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NHL News

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

Thursday, November 6, 2025

Cutter Gauthier Explodes with Hat Trick, Leads NHL in Goals for Ducks

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Anaheim Ducks forward Cutter Gauthier, 21, recorded his first career hat trick on Tuesday, propelling him into a five-way tie for the NHL lead with 10 goals. Gauthier is currently on an impressive seven-game point streak dating back to October 21, accumulating 10 goals, 6 assists, and 16 points in just 12 games with the Ducks. He is the first NHL player aged 21 or younger to score 10 goals in his first 12 games of a season since Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews did so in the 2018-19 season. His stellar performance highlights a significant missed opportunity for the Philadelphia Flyers, who traded him for Jamie Drysdale and Jack Murtagh.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Tyler Bertuzzi Explodes for Third-Period Hat Trick in Blackhawks' Victory

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Tyler Bertuzzi delivered a spectacular performance for the Chicago Blackhawks, erupting for a third-period hat trick in Wednesday's 5-2 win against the Canucks. Beyond his three goals, Bertuzzi also contributed physically, adding two hits and logging two penalty minutes. This offensive outburst was a key factor in securing the victory for his team.

Spencer Knight Shines with 43 Saves in Blackhawks' Win Against Canucks

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Spencer Knight showcased a dominant performance in goal for the Chicago Blackhawks, stopping an impressive 43 of 45 shots faced during Wednesday's 5-2 victory over the Canucks. His stellar goaltending was crucial in holding off the opposition and securing the win for his team, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.

Macklin Celebrini Dominates with Three-Point Performance in Sharks' 6-1 Victory

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Macklin Celebrini delivered a stellar performance in Wednesday's 6-1 win against the Kraken, contributing significantly with a goal and two assists, totaling three points. He also registered two shots on goal, blocked two shots, accumulated two penalty minutes (PIM), and finished the game with a plus-2 rating. This comprehensive effort was crucial in the San Jose Sharks' decisive victory.

Dustin Wolf Delivers Stellar 42-Save Performance in Flames' Victory

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Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf was exceptionally busy and effective in Wednesday's 5-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Wolf stopped an impressive 42 of the 43 shots he faced, playing a crucial role in securing the victory for his team.

Sean Monahan Sustains Upper-Body Injury Against Flames, Status Under Evaluation

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Columbus Blue Jackets forward Sean Monahan sustained an apparent upper-body injury during Wednesday's game against the Calgary Flames. Following the contest, Monahan was still undergoing evaluation, with his status for future games yet to be determined.

NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman Anticipates Flyers Initiating Trevor Zegras Contract Extension Talks

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NHL insider Elliotte Friedman is beginning to "wonder" about contract extension talks between the Philadelphia Flyers and Trevor Zegras, citing the 24-year-old's "scorching start" to his tenure. Zegras has impressively recorded four goals, 11 assists, and 15 points in just 13 games, accounting for nearly half of the team's 38 goals. Friedman noted, "it looks like a good fit and I can see the Flyers gauging interest in lengthening the relationship," especially given Zegras' comfort with friends Jamie Drysdale and Cam York, who recently extended his own deal. The Flyers, with ample cap space after recent moves, have long coveted Zegras. While Zegras' current $5.75 million cap hit is due for a considerable raise, an $8- or $9 million AAV is suggested, with only Sean Couturier and Travis Konecny currently earning over $7 million on the team. Canadiens star Cole Caufield has also praised Zegras' performance.

Alex Ovechkin Reaches 900-Goal Milestone in Memorable Game

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Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin achieved a significant career milestone on Wednesday, scoring his 900th goal. The historic puck briefly became the subject of a playful attempt by St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington to hide it before it was eventually retrieved by a linesman.

Jordan Binnington Attempts to Keep Alex Ovechkin's 900th Goal Puck

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St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington was involved in a memorable moment during Wednesday's game. After Alex Ovechkin scored his 900th career goal, Binnington was observed playfully tucking the historic puck into the back of his pants before eventually handing it over to a linesman.

