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NHL News

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

Monday, November 17, 2025

Adrian Kempe Signs Massive 8-Year, $85 Million Extension with Los Angeles Kings

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Adrian Kempe has agreed to an eight-year, $85 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Kings, keeping the forward with the team through the 2033-34 season. This deal, with an average annual value of $10.625 million, prevents Kempe from becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer. Kempe, who would have been UFA next summer, has been a crucial offensive player for the Kings over the past four seasons, earning an All-Star selection in 2022 and helping Los Angeles reach the playoffs four consecutive times. He has accumulated 200 goals and 220 assists in his 10-year career, all spent with the Kings. This season, the 29-year-old leads the team with six goals and 13 assists in 19 games and is also on Sweden's initial roster for the 2026 Olympics. Re-signing Kempe was a top priority for new GM Ken Holland, aiming to maintain a foundation of leadership and talent. Kempe joins other notable players like Connor McDavid and Martin Necas in re-signing with their teams before hitting free agency.

Jeremy Swayman Set to Start for Bruins Against Hurricanes, Continues Strong Season

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Jeremy Swayman was the first goalie off the ice at the morning skate, indicating he will start in goal for the Boston Bruins against the Carolina Hurricanes on Monday. The 26-year-old goalie has been performing well this season, holding a record of 8-4-0 with a 2.99 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage through 12 appearances. Swayman has been particularly strong during his current five-game winning streak, allowing only 12 goals on 156 shots. His recent success includes a 28-save performance in a 2-1 victory over the Hurricanes on November 1st. Swayman is under contract with the Bruins through an eight-year, $66 million deal signed in October 2024. Carolina enters the game tied for second in the league with an average of 3.67 goals per game.

Jake Neighbours Nears Return, Practices Monday and Joins Blues Road Trip

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St. Louis Blues forward Jake Neighbours (leg) participated in Monday's practice on November 17, 2025, signaling he is nearing a return to the lineup. The 23-year-old left wing is set to accompany the Blues on their upcoming five-game road trip and is expected to return at some point during that stretch, with an estimated return date of November 20, 2025. However, he will miss his 12th consecutive game against Toronto on Tuesday. Neighbours, who signed a two-year, $7.5 million contract in October 2024, has recorded six goals, one assist, 12 shots on net, and 20 hits through eight appearances this season.

Florian Xhekaj's AHL Struggles Delay Canadiens Call-Up Despite Injuries

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Despite injuries to key players and a desire from some Montreal Canadiens fans to see him in the NHL, Florian Xhekaj has not been called up due to his slow start in the AHL. The 21-year-old prospect, who had a strong training camp, has only managed four points (two goals, two assists) in 15 games for the Laval Rocket this season, spending much of his time in the bottom six. While he did skate on the first line briefly on Saturday, this was an exception. Calling up Xhekaj now would be unfair to other prospects and send the wrong message, according to the team's strategy. Coach Pascal Vincent had aimed for Xhekaj to take the next step this season after scoring 35 points (24 goals) last year. With Joshua Roy and Jared Davidson now with the Canadiens, Xhekaj is expected to receive more ice time with the Rocket. He needs to capitalize on this opportunity to earn a future call-up, especially with Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach out long-term.

Joseph Woll Set for Second Consecutive Start Against Blues on Tuesday

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Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Joseph Woll is slated to make his second consecutive start on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in a home game against the St. Louis Blues. The 27-year-old netminder made his season debut on Saturday against Chicago, where he stopped 29 of 32 shots for a .906 save percentage in a losing effort. Woll, who signed a three-year, $10.98 million contract in July 2024, will face a relatively favorable opponent in the Blues, who currently rank ninth-worst in the league with an average of 2.79 goals per game. His current season stats stand at 0 wins, 1 loss, 0 shutouts, a 3.05 GAA, and a .906 SV%.

Maxim Shabanov's Return Boosts Calum Ritchie and Islanders' Fourth Line

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Maxim Shabanov's return to the New York Islanders' lineup has positively impacted Calum Ritchie and the team's fourth line. Skated alongside Ritchie and Casey Cizikas against the Colorado Avalanche, Shabanov, despite missing 12 games with an upper-body injury, showed strong play. While Ritchie had been solid defensively since his recall, his offensive production had been limited. However, with Shabanov's offensive instincts and skating, the fourth line saw increased offensive zone time. When Shabanov and Ritchie were on the ice together (5:13), the Islanders controlled 77.78% of the Corsi For, limiting the Avalanche to one shot while generating two shots and two scoring chances themselves. Head coach Patrick Roy praised Shabanov's performance, noting his willingness to engage physically after his injury. Roy also commented on the "good buzz" and puck possession demonstrated by the trio. The Cizikas-Ritchie-Shabanov line represents the fastest iteration of the Islanders' fourth line, and they are expected to build on this performance against the Dallas Stars.

