NHL NEWS

NHL Rumor Roundup: Let the Erik Karlsson trade watch begin ... again

John Tavares is off the market. Drew Doughty signed a long-term extension to reference. It feels like the atmosphere is ripe for the Senators to trade Erik Karlsson — finally.

Lyle Richardson

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Ryan O'Reilly trade grades: Blues, Sabres continue roster shake-ups

It took some time, but Buffalo and St. Louis found common ground on a fair return for Ryan O'Reilly, the best center on the NHL's post-John Tavares market, in a trade that should benefit both teams.

Brandon Schlager

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In joint pursuit of Stanley Cup, John Tavares puts Maple Leafs in position to go for it — finally

A lot has changed in 24 months. Toronto has been building a winner, and in luring John Tavares away from the Islanders, they added a major foundational brick. Now, the real fun begins.

Evan Sporer

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Sabres trade Ryan O'Reilly to Blues for Patrik Berglund, trove of picks, top prospect

Just as it seemed the NHL had accepted Buffalo's asking price for its sturdy center as too rich, the Sabres and Blues agreed to a deal late on the opening day of NHL free agency.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL free agency 2018: 'Right opportunity, fit, time' led John Tavares home to Maple Leafs

John Tavares explained Sunday why he decided to sign with his hometown Maple Leafs as a free agent.

Jim Cerny

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NHL free agency 2018: John Tavares admits 'my heart was tearing apart' leaving Islanders

An emotional John Tavares said Sunday that it was no easy decision to leave the Islanders and start anew with the Maple Leafs.

Jim Cerny

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John Tavares watch: NHL's top free-agent prize signs with Maple Leafs

Sporting News is tracking the latest news and rumors as the NHL's biggest free agent in years prepares to make his decision.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL players' emphasis on signing bonuses casts shadow over next labor deal

NHL players are negotiating contracts with heavy signing bonuses as insurance for a potential lockout in the next three to four years.

Evan Sporer

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NHL free agency rumors 2018: Live updates, grades for best, worst July 1 moves

What's it going to be, John Tavares? Will Erik Karlsson finally get traded? Who will hand out the dumbest contract? Sporting News has live analysis on every move as 2018 free agency begins.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL free agents 2018: What to expect from Ilya Kovalchuk in return to the NHL

Ilya Kovalchuk last played an NHL game in 2013. Now 35, what's a reasonable level of production to expect out of the once-dynamic Russian scorer? Looking at recent KHL-to-NHL transitions to find out.

Adam Gretz

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Hurricanes sign No. 2 pick Andrei Svechnikov to entry-level deal

Andrei Svechnikov becomes the first 2018 draft pick to sign an entry-level deal.

Alec Gearty

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'Did this actually happen?': Behind the scenes of June 29, 2016 — the craziest media day in NHL history

On June 29, 2016, 23 minutes changed the landscape of the NHL. The reporters and insiders who worked that day tell the story of one of the most hectic afternoons in hockey history.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Tavares watch in full effect following free agency meetings

John Tavares' Los Angeles free agent summit has concluded, and the entire hockey world is hanging on his free decision.

Lyle Richardson

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NHL free agency 2018: Agent says Rick Nash undecided on future, to sit out July 1 frenzy

Rick Nash's agent said that his client will not solicit free agent offers as he contemplates his future.

Jim Cerny

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Report: Eugene Melnyk declines offer to sell Senators

A report surfaces one day after the team finalizes a $135 million refinancing loan.

Jim Cerny

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NHL Draft big board 2019: Jack Hughes peerless atop way-too-early prospect rankings

American dynamo Jack Hughes is the favorite to go No. 1 overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, but Canadian centers Peyton Krebs, Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook could become worthy challengers.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL free agent rumors: John Tavares to meet with six teams, report says

John Tavares will reportedly enter the NHL's free agent negotiating window and meet with five teams about the possibility of leaving the New York Islanders.

Evan Sporer

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'He doesn't need to be the savior', but expectations high for Sabres' top overall pick Rasmus Dahlin

The 18-year-old Swede is blocking out all the hype and focusing on the next steps to become an important piece of a winning team in Buffalo this fall.

Jim Cerny

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NHL Rumor Roundup: John Tavares holding up free agency market

While the trade market has been slow in the weeks leading up to NHL free agency, teams may be waiting for the John Tavares domino to fall before making any other moves.

