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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Anthony Stolarz (upper body) has not yet returned to the ice, Lance Hornby of The Toronto Sun reported Thursday. Stolarz was one of the best backup goalies last season, picking up 16 wins in 27 games (16-7-2) with a 2.03 GAA and .925 save percentage, and is now in Toronto poised to share the crease with Joseph Woll.
Nick Paul (upper body) has been activated from injured reserve by the Lightning, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reported Thursday. Paul set career highs in 2023-24 with 24 goals and 46 points in 82 regular-season games, playing 17:16 per contest and shooting at a career-high 15.7 percent. He offers versatility by supplying 100-125 hits and has won 54 percent of his faceoffs over the past two seasons.
Joel Hofer will be between the visiting pipes for the Blues against the Flyers in Philadelphia on Thursday, Adam Kimelman of NHL.com reported. The 25-year-old goalie holds a 2-4-1 record with one shutout, a 4.04 GAA, and an .867 save percentage across nine games this season, which is his worst NHL season to date. He signed a two-year, $6.8 million contract with the Blues in June of 2025.
Jake Neighbours (leg) was activated from injured reserve Thursday, November 20, 2025. His recovery was much faster than expected, as he was initially slated to miss at least five weeks after suffering the injury on Oct. 25. The 23-year-old left wing is the Blues' top goal scorer with six goals and an assist in eight games. He signed a two-year, $7.5 million contract with the Blues in October 2024.
Sergei Bobrovsky will get the starting nod at home versus the Devils on Thursday. Bobrovsky was an elite fantasy goaltender in 2023-24, finishing tied for first in shutouts (six), third in wins (36), and tied for seventh in save percentage (.915). He also secured 16 wins in the postseason to earn the Stanley Cup and was nominated for his third Vezina Trophy. Despite turning 36 to start the season, the Russian netminder remains elite due to his dedication to health.
Andrei Vasilevskiy was the first goalie off during Thursday's morning skate, signaling he'll draw the home start against the Oilers. Vasilevskiy won 30 games in 2023-24 despite missing almost two months at the start of the year after offseason back surgery. He began to look like his old self down the stretch and spent the summer building his strength back. Vasilevskiy remains an elite option in net, known for his rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism, and is expected to return to all-star form despite his 2023-24 stats of a 2.90 GAA and .900 save percentage.
Dan Vladar will defend the home goal versus St. Louis on Thursday. Vladar will try to rebound from his mediocre performance in Dallas on Saturday, where he allowed five goals on 28 shots in a 5-1 loss. Overall, the 28-year-old is 6-4-1 with a 2.42 GAA and a .909 save percentage this season, having solidified the goaltending situation in Philadelphia. He signed a two-year, $6.7 million contract with the Flyers in July 2025.
Rasmus Andersson contributed significantly to the Calgary Flames' 6-2 victory over the Sabres on Wednesday, tallying three points. He scored one goal on three shots and added two assists. Andersson also recorded three blocked shots and finished with a plus-2 rating. Historically, Andersson had two strong seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23 with 50 and 49 points respectively, before a step back last year with nine goals and 39 points across 78 games. This decline was partly due to a reduced power-play role after the acquisition of Yegor Sharangovich. Despite expectations that this arrangement will continue in 2024-25, making an offensive bounce back unlikely, Andersson is still anticipated to provide around 40 points and over 130 blocks for the third consecutive campaign. He scored 11 goals and added 38 assists last season, cementing his status as the top blueliner with 24:05 of ice time. He remains a threat on the power play, and while his shooting percentage might not match his career-high from last year, his assist numbers are expected to rebound if the Flames find their scoring touch. Andersson has blocked 125 and 136 shots in the last two seasons. He is not an overly physical defenseman but his production and role should make him a top-120 fantasy pick. Fantasy managers who drafted him a year ago got good value, but that is unlikely to be the case this season. He recently completed a career-best campaign with 46 assists and 50 points in all 82 games, adding 19 power-play points, 152 shots, 63 hits, and 125 blocks. Despite potential team setbacks due to player departures, Andersson is expected to play over 22 minutes per game, including significant power-play time, giving him a high fantasy floor in 2022-23. He saw substantial power-play time (2:44 per game) last season, but his final numbers (5 goals, 21 points in 56 games) were similar to the previous year (5 goals, 22 points in 70 games) when he averaged less power-play ice time (1:29 per game). Andersson's primary asset is his locked-in major role on the Calgary blueline, and he needs to pile up points to be an attractive fantasy option, offering less in blocks and hits than a typical defenseman. He took a marginal step forward with five goals and 22 points in 70 appearances last season, but struggled defensively with a minus-7 rating. He is expected to fill a full-time, top-four role in 2020-21, which should boost his scoring. Andersson also saw power-play time and was expected to reprise his role on the second unit in 2020-21. For a full season, he was projected to approach 30 points with 140 shots, 50-plus PIM, and 90 blocked shots. In his first full NHL season in 2018-19, he played 79 games with 19 points (two goals, 17 assists) and 115 shots. He typically played on the third pairing but sometimes alongside Mark Giordano. His plus-17 rating demonstrated defensive capability, earning him the trust of coach Bill Peters. He was expected to improve in 2019-20, potentially reaching 30 points and 140 shots. If he secured more time on the top pairing, he could be in line for a breakout season within two to three years. He spent most of the previous season with AHL Stockton, recording nine goals and 30 assists in 56 games, and also played 10 NHL games without registering a point. He was expected to spend most of the year in the minors again, but replicating his plus-20 rating could lead to more NHL opportunities.
Joel Farabee scored two goals in the Flyers' 6-2 victory over the Sabres on Wednesday, November 20, 2025. This performance snapped a six-game point drought and marked his first multi-point game of the 2025-26 season. Through 22 contests this season, Farabee has accumulated four goals and nine points. He signed a six-year, $30 million contract extension with the Flyers in September 2021.
John Carlson recorded three assists, two penalty minutes, and a plus-4 rating in the Washington Capitals' 7-4 win over the Oilers on Wednesday. He surpassed the 50-point mark for the sixth time in his career in 2023-24, with 10 goals and 42 assists in 82 regular-season games. Carlson scored only one goal in his first 35 games but finished the season strong with nine tallies and 33 points in 47 outings. Despite some power-play struggles, he had 21 power-play points and registered 176 shots on goal, 194 blocked shots, and 69 hits. The 34-year-old defenseman is expected to see improved offensive numbers following Washington's retooling. A skull fracture from a shot block sidelined him from December to March, during which he had 21 points in 30 games before returning with eight points in 10 outings. Carlson, who has not been prone to frequent injuries, is expected to help stabilize the Capitals' defense. He is projected to be a 60-70 point player this year, quarterbacking the top power-play unit and contributing in blocked shots. Due to missed time, he could be a value pick in fantasy drafts. Carlson has consistently provided high-floor, high-ceiling fantasy production, reaching at least 70 points in three of the past four seasons. His 17 goals last year were a career high, and he has posted at least 25 power-play points in five of the last six seasons. Despite turning 33 in January, he is expected to remain productive, health permitting, given his significant power-play ice time. Carlson is considered a legitimate No. 1 fantasy defenseman for 2022-23. He ranked fifth among NHL defensemen in points (44) and goals (10) in 2020-21 and is a top fantasy option on the blue line, averaging 0.91 points per game over the past four seasons with double-digit goals in each of them. Carlson is not overly reliant on the power play, with 29 even-strength points in 2020-21. He is expected to be one of the first defensemen selected in fantasy drafts for 2021-22. Last season, he led all defensemen with 60 assists and 75 points in 69 games, adding 189 shots, 26 power-play points, and 108 hits, solidifying his status as a premier fantasy defenseman. While repeating his near record-breaking 2019-20 performance is unlikely, double-digit goals and around 70 points over a full season are the norm, and this is expected to continue into his age-30 season in 2020-21. He was considered a top-three fantasy option at his position. His eight-year, $64 million extension after Washington's Stanley Cup win was justified by his 2018-19 performance, where he recorded 13 goals and reached 70 points for the first time. With heavy minutes and power-play time, Carlson is a top-tier fantasy defenseman. He set career highs in goals (15), assists (53), and points (68) in 82 games in 2017-18, and continued his strong play in the playoffs with five goals and 20 points in 24 contests. He signed an eight-year, $64 million extension, and is expected to be a key contributor, quarterbacking an elite power-play. His fantasy value remains considerable. He missed 36 games over the previous two seasons and saw his scoring rate drop, making him a curious fantasy valuation for 2017-18. His puck-moving ability is elite, and he shoots frequently, benefiting from playing with Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom on the power play. At 27, he was expected to have plenty of good hockey left and was entering the final season of his contract, looking to earn a big paycheck. After a breakout two years prior, expectations were high, and he delivered when healthy, with his points per game ticking up slightly despite missing 26 games due to injury. With a full offseason to recover and a prime role feeding talented forwards, he was expected to resume his place among fantasy hockey's most valuable defenders. Carlson's 55 points and 200 hits in the previous season were impressive, especially considering he played tough minutes against opponents' best players and often started in the defensive zone. With Mike Green's departure, more offensive opportunities were expected, potentially reaching 60 points. He was considered a Norris Trophy candidate and a strong fantasy draft pick. Despite the acquisition of other defensemen, Carlson was expected to be a driving force on the blue line. His increased role and time on the top power-play unit led to him averaging 24:30 of ice time per game. He was expected to maintain his offensive production even with a potentially more defensive role under a new coach. Given competition for minutes, there was some bust potential, but he was still expected to be drafted highly. He earned 22 points in 48 games in the 2013-2014 season, on pace for 40 points, close to his 37 points in 2010-2011. He was a good source for assists and shots. He tied for eighth among defensemen in goals (9) and 19th in points (32) the previous season. He played 82 games in each of the last two seasons, averaging over 21 minutes. He had cracked 30 points in his first two full NHL seasons and was expected to develop further, shouldering the offensive load. Projections were for just under 10 goals, low 20s in assists, and mid-30s in points. Drafted in 2008, he made the NHL two years later and was considered the next best thing to Mike Green. He was physical and had a partner who could cover for him. He posted 37 points in his first year and had the potential for 60-plus. He was considered a good blue line option. Carlson possesses the size, strength, and skating ability to be a talented defenseman, playing responsibly in his own end. He showed flashes of being a top defensive scorer and was expected to play a significant role, potentially becoming a breakout fantasy producer. He is responsible defensively, plays smart hockey, is good on the penalty kill, and is fast and agile. He has emerged as a strong offensive-defenseman. He gave up his commitment to the University of Massachusetts for the OHL's London Knights. He was not considered as talented as other 2008 draft defenders but was expected to play in the NHL within five years. He appeared in 22 games (1G, 5A, +11) for the Capitals and gained trust, starting all seven playoff contests where he posted a goal, three assists, and a plus-six rating, providing invaluable experience.
Tom Wilson scored two goals on two shots and contributed significantly to the Washington Capitals' 7-4 victory over the Oilers on Wednesday. He also added four hits, three blocked shots, two penalty minutes, and a plus-3 rating. In the 2023-24 campaign, Wilson produced 18 goals and 35 points in 74 games, a decrease from his previous five seasons, but maintained his trademark physicality with 133 PIM and 228 hits. Despite the Capitals' scoring struggles last season, Wilson and other players are expected to have bounce-back potential in 2024-25. The 30-year-old forward is projected to score over 20 goals and potentially reach 50 points, while exceeding 150 shots and 200 hits, making him a solid target in banger leagues. After recovering from ACL surgery and a lower-body injury, Wilson had a decent 2022-23 season with 22 points, 97 hits, and 78 PIM in 33 games. He signed a seven-year contract and is expected to be a top-line force for the Capitals, capable of playing some power-play minutes. Wilson's best season was in 2021-22 with 52 points, and improved health could help him reach those heights again. In 2021-22, he avoided suspensions and missed only four regular-season games due to an upper-body injury, finishing with career highs in goals (24), assists (28), points (52), and power-play points (10), along with 240 hits. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL in Game 1 of the playoffs, requiring surgery and an expected return around December, making him a risky fantasy pick. In 2020-21, Wilson's productive season was overshadowed by his physical play and two suspensions. He possesses the offensive skills for a top-six role and has improved defensively, but his primary value to Washington comes from antagonizing opponents. With consistent ice time and talented linemates, he may not have reached his fantasy ceiling. Wilson is a valuable fantasy asset with 25-goal, 50-point, and 150-PIM potential, especially in leagues that count hits. He plays alongside elite forwards like Alexander Ovechkin. Wilson has emerged as a valuable two-way winger, setting career highs in goals (22) and points (40) in just 63 games in 2019-20. Once a niche fantasy commodity for leagues emphasizing hits and PIMs, his increased role in the top six has broadened his fantasy appeal. Wilson is known for his blend of skill and physicality, climbing from a third-line role to a top-forward position. His 14 goals and 35 points in 78 games were career highs, but his lack of self-control led to three suspensions. With a six-year, $31 million extension, his growing skill set and role offer breakout potential. In 2016-17, Wilson played all 82 games, scoring seven goals on 95 shots and averaging 12:56 of ice time. His PIM and hit totals dipped slightly but remained high (133 PIM, 239 hits), establishing him as a premier bruiser. At 23, he was expected to continue in this role, but an offensive breakout was not anticipated. He was not expected to secure a steady top-six role or power-play time, with any offense considered a bonus. He was a great play in fantasy leagues that count PIM and hits, racking up huge totals. However, his offensive production remained limited, with seven goals and 23 points representing career highs. He was not expected to see top-six or power-play minutes unless due to injuries. At 22, he had the upside to develop into a more well-rounded fantasy asset. Wilson has become the Capitals' de facto enforcer, known for his hitting and fighting, but also possesses decent hands and a willingness to go to the net. He had the potential to become a top-nine forward. He was a first-round draft pick. In his first season, he compiled 151 penalty minutes but had less impressive offensive numbers. He needed to stay out of the penalty box to improve his scoring. An offseason ankle injury made his season start questionable, and he was expected to spend time in the AHL to develop his offensive skills. He possessed Milan Lucic-like upside in keeper leagues but was difficult to draft in single-season leagues due to development questions and injury. At 19, he saw three playoff games and was expected to be tested in camp. He was a player to watch in keeper leagues but several years away from the NHL.
Connor McMichael, the 24-year-old center, recorded three assists, two hits, two blocked shots, and a plus-3 rating in Wednesday's 7-4 victory over the Oilers. He won the battle of the Connors against McDavid, who only managed two assists. McMichael is currently on a modest three-game point streak, accumulating a goal and six points, though he is having trouble maintaining the pace from his breakout 2024-25 campaign. Through 20 games in 2025-26, he has two goals and 10 points. He signed a two-year, $4.2 million contract with the Capitals in July of 2024.
Ryan Leonard, the 20-year-old rookie right wing, scored two goals in Wednesday's 7-4 victory over the Oilers, marking his first career multi-point performance in his 29th NHL game. He got pucks past Stuart Skinner in both the first and second periods, snapping a 12-game goal drought. Leonard, the eighth overall pick in the 2023 Draft, has remained fairly productive in his first full season at the top level, accumulating four goals and nine points over his last 15 contests. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Capitals in March of 2025.
Darnell Nurse scored two goals on four shots on net, adding two blocked shots and a plus-1 rating in Wednesday's 7-4 loss to the Capitals. Nurse, an all-around blueliner, is currently on an eight-year, $74 million contract that runs through 2029-30. He is typically used on the second power-play unit and is expected to finish in the 30-40 point range. He recorded a career-best 43 points (12 goals) in 2022-23, along with 203 shots, 165 blocked shots, 146 hits, 64 PIM, and a plus-26 rating over 82 games. He has posted 30-plus points for four straight years, including 35 points in a season where he played through a torn hip flexor during the Oilers' Western Conference Finals run, missed games with a finger injury and a lower-body issue, and was suspended one playoff game for a headbutting incident. Nurse, who plays over 25 minutes per game, is known for his physical play, consistently recording over 300 combined hits and blocks annually. The 26-year-old, drafted seventh overall in 2013, has shown 50-point potential and comes from impressive bloodlines, with his uncle being NFL QB Donovan McNabb.
Morgan Geekie scored two power-play goals and recorded seven hits in Wednesday's 4-3 loss to the Ducks. This performance brings his season total to 14 goals and 20 points through 22 appearances, tying him for the NHL goal lead with Nathan MacKinnon and Leon Draisaitl. Geekie, a 27-year-old center, also has 56 shots on net, 39 hits, and a minus-8 rating. He signed a six-year, $33 million contract extension with the Bruins in June of 2025 and has shown undeniable chemistry with David Pastrnak on the team's top line.
Jackson Blake, a 22-year-old right wing for the Carolina Hurricanes, scored twice on four shots in Wednesday's 4-3 shootout loss to the Wild. He has been particularly effective against Minnesota this season, recording three goals and an assist in two games. Over his last eight outings, Blake has tallied three goals and four assists. For the season, he has accumulated six goals, 15 points, 49 shots, 14 PIM, and a plus-5 rating through 20 appearances. Blake is currently playing on the Hurricanes' second line. He signed an eight-year, $45 million contract extension with the Hurricanes in July of 2025.
Winnipeg Jets captain Adam Lowry has signed a five-year, $25 million contract extension, set to begin next season. The 32-year-old center has spent his entire 12-year NHL career with the Jets, serving as captain since the 2023-24 season. Lowry, a 6-foot-5 St. Louis native, has recorded one goal and two assists in seven games this season. Throughout his 782-game career, he has accumulated 122 goals and 154 assists, solidifying his long-term commitment to the Winnipeg franchise.
Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy underwent surgery on Wednesday to repair facial injuries. He was hit in the mouth by Noah Dobson's slap shot during the second period of Boston's 3-2 victory in Montreal on Saturday and will be sidelined indefinitely. Bruins coach Marco Sturm provided an update, stating, "He's doing good. He's recovering right now at home. We still don't know how long he's going to be out for." Prior to the injury, McAvoy had recorded 14 assists in 19 games this season.
Devin Cooley is slated to start in goal for the Calgary Flames on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, on the road against the Buffalo Sabres. The 28-year-old goalie, who signed a two-year contract with the Flames in July 2024, has made five appearances this season, holding an 0-2-1 record with a 1.75 GAA. Despite starter Dustin Wolf receiving a heavy workload, Cooley is expected to get more opportunities, particularly during back-to-back games, with potential starts against the Stars or Canucks this weekend. His recent performances include allowing one goal on 18 shots in a November 9th loss to the Wild, stopping all 12 shots in relief during a November 1st loss to the Predators, and turning aside 35 shots in regulation and overtime in an October 31st shootout loss to the Senators.
Colten Ellis, the 25-year-old goaltender for the Buffalo Sabres, is confirmed to start at home against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This will be his third consecutive start, following two wins where he allowed five goals on 61 shots. Ellis, who was claimed off waivers by the Sabres in October 2025 after signing a two-year, two-way extension with the Blues in March 2025, has a 2025 season record of 3 wins, 1 loss, 0 shutouts, a 2.76 GAA, and a .914 SV%. He appears to be making a strong push for more playing time within the Sabres' goaltending trio, which also includes Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Alex Lyon.