Drew Doughty Out Week-to-Week with Lower Body Injury; Career Stats and Fantasy Outlook Detailed

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Drew Doughty has been labeled week-to-week with a lower body injury, according to Zach Dooley of the Kings' official site. Doughty, a Norris Trophy winner and key part of the Kings' Stanley Cup victories, recorded 15 goals and 50 points in 82 games during the 2023-24 season, marking his second consecutive campaign with at least 50 points. Historically, Doughty has been a workhorse defenseman, averaging significant ice time throughout his career, including ranking 10th in career ice time among all players since 1997-98. Despite past injury concerns, including a serious ankle injury in preseason and limited games in 2021-22 due to knee and wrist issues, he has consistently provided strong offensive production, often on pace for 40-50 points. He remains a cornerstone for the Kings, anchoring their defense and power play, and is expected to continue providing valuable fantasy contributions in hits and blocks. His contract extends for five more years, indicating his long-term importance to the team's rebuild.

Colten Ellis Tending the Crease for Buffalo Sabres vs. Oilers

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Colten Ellis will start in goal for the Buffalo Sabres against the Edmonton Oilers on Monday. The 25-year-old goalie has played limited minutes for the Sabres this season but has been effective, holding a 2-1-0 record with a 3.35 goals-against average and a .895 save percentage over three appearances. Ellis is coming off an overtime win in Detroit on Saturday and will be making back-to-back starts for the first time this season. The Oilers' offense averages 3.10 goals per game, ranking 16th in the league. Ellis signed a two-year, two-way contract extension with the Blues in March 2025 and was claimed off waivers by the Sabres in October 2025.

Jonathan Quick's Fiery Bench Charge in Red Wings-Rangers Brawl Praised by NHL Insider

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New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick ignited a massive brawl during Sunday night's game against the Detroit Red Wings after charging off the bench to confront Detroit's Mason Appleton for an empty-net attempt. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman expressed strong approval of Quick's passion, stating he "loved" the emotion and that the league would benefit from more players displaying such fierce dedication. Despite the controversy, the Red Wings secured a 3-1 victory. Quick made 40 saves on 42 shots in the game, while his counterpart, Cam Talbot, faced 19 shots, stopping 18. The incident occurred in the final seconds of the game at Madison Square Garden, leading to a scrum involving all players as the final horn sounded.

Charlie McAvoy: Injury Status Uncertain, Past Performance Highlights Value

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Charlie McAvoy is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury, and there is no definitive timeline for his return to the Boston Bruins lineup. Despite missing time, McAvoy has a history of strong performance, setting personal bests in goals and contributing significantly to the team's offense and defense. In the 2023-24 season, he achieved a new personal best with 12 goals, though he fell short of the 50-point mark for the first time in three years, partly due to decreased power-play points. Historically, McAvoy has been a consistent point producer, often exceeding 50 points and logging over 24 minutes of ice time per game. He has also been recognized for his contributions, finishing fifth in Norris Trophy voting in 2020-21. His career statistics show a reliable fantasy floor with upside, marked by consistent goal and point totals, significant blocked shots, and hits. Despite past injuries, including shoulder surgery in 2022-23, McAvoy is considered a key player for the Bruins, capable of making an impact at both ends of the ice.

Sergei Bobrovsky to Start in Net Monday Against Canucks

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Sergei Bobrovsky will be the starting goaltender for the Florida Panthers at home against the Vancouver Canucks on Monday. Bobrovsky had an elite 2023-24 season, tying for first in shutouts (six), ranking third in wins (36) and GAA (2.37), and tied for seventh in save percentage (.915). He was instrumental in the Panthers' postseason success, earning 16 wins to secure the Stanley Cup and earning a Vezina Trophy nomination. Despite turning 36, Bobrovsky remains a top-tier goaltender, investing heavily in his health to maintain his elite status. Fantasy managers can expect him to be among the NHL's top five netminders. While his regular-season performance in 2022-23 saw a 3.07 GAA and .901 save percentage, his postseason run showcased his capabilities with a 2.78 GAA and .915 save percentage. He has consistently posted save percentages above .910 in previous seasons and is expected to be a strong bet for wins, though his secondary statistics may hover around league average. Bobrovsky's career includes two Vezina trophies and a history of strong performances, even when playing behind a developing defense.