Lyle Richardson

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NHL free agency rumors: John Tavares gets bagel-bribe to re-sign with Islanders

John Tavares will hear a number of pitches as to why he should sign with a certain team this week, but one local business owner is attempting to keep him in New York.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Draft grades 2018: Islanders, Red Wings earn full marks; Rangers tank

The 2018 NHL Draft is in the books, so it's time to hand out grades. Sporting News has report cards on every team's haul, from the Islanders down to the rival Rangers.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL trades 2018: Flames, Hurricanes shake things up with five-player swap featuring Hanifin, Hamilton

The Flames and Hurricanes made news on Day 2 of the NHL Draft with a trade featuring defensemen Noah Hanifin and Dougie Hamilton, and forwards Elias Lindholm and Micheal Ferland.

Jim Cerny

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Flames-Hurricanes trade grades: Carolina's new regime makes big splash, lands Dougie Hamilton

The Carolina Hurricanes made a big splash on the second day of the NHL Draft, acquiring both Dougie Hamilton and Adam Fox.

Evan Sporer

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Flames, Hurricanes swap Dougie Hamilton, Elias Lindholm in 5-player draft blockbuster

The Flames and Hurricanes shook up a stagnant NHL Draft floor with their late-round blockbuster Saturday.

Brandon Schlager

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Ilya Kovalchuk agrees to sign with Kings in return to NHL

The former Devils and Thrashers star, now 35 after a stint in Russia, is headed to the West Coast to resume a once-dynamic NHL career in pursuit of a Stanley Cup.

Brandon Schlager

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Introducing Quinn Hughes, the NHL's next hot American defense prospect

Quinn Hughes is next in a line of recent big-name U.S.-born defensemen headed for the NHL, and he has the tools to be the most exciting blueline prospect in years.

Adam Herman

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NHL Draft rumors 2018: Live updates, trade buzz, grades for every deal made in Dallas

Sporting News will keep tabs on the latest trade buzz from the 2018 NHL Draft floor, with full details and grades on every completed deal.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Draft grades 2018: Full results, analysis for every first-round pick

The Red Wings and Islanders were the biggest beneficiaries of a couple slips on Day 1 of the NHL Draft and graded out among the top of the class.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Draft 2018: Buffalo-bound Rasmus Dahlin, family find familiar comforts amid hype

Rasmus Dahlin doesn't want to be called a savior. From a small town in Sweden, the NHL Draft's No. 1 pick's humble beginnings make him a perfect fit in sports-mad Buffalo.

Matt Kalman

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NHL Draft 2018: Capitals win again as trade of Grubauer, Orpik may keep Carlson in D.C.

Capitals GM Brian MacLellan opened up important salary cap space as he swung the only player trade on Day 1 of the NHL Draft.

Jim Cerny

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NHL Draft winners and losers: The best, worst moves from a ho-hum first round

Day 1 of the NHL Draft mostly stuck to the script, to the chagrin of trade watchers intent on chaos. SN breaks down the winners and losers from a first round that lacked a blockbuster.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Draft picks 2018: Complete list of results for Rounds 1-7

A full round-by-round breakdown of all 217 selections made during the 2018 NHL Draft.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Draft order 2018: Complete list of picks for Rounds 1-7

Round-by-round picks and results for the 2018 NHL Draft.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Draft 2018: Big defenseman Mattias Samuelsson follows in father's footsteps

Kjell Samuelsson played 14 seasons in the National Hockey League, and now his son, Mattias, is a highly-rated prospect entering the NHL draft.

Dhiren Mahiban

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NHL Draft 2018: Rasmus Dahlin can change conversation around defensemen taken No. 1 overall

With comparisons to Swedish countrymen Erik Karlsson and Victor Hedman, uber prospect and presumptive 2018 top pick Rasmus Dahlin defies the first overall defenseman stereotype.

Adam Herman

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NHL Draft 2018: Why Andrei Svechnikov's star potential is on par with Rasmus Dahlin

Consensus says the 2018 NHL Draft class includes one elite prospect clearly above everybody else, but the difference between Rasmus Dahlin and Andrei Svechnikov is closer than you think.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Draft rumors: Erik Karlsson's moving day a mystery; Sabres eye another top-five pick for Ryan O'Reilly

The NHL Draft always surprises with an unexpected trade or two from the floor. This year, all eyes are on the Canadiens, Senators and Oilers, who could shake up the top 10 with potential moves.

