medal-winning team. He was named a tournament All-Star after leading the event with 11 points.</p><p>Hutson collected two assists in the U.S.' Boxing Day win over Germany. He posted 20 points in 18 games with Boston University before the tournament began.</p><p>He's the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12709" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12709">Lane Hutson</a>, who won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year in 2025. </p><p>The U.S. ultimately won the contest 2-1. The hosts return to action Monday against Slovakia.</p>

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 26: Cole Hutson #44 of the United States skates with the puck against Germany in the third period of a group stage game at Grand Casino Arena on December 26, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. The United States defeated Germany 6-3.

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Team USA's Hutson stretchered off after taking puck to neck

Marc Bergevin is leaving his senior advisor role with the Los Angeles Kings to join the Buffalo S...

<p>Marc Bergevin is leaving his senior advisor role with the Los Angeles Kings to join the Buffalo Sabres as associate general manager, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MatthewFairburn/status/2002571321620754681?s=20">The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn</a>. </p><p>Buffalo has shaken up its front office with a handful of moves this past week. The Sabres fired general manager Kevyn Adams on Monday and replaced him with Jarmo Kekalainen, then the latter fired associate GM Jason Karmanos on Saturday.</p><p>Bergevin has held an executive role with the Kings since 2022. He was the Montreal Canadiens GM from 2012-2021 before moving to Hollywood, and also has front-office experience with the Chicago Blackhawks.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Sabres won their fifth consecutive game Saturday, but have missed the playoffs for an NHL-record 14 consecutive seasons.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - JULY 23: General manager Marc Bergevin of the Montreal Canadiens attends the first round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft at Bell Center on July 23, 2021 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

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Report: Bergevin leaving advisor role with Kings to be Sabres' AGM

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