Sergei Murashov Called Up to Penguins, Set for NHL Debut Amidst Goalie Injuries

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Goaltending prospect Sergei Murashov has been called up to the Pittsburgh Penguins from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL) on Tuesday and is set to make his NHL debut in the coming days. This move comes as the Penguins face multiple-week injuries to key players, including goaltender Tristan Jarry, along with forwards Justin Brazeau and Noel Acciari. Murashov, who was named AHL's Goaltender of the Month for October with a 5-1 record, 1.68 goals-against average, and .935 save percentage, boasts a 5-2 record, 1.73 GAA, and .931 SV% this season. He is expected to get at least one start during the Penguins' upcoming three-game, four-day stretch, potentially facing Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals on Thursday. Coach Dan Muse remains non-committal on the exact rotation, but Murashov's strong AHL performance positions him as a significant future asset, having previously set a WBS rookie record with 10 consecutive wins.

Jacob Markstrom's New Contract Stabilizes Devils' Goaltending, Sparking Immediate Performance Improvement

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The New Jersey Devils secured their goaltending future by signing veteran Jacob Markstrom, 35, to a two-year, $12 million contract on October 31. This crucial move aims to end the team's past instability in net, which saw five different netminders used last season. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman highlighted the deal as fitting the Devils' "win-now mode," suggesting Markstrom performs better when settled. Markstrom's season began with an injury and a rough return, posting a 2-2-0 record and an .810 save percentage in an 8-4 loss. However, following the extension, he immediately rebounded, recording 43 saves and a primary assist, including a .977 save percentage in a win against the Los Angeles Kings. His season totals improved to a .875 save percentage and 4.17 goals-against average. Markstrom expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is the best place to be and the best team I’ve been on.” With Markstrom and Jake Allen now locked in, General Manager Tom Fitzgerald can focus on strengthening the roster for a Stanley Cup run.

Anthony Stolarz Set to Guard Home Net for Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday

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Anthony Stolarz is slated to start in goal for the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday. He will be protecting the home net against the Mammoth, as reported by Dave McCarthy of NHL.com. This assignment places Stolarz in a key role for the upcoming game, providing an opportunity to contribute to the team's performance from their home ice. Further analysis on this update is available via RotoWire.com.

Vitek Vanecek Confirmed to Start in Goal for Utah Against Toronto Maple Leafs

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Vitek Vanecek is confirmed to start in goal for Utah on Wednesday. He will be guarding the road net against the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to Catherine Bogart of Utah's official site. This assignment puts Vanecek in a crucial position to impact the game's outcome while playing away from home. Additional analysis regarding this update can be found on RotoWire.com.

Easton Cowan Assigned to Marlies After First NHL Goal, Expected to Benefit from AHL Stint

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Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan has been assigned to the AHL's Toronto Marlies, a move that followed his first NHL goal scored last Saturday against the Philadelphia Flyers. This roster adjustment coincided with Scott Laughton's return from a lower-body injury; Cowan, being waivers-exempt, allowed the Maple Leafs to activate Laughton while at the roster limit. In his 10 NHL games, the 20-year-old recorded one goal and three assists, averaging 12:33 of ice time, and saw action across the lineup, including top-line and power-play minutes. Cowan participated in the Maple Leafs' morning skate before the Marlies began a six-game road trip, playing Wednesday evening. While the duration of his AHL stay is uncertain, new rules require him to play at least one AHL game before being eligible for recall. This stint is expected to benefit Cowan, offering top minutes in all situations against lesser competition, reducing immediate NHL expectations.