Lyle Richardson

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NHL Draft big board: Final rankings of top 100 prospects in 2018 class

Rasmus Dahlin and Andrei Svechnikov are all but guaranteed to be taken 1-2 in the 2018 NHL Draft, but there's plenty for other teams in a deep field. Sporting News ranks the top 100 prospects in the class.

Steve Kournianos

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When is the 2018 NHL Draft? Order of picks, date, time & live TV coverage

Here is the 2018 NHL Draft date, time and live TV coverage from the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Kenan Goyette

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NHL Draft 2018: Biggest sleepers, risers and fallers to watch when your team picks

In the NHL, identifying talent in the later rounds can make or break a team's draft. Here are 10 of the biggest sleepers to watch in the 2018 class, plus other risers and fallers.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Mock Draft 2018, final edition: Canadiens weigh trade down; Senators nab Erik Karlsson heir

In a 2018 NHL Draft littered with high-end defensemen, the center-needy Canadiens can change the top 10 outlook completely. Where will the other blueliners fall after Rasmus Dahlin at No. 1?

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Draft 2018: How Rasmus Dahlin can fit Sabres, fast-track league's slowest rebuild

In many respects, Rasmus Dahlin is the most complete defense prospect to come into the NHL in decades. The Swedish sensation should help solve the biggest of Buffalo's many problems.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Draft 2018: For polarizing talent Brady Tkachuk, rewards outweigh risks

Dispelling the myths of Brady Tkachuk, the 2018 NHL Draft's most polarizing prospect who has done more than enough to prove he is an elite power forward with star potential.

Steve Kournianos

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Lou Lamoriello says Islanders 'fortunate' to land new coach Barry Trotz, has 'no idea' on re-signing John Tavares

Lou Lamoriello addressed the two most important storylines surrounding the Islanders on the eve of the 2018 NHL Draft.

Jim Cerny

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Islanders' offseason to-do list: Start with signing John Tavares, hiring a coach

Lou Lamoriello is now in charge of the Islanders, and he's already begun addressing the team's most major issues.

Jim Cerny

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New Islanders coach Barry Trotz fires salvo at Capitals over contract impasse

In a conference call with reporters Thursday, Barry Trotz explained that he resigned as coach of the Capitals because of less than sincere contract negotiations between the two sides.

Jim Cerny

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Senators GM: Mike Hoffman trade necessary because 'dressing room was broken'

Pierre Dorion shed more light on Ottawa's motivation for trading Mike Hoffman, describing a "broken locker room."

Evan Sporer

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Canucks' offseason to-do list: Keep adding young talent, feed the rebuild

The Vancouver Canucks rebuild will ostensibly take its next step this summer, with a high draft pick and lots of young talent waiting in the wings.

Evan Sporer

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Jets' offseason to-do list: Measured approach the best path in Winnipeg

After coming up just short in the Western Conference playoffs, the Winnipeg Jets are in a pretty good situation moving forward.

Evan Sporer

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Rangers' offseason to-do list: Flush with picks, cap room, Blueshirts open for business

Expect this offseason to be as intriguing as any the New York Rangers have had in recent memory.

Jim Cerny

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Did Drake use an NHL reference to hint at Pusha-T dis track on upcoming album?

Drake posted a photo of Tie Domi on Instagram, and it may have a deeper meaning regarding the rapper's beef with Pusha-T.

Jordan Heck

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NHL schedule 2018-19: Capitals to raise banner vs. Bruins; season openers for all 31 teams

NHL fans wanted to see the Capitals and Penguins renew their rivalry to open the 2018-19 regular season. Naturally, that's not going to happen. Here's the first game on every team's schedule, starting in D.C.

Brandon Schlager

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Brian Boyle and his story are what make sports great

Here is Brian Boyle, a beacon of hope and humility, scoring a goal on Hockey Fights Cancer night because of course he did, while maintaining this is about so much more than him, because it is.

Evan Sporer

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NHL trade rumors 2018: Erik Karlsson, Phil Kessel top list of possible players on the move

With rumors running rampant, a few bigger-name options appear to be available this summer via trade as opposed to through NHL free agency.