Maxence Guenette Traded to Philadelphia Flyers, Signs One-Year Deal

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Defenseman Maxence Guenette, a 24-year-old right-shot blueliner, was traded by the Ottawa Senators to the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday, November 17, 2025, in exchange for Dennis Gilbert. An unsigned restricted free agent at the time of the trade, Guenette promptly agreed to a one-year, two-way contract with the Flyers, valued at $225,000 at the AHL level. He had not played this season due to his contract status. Last season, he recorded nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points in 58 games with the Belleville Senators, and his best AHL scoring season was 2022-23 with five goals and 35 assists in 72 games. A 2019 seventh-round pick by Ottawa, Guenette has 116 points in 236 career AHL games and has played eight career NHL games. He is expected to report to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the Flyers' AHL affiliate, and immediately slot into a top-four role, serving as depth for the Flyers.

Josh Norris Making Progress, Potential Early Return from Injury

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Josh Norris is showing progress and could return ahead of schedule from an upper-body injury, having participated in Monday's morning skate. This comes after undergoing a third shoulder surgery before turning 25, which raises concerns for fantasy managers. Despite his injury history, Norris has demonstrated significant offensive potential when healthy, recording 30 points in 50 games last year and 88 points (including 35 on the power play) in 124 games over the last three seasons. He also plays with a physical edge, averaging about a hit per game. The Senators are expected to provide him with a top-six role and power-play time if he proves healthy. Norris's potential as a 50-60 point center keeps him on the fantasy radar, especially as he is only 24 years old. He previously scored 35 goals in 66 games in the 2022-23 season, buoyed by a high shooting percentage, and was rewarded with an eight-year, $63.6 million contract. Originally drafted by the Sharks and acquired by Ottawa in the Erik Karlsson trade, Norris was named to the NHL's All-Rookie Team in his freshman campaign. He has also shown promise in the AHL, earning MVP honors with 31 goals and 61 points in 56 games.

Jason Zucker Nearing Return, Reflects on Career Ups and Downs with Multiple Teams

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Jason Zucker, currently with the Buffalo Sabres on a one-year, $5 million contract, is nearing a return to game action, with head coach Lindy Ruff indicating he could be back by this weekend. Zucker's career has seen significant fluctuations, including a strong 2017-18 season with Minnesota where he posted 27 goals and 48 points, and a notable increase in hits in 2023-24. He has played for Arizona, Nashville, and Pittsburgh, with his time in Pittsburgh seeing him play alongside Evgeni Malkin on the second line and achieve career highs. Despite past injury concerns and inconsistent production, such as a 7.8 percent shooting percentage in one season and lower point-per-game averages in others, Zucker has demonstrated the ability to score 20 goals. His contract situations have varied, with a one-year, $5.3 million deal with Arizona and a five-year extension with Minnesota previously. His recent seasons have been impacted by injuries and lower-body issues, affecting his ice time and production.

Eetu Luostarinen Out with Lower-Body Injury, Misses Monday's Game

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Eetu Luostarinen has been ruled out of Monday's game against the Canucks due to a lower-body injury. He is estimated to return around November 20, 2025. Luostarinen, a 27-year-old left wing, signed a three-year, $9 million contract with the Florida Panthers in July 2023. Recently, he had been on a hot streak, accumulating three goals and 10 points in his last 11 appearances, along with 27 hits, 13 blocked shots, six penalty minutes, and a plus-5 rating while averaging 17:22 of ice time. Despite this recent performance, he is now considered day-to-day. Mackie Samoskevich is expected to take his place on the top line for Monday's game.

Charlie Lindgren Set to Start Against Kings, Reflects on Breakout Season

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Charlie Lindgren is slated to start in goal for the Washington Capitals against the Los Angeles Kings on Monday. Lindgren experienced a remarkable 2023-24 season, earning Vezina and Hart trophy votes with a 26-16-7 record, a 2.67 goals-against average, and a .911 save percentage, which was instrumental in the Capitals reaching the postseason. This breakout performance at age 30 has raised expectations, though the team's acquisition of Logan Thompson suggests a potential platoon situation. Lindgren's previous season with the Capitals saw mixed results (13-11-3, 3.05 GAA, .899 SV%) as a backup to Darcy Kuemper. Earlier in his career, he signed a three-year, $3.3 million deal with Washington after a strong performance with the Canadiens where he posted a 5-0-0 record with a 1.22 GAA and .958 save percentage. His fantasy outlook has been impacted by team changes and depth charts throughout his career, including his time with the Montreal Canadiens where he was once considered an heir apparent to Carey Price but faced competition and AHL struggles.

Elvis Merzlikins to Start Tuesday, Navigates Challenging Season and Team Dynamics

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Elvis Merzlikins is scheduled to start Tuesday's road game against the Winnipeg Jets for the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 2023-24 season has been a turbulent one for Merzlikins, marked by inconsistent play, a reported trade request, and public disagreements with management, all while playing behind a struggling team. His performance has declined since his rookie season, with a 13-17-8 record, a 3.45 GAA, and a .897 save percentage in 2023-24. The Blue Jackets have brought in new personnel, including goaltending coach Niklas Backstrom, and face competition from Daniil Tarasov. Merzlikins' contract situation, with three years remaining on a $5.4 million AAV deal, makes a trade difficult. In previous seasons, he posted a 7-18-2 record with a 4.23 GAA and .876 save percentage in 2022-23, but was still expected to be the starter. His numbers in 2020-21 saw a GAA of 2.77 and a .916 save percentage. He has shown flashes of elite potential, including a remarkable stretch in late December to mid-February where he posted a 1.51 GAA and .953 save percentage, though a concussion ended that run. Despite competition from Joonas Korpisalo in the past, Merzlikins has the size, skills, and athleticism to succeed, though his aggressive style can lead to variability.

Jet Greaves Earns Starting Role, Shows Strong Recent Performance for Blue Jackets

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Jet Greaves will start in goal for the Columbus Blue Jackets at home against the Canadiens on Monday. Greaves, who signed a two-year, $1.625 million contract in July 2024, has recently usurped Elvis Merzlikins as the team's No. 1 goaltender. He has won his last two starts, making 52 saves on 59 shots in wins over Seattle and Edmonton. In his current season, the 24-year-old has a 5-4-1 record with a 3.00 GAA and an .897 save percentage. Greaves recently made 31 saves on 32 shots in a 2-1 shootout loss to the Rangers on November 15, 2025, and the previous day, he stopped 25 of 29 shots in a 5-4 win over the Oilers. He also secured a 2-1 shootout win against the Kraken on November 11, 2025, making 22 saves on 23 shots. He was slated to make his fourth consecutive start on November 15, 2025.

Jack Hughes Out Eight Weeks After Freak Off-Ice Injury; Devils Face Significant Challenge

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New Jersey Devils star Jack Hughes will be sidelined for approximately eight weeks following a "freak accident" where he sustained a cut from glass at a team dinner. The injury required surgery on his finger, with an expected recovery time of eight weeks, impacting his availability for Team USA's Olympic preparations which begin in about 12 weeks. This latest setback adds to Hughes' career history of significant injury absences, despite his current strong performance of 10 goals and 20 points in 17 games this season. Pundits had suggested this could be the year he reaches 100 points, a feat previously unattained by a Devil. The Devils will now navigate the next two months without their elite player, a challenge highlighted by his significant impact on the team's performance when in the lineup. Observers debate whether Hughes is nearing the "injuries plagued him" narrative, similar to past Hall of Fame talents like Cam Neely, Peter Forsberg, and Eric Lindros, despite his undeniable creativity and elite shot.

David Kampf Pens Emotional Farewell to Maple Leafs, Signs One-Year Deal with Canucks

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After mutually parting ways with the Toronto Maple Leafs, David Kampf has signed a one-year contract worth $1.1 million with the Vancouver Canucks. The Czech forward posted an emotional goodbye message on Instagram to the Maple Leafs organization and fans, expressing gratitude for his four seasons in Toronto where he scored 21 goals and 54 assists in 301 games. Kampf's departure from the Leafs came after his contract was terminated, allowing him to pursue new opportunities, potentially with an eye on representing his country in the upcoming Olympics. He reportedly left approximately $3 million on the table, including $2.4 million for the 2025-26 season, indicating his strong desire to play in the NHL. Last season, injuries and scratches limited Kampf to 59 games, and he did not make the Maple Leafs' season-opening roster, spending time with the AHL Marlies before leaving the club.