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NHL News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Saturday, January 31

Anze Kopitar Activated Off IR, Set to Return as First-Line Center

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Los Angeles Kings veteran Anze Kopitar (lower body) has been activated off injured reserve Saturday, signaling his return to action. The injury sidelined Kopitar for 11 games, but he is expected to reclaim his role as the first-line center. Prior to his absence, the 38-year-old, who is in what is expected to be his final NHL season, had accumulated six goals and 15 assists in 37 games. Alex Turcotte was placed on IR in a corresponding move.

Dan Vladar Confirmed Starter Saturday vs. Kings

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Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar is confirmed to start between the home pipes on Saturday against the Los Angeles Kings. Vladar has been stellar for the Flyers in the 2025-26 season, posting a 16-8-4 record with a 2.49 GAA and a .904 save percentage across 30 appearances. The Kings' offense ranks 29th in the NHL, generating 2.58 goals per game.

Friday, January 30

Charlie Coyle Explodes with Second Career Hat Trick in Blue Jackets' 4-2 Win

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Columbus Blue Jackets center Charlie Coyle delivered his second career hat trick, scoring three goals (including a power-play goal and an empty-netter) and adding an assist in Friday's 4-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. Coyle has been on a hot streak, accumulating five goals and nine points over his last three outings. He now has 15 goals and 39 points in 53 appearances this season, putting him on pace to surpass the 50-point mark for the third time in his career. Insiders report significant interest in the 33-year-old veteran as a potential trade target for teams seeking a second-line center.

Frank Nazar Scores Crucial Goal for Blackhawks in 4-2 Loss to Blue Jackets

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Chicago Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar scored a much-needed goal in Friday's 4-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Connor Bedard set him up for a great chance on a 3-on-2 break, and Nazar beat Elvis Merzlikins from 25 feet. This goal helped the Blackhawks narrow the deficit to 3-2 in the second period, demonstrating his offensive contribution despite the team's ultimate defeat.

Connor Bedard Scores, Assists but Blackhawks Fall 4-2 to Blue Jackets

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Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard scored a goal and dished an assist in Friday's 4-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Bedard tied the game at 1-1 in the final seconds of the first period and later set up Frank Nazar for Chicago's second goal. Despite his efforts, the Blackhawks were unable to secure a win. Bedard has recorded assists in five of his last six games against teams ranking in the bottom-10 for shots or goals allowed, showcasing his playmaking ability even in losses.

Mathieu Olivier Contributes Goal and Assist in Blue Jackets' 4-2 Victory

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Columbus Blue Jackets forward Mathieu Olivier scored a goal and added an assist in Friday's 4-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. His goal, set up by Charlie Coyle, gave the Blue Jackets a 3-1 lead early in the second period and proved to be the eventual game-winner. Olivier's offensive contribution helped secure Columbus's fourth straight victory and eighth win in their last nine games.

Blackhawks Bench Artyom Levshunov, Implement Development Plan for Rookie

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Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Artyom Levshunov was a healthy scratch against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday night, with Sam Rinzel called up in his place. Levshunov has struggled recently, recording 0 points and a minus-11 rating over his last nine games, including a minus-5 in Thursday's 6-2 loss to Pittsburgh. Head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed a development program for Levshunov focusing on shooting, puck play, and defensive game, aiming for a "reset some foundational things" rather than sending him to the AHL. He will have limited playing time, if any, leading up to the Olympic break.

Canucks Rookie Tom Willander Shows Promise in First NHL Season

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Vancouver Canucks rookie defenseman Tom Willander, drafted 11th overall in 2023, is making a strong impression in his first NHL season. After five games in the AHL, he's stuck with the Canucks and is currently sixth in rookie defenseman scoring with three goals and 12 assists. The soon-to-be 21-year-old admits he didn't expect to stay in the lineup long-term but has found comfort and gained experience. He credits veteran defensemen like Tyler Myers, Marcus Pettersson, and Filip Hronek for their guidance, and aims to continue improving all aspects of his game.

Senators Consider Calling Up Top Prospect Carter Yakemchuk to NHL Roster

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The Ottawa Senators are contemplating calling up top prospect Carter Yakemchuk, the 7th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, to the NHL roster. Despite a -24 rating and 19 points in 31 AHL games this season, some argue his defensive game might benefit more from NHL development, especially given Belleville's struggles defensively. Yakemchuk, an offensive defenseman, excels on the power play, ranking 8th in AHL power play assists among rookies despite missing 13 games due to injury. GM Steve Staios previously indicated Yakemchuk would likely have been called up already if not for his injury.

Marshall Rifai Set for Season Debut with Maple Leafs Against Canucks

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Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Marshall Rifai is slated to make his season debut on Saturday night against the Vancouver Canucks, nearly two years after his last NHL game. The 27-year-old, who underwent wrist surgery in September, returned to the AHL's Marlies on December 27 and has since played 12 games. Rifai, an undrafted strong skater, puck-mover, and physical player, will line up alongside Troy Stecher on the third defense pairing. Head coach Craig Berube praised Rifai's professionalism and competitiveness, highlighting his consistent preparation and ability to play in most defensive situations.