Jim Cerny

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NHL trade rumors 2018: Blue Jackets 'testing the market' on Artemi Panarin

The high-scoring Blue Jackets winger, a would-be free agent in a star-studded 2019 class, reportedly is reluctant to sign an extension, prompting trade rumors.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL teams showing interest in Slava Voynov despite history of domestic abuse, report says

The former Kings defenseman hasn't played in the NHL since being arrested for domestic assault in October 2014.

John Arlia

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Senators' 'rock bottom' reaches new depths amid disturbing legal matters

The systemic dysfunction in Ottawa is more dire than ever with serious harassment allegations involving employees and their families, something the Senators and the NHL desperately need to resolve.

Evan Sporer

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NHL trades 2018: Patient Dale Tallon lands Mike Hoffman for Panthers, says he'll 'fit in nicely'

The Florida Panthers thought they were out of the running for Mike Hoffman until a late-night phone call with the San Jose Sharks changed their thinking.

Jim Cerny

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Mike Hoffman trade grades: Senators wash hands; Sharks positioned for free-agent splash

The Senators traded Mike Hoffman, a forced move under less-than-ideal circumstances. GM Pierre Dorion was never going to receive fair value in return, and that proved true.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Oilers have interest in Erik Karlsson trade (join the club)

The Oilers reportedly have contacted the Senators to discuss a trade for Erik Karlsson, plus all eyes on Max Pacioretty in Montreal and the latest on Jeff Skinner and Ilya Kovalchuk.

Lyle Richardson

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Barry Trotz's best fits: If not Islanders, NHL coaching carousel could get wild

After resigning from the Stanley Cup champion Capitals, Barry Trotz becomes the biggest free-agent coach since Mike Babcock. His next move could alter the NHL landscape.

Brandon Schlager

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Ottawa Senators timeline of dysfunction in 2017-18

It's been a long, miserable year for hockey fans in Ottawa.

Brandon Schlager

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Islanders' five best coaching candidates to replace Doug Weight

The Islanders are searching for a new head coach after relieving Doug Weight of his duties and team GM Lou Lamoriello has no shortage of quality candidates to consider.

Jim Cerny

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Whether with Leafs or Marlies, Colin Greening remains true professional

Colin Greening has become a willing veteran mentor to Maple Leafs kids, even if it costs him spot in the NHL.

Dave McCarthy

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'No words' as Capitals' Nathan Walker becomes first Australian Stanley Cup champion

In a season of firsts, Nathan Walker is the first Australian to play for a Stanley Cup champion.

Sammi Silber

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It sure sounds like the Arizona Coyotes will try Alex Galchenyuk at center

After the Montreal Canadiens struggled to decide if Alex Galchenyuk could play center, the Arizona Coyotes are already talking about giving him a look there.

Evan Sporer

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Alex Galchenyuk-Max Domi trade grades: Canadiens cut bait — for better or worse

Marc Bergevin finally washed his hands of the Alex Galchenyuk experiment in Montreal, adding Max Domi in another early-summer blockbuster. The Coyotes came out looking like early winners.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Blackhawks thinking outside the box (and salary cap) in free agency

Having missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade, the once-dominant Blackhawks could be poised to make a major move this summer.

Lyle Richardson

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Mike Hoffman, Monika Caryk attempt to clear air over harassment allegations

Mike Hoffman and Monika Caryk have come out and denied harassment allegations made by Monika Karlsson, and have asked to work with the Karlsson family to find who is behind these comments.

Evan Sporer

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NHL free agency 2018: Can Capitals keep John Carlson in D.C.? It's complicated

Fresh off a career-defining season and Stanley Cup run, John Carlson says he wants to find a way to stay with the Capitals. The feeling is mutual. Except business beckons, and it's not that simple.

Sammi Silber

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Wife of Erik Karlsson seeks protection order from Mike Hoffman's fiancee over harassment claim

Melinda Karlsson has filed for an order of protection against Monika Caryk, the longtime partner of Mike Hoffman, over a series of harassing social media posts.

Evan Sporer

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'It's basically nuts!': Capitals celebrate with 100,000 fans at Stanley Cup parade

Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals got to celebrate with the fans of Washington, D.C., Tuesday, capping several days of post-Stanley Cup festivities.

Sammi Silber

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Unloading Milan Lucic won't come easy for Oilers

Milan Lucic, owed $6 million per year until 2023, has quickly fallen out of favor in the Oilers' plans for the future. Finding another taker will prove costly, and it's much easier said than done.