Connor Bedard Returns Home to Vancouver, Aims to Extend Point Streak Against Childhood Team

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Connor Bedard is slated to return to his hometown on Wednesday night as the Chicago Blackhawks face the Vancouver Canucks. The young star is currently performing at an NHL career-best level, a stark contrast to his initial games against the team he grew up cheering for. This matchup offers Bedard another significant opportunity for a strong performance, particularly as he looks to extend his current point streak. He is projected to play on a line alongside Ryan Greene and Andre Burakovsky. The Blackhawks, currently 0-2-1 on their road trip, are looking to get back on track, with the puck dropping a little after 9 PM CT.

Artemi Panarin's Slow Start and Unsigned Contract Create Pressure for Rangers Star

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Artemi Panarin is experiencing a slow start to the 2025-26 season for the New York Rangers, recording two goals, seven assists, and nine points through 14 games while averaging 21:08 minutes. This performance, coupled with his unsigned contract status, is a significant concern. Panarin, a pending UFA, admitted playing without a contract is a "roller coaster ride" but stated he's "used to it" and "ready to work hard." NHL insider Pierre LeBrun indicates the Rangers are taking a patient approach to extension talks, wanting to assess the season under new coach Mike Sullivan. Elliotte Friedman reported the Rangers previously sought a team-friendly deal, similar to Anze Kopitar's, which didn't materialize. Despite the pressure, coach Mike Sullivan is not worried, believing Panarin will find his form and encouraging his instinctive offensive play. The longer negotiations drag, the more pressure mounts on the veteran forward.

Ben Kindel Ascends to Penguins' Top Line with Crosby Amidst Rookie Success

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Pittsburgh Penguins' rookie sensation Ben Kindel, 18, is poised for a significant opportunity, practicing on the first line with Sidney Crosby and Bryan Rust and expected to play there against the Washington Capitals on Thursday. This comes after an impressive start to his NHL career, where he earned an opening night roster spot, activated his three-year entry-level contract, and has recorded five goals in 12 games, including two power-play goals on the top unit. Kindel, who has previously played both center and wing, possesses high hockey sense and a strong work ethic, qualities praised by Crosby. Coach Dan Muse noted Kindel's past wing experience and power-play chemistry with Crosby as reasons for the top-six trial, which comes amidst a roster shakeup due to injuries. Kindel expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play with elite talent and is also excited to face Alex Ovechkin.

K'Andre Miller Nears Return to Hurricanes Blueline, Expected to Play Against Wild

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Carolina Hurricanes defenseman K'Andre Miller is nearing his return to the lineup, with coach Rod Brind'Amour hoping he will play Thursday against the Minnesota Wild. Miller, 25, has missed the last six games due to a lower-body injury but has been practicing with the team for two days, taking reps with his usual partner Jalen Chatfield on Wednesday. Before his injury, Miller was off to a strong start, recording two goals, four points, six hits, and eight blocks in six games, while controlling 58.14 CF% and 52.48 xGF%. Brind'Amour lauded Miller's range and skating ability, calling him a 'big piece we've been missing.' Miller noted the team's rookies 'have been doing unbelievable' in his absence, but his return is expected to provide a significant boost to the Hurricanes' defense.

Yaroslav Askarov Confirmed to Start Wednesday's Road Game Against Seattle

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San Jose Sharks goaltender Yaroslav Askarov is officially slated to start on Wednesday, taking the net for the team's upcoming road game against the Seattle Kraken. This confirmation, reported by Max Miller of NHL.com, highlights a key assignment for Askarov as he prepares to face Seattle. The decision to start Askarov for this mid-week matchup provides important insight for both the team's strategy and for fantasy hockey enthusiasts tracking his performance. His presence in goal will be a focal point as the Sharks aim to compete on the road.

Conor Garland Cleared to Return from Undisclosed Injury for Wednesday's Game

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Vancouver Canucks forward Conor Garland is officially set to make his return to the lineup for Wednesday's clash against the Chicago Blackhawks. Garland had been dealing with an undisclosed injury, but his availability for the upcoming game was confirmed by Brendan Batchelor of Sportsnet 650. This update indicates Garland's readiness to rejoin the team, providing a boost to the Canucks' offensive options.