Adam Fantilli Expected to Drive Shots, Eyeing Goal Against Blackhawks

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Columbus Blue Jackets forward Adam Fantilli is projected to be a high-volume shooter against the Chicago Blackhawks, with a strong chance to score. He has registered at least three shots in seven of his past eight games, averaging 3.4 shots on goal in seven games under coach Rick Bowness. Fantilli has gone over his shot total in six of those games. Chicago ranks 26th in shots allowed per game and 29th over the last 10 games, making it a favorable matchup for Fantilli, who is second on the Blue Jackets in shots (56) and expected goals (7.27) over his last 19 appearances.

Alex Tuch Blazes with Fourth Career Hat Trick, Extends Goal Streak to Three

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Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch recorded his fourth career hat trick, including a power-play goal, in a 4-1 victory over the Kings on Thursday, extending his goal streak to three games. The 29-year-old has been red-hot in January, accumulating 10 goals and 14 points through 14 contests, marking his fourth consecutive 20-goal season. Tuch's offensive surge has been a key factor in the Sabres' recent success, as the team has won five straight games. Tuch expressed the team's confidence, stating, "We're not just going to go for the playoffs. We're going to go for the Cup."

Pius Suter Game-Time Decision for Blues Against Blue Jackets

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St. Louis Blues forward Pius Suter is listed as a game-time decision for Saturday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. His status, along with Jake Neighbours and Jimmy Snuggerud, led to the emergency recall of Matt Luff from the AHL as a precautionary measure. Suter is on the verge of returning from a high ankle sprain.

Matt Luff Recalled to Blues Roster on Emergency Basis Amid Injury Concerns

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St. Louis Blues winger Matt Luff has been recalled from the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds on an emergency basis for the second consecutive day. This move provides insurance as the Blues await the status of several players, including Jake Neighbours, Jimmy Snuggerud, and Pius Suter, who are game-time decisions for Saturday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Luff, 28, has scored one goal in five NHL games this season and has 13 goals and 33 points in 33 AHL games. He is likely to be sent back down if no lineup spots open.

Jimmy Snuggerud Expected to Play for Blues After Maintenance Day

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St. Louis Blues forward Jimmy Snuggerud, who took a maintenance day from Friday's practice, is considered a game-time decision but is expected to play on Saturday against the Columbus Blue Jackets. His status, along with Jake Neighbours and Pius Suter, prompted the emergency recall of Matt Luff from the AHL as a precautionary measure.

Jake Neighbours Expected to Play for Blues Despite Maintenance Day

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St. Louis Blues forward Jake Neighbours, who was absent from Friday's practice for a maintenance day, is considered a game-time decision but is expected to play on Saturday against the Columbus Blue Jackets. His availability, along with Jimmy Snuggerud and Pius Suter, led to the emergency recall of Matt Luff from the AHL as an insurance measure. Neighbours had been questionable for a previous game but ultimately played.

Maple Leafs' Nylander Skates, Targets Saturday Return from Groin Injury

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William Nylander (groin) skated on the second line during Friday's practice session and also participated on the first power-play unit. This suggests he could return to the lineup for Saturday's game against Vancouver. Nylander had hoped to return during the Maple Leafs' four-game road trip, and despite missing Thursday's game against Seattle, his encouraging participation in Friday's practice session indicates a potential return two days later.

Robert Thomas (Lower Body) Day-to-Day, Possible Return Before Olympic Break

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St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas (lower body) remains day-to-day and could potentially return before the Olympic break, having been sidelined since January 10th. While his return for upcoming games against Columbus, Nashville, or Dallas isn't guaranteed, the possibility exists. The 26-year-old has 11 goals and 33 points in 42 games this season and is expected to resume a top-six role and first power-play unit upon his healthy return. Thomas is also identified as a high-profile trade target for teams like the Detroit Red Wings, who seek a young, impact center.

Chychrun Delivers Three Assists, Reaches 41 Points in 53 Games

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Jakob Chychrun was instrumental in the Washington Capitals' 4-3 shootout win over the Red Wings, recording three assists and a plus-3 rating. This performance extended his recent hot streak, giving him five helpers over his last three contests. The 27-year-old defenseman continues to be a high-level offensive contributor, now boasting 41 points (18 goals, 23 assists) in 53 games this season. He has also accumulated 167 shots on net, 73 blocked shots, 47 PIM, 45 hits, and a plus-23 rating, maintaining steady top-four minutes and power-play time.

Brad Marchand Exits Blues Game with Undisclosed Injury, Awaiting Re-evaluation

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Florida Panthers winger Brad Marchand was forced to leave Thursday's game against the St. Louis Blues with an undisclosed injury after skating just 11:19 of ice time. Coach Paul Maurice stated Marchand would be re-evaluated to determine the severity. This comes after Marchand recently returned from missing six games due to a collision, scoring two goals and four points in four games since his return. The 37-year-old has 25 goals and 50 points in 45 games this season. A long-term absence could significantly impact the Panthers' playoff chances and his Olympic participation.