Lyle Richardson

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Party on, Capitals: The best moments from D.C.'s raucous Stanley Cup parade

The Washington Capitals took to the streets to celebrate their 2018 Stanley Cup win and didn't disappoint.

Sporting News

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Ilya Kovalchuk meets with Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks next, per report

At 35 years old, Ilya Kovalchuk is set to return to the NHL, and has reportedly begun meeting with teams face-to-face to begin to discuss a potential fit.

Evan Sporer

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Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Coyotes reach ‘verbal agreement’ on contract, report says

The Coyotes are telling teams that Oliver Ekman-Larsson is off the market.

Alec Gearty

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Predators GM Poile pens classy letter to former coach Trotz on Stanley Cup win with Capitals

"The hockey gods got it right" David Poile says about Barry Trotz finally hoisting the Stanley Cup.

Jim Cerny

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Alex Ovechkin, Stanley Cup champion Capitals chug beer during interview at Nationals game

The Washington Capitals Stanley Cup celebration is hitting the ground running, and made its way to Nationals Park on Saturday.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Draft prospect rankings: Rasmus Dahlin or Andrei Svechnikov? It's 1A vs. 1B atop 2018 class

Rasmus Dahlin is all but guaranteed to be taken No. 1 overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, but there's at least one other player with similar superstar upside. Sporting News ranks the top 62 prospects in the class.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Sabres weighing pros, cons of trading Ryan O'Reilly

After another dead-last finish, the Sabres are considering wholesale changes to their core. Ryan O'Reilly is front and center in the rumor mill, coveted around the league but still valuable to Buffalo's rebuild.

Lyle Richardson

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Marc-Andre Fleury hopes to finish career with Golden Knights: 'I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else'

Marc-Andre Fleury made it clear where he wants to finish out his days in the NHL.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Alex Ovechkin has his moment, but was and will always be Great

Alex Ovechkin is a Stanley Cup champion, and that very fact will reshape how people remember the superstar. But the reality is Ovechkin was always great, with or without this achivement.

Evan Sporer

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For D.C. fans and Capitals' long-suffering faithful, the agony is finally over

Of all the demons haunting Washington sports fans in their title drought, none was more haunting than those following the Capitals. It made the redemption for the Caps and Alex Ovechkin even sweeter.

David Steele

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Capitals hit the Vegas Strip: Inside the Stanley Cup afterparty

Winning a Stanley Cup in Las Vegas has its perks, with the city's many temptations awaiting around every corner. Here's how the Capitals celebrated their first-ever championship.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: After miraculous run, Golden Knights face even more interesting offseason

The Vegas Golden Knights nearly completed an unthinkable championship run, and now faces a number of difficult decisions in their first offseason.

Evan Sporer

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Alex Ovechkin's career-defining moments, quotes and highlights

"The Great Eight" has won the Stanley Cup for the first time. Sporting News looks back on some of the highs and lows of his career, chronicled through the years.

Sporting News

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals defeat Golden Knights for first NHL title

The Washington Capitals defeat the Vegas Golden Knights to capture their first Stanley Cup. Sporting News provided updates throughout the clinching Game 5.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Chandler Stephenson to bring Stanley Cup to Humboldt

Chandler Stephenson wants to honor the residents of Humboldt, Saskatchewan, by celebrating his Stanley Cup victory with them.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: D.C. fans celebrate end of championship drought

Washington made sure to celebrate after the city's first championship in 26 years.

Gabe Fernandez

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Caps' T.J. Oshie emotional about ailing dad in postgame interviews

Washington forward T.J. Oshie says his father, whose memory is fading because of Alzheimer's disease, will always remember his son winning the Stanley Cup.

Tom Gatto

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Alex Ovechkin hands Stanley Cup to Nicklas Backstrom

Alex Ovechkin didn't think twice about who to hand the Stanley Cup to after his own lap with the trophy.

Alec Gearty

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Pictures on ice: How the skate cam became an essential part of the Stanley Cup Final

A little bit of luck and a lot of hard work led to Zac Laszuk becoming CBC's on-ice camera operator during the broadcaster's Stanley Cup playoffs coverage.

Dhiren Mahiban

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NHL playoffs 2018: Stanley Cup Final schedule, TV info for Golden Knights vs. Capitals

Everything you need to know about the duel for Lord Stanley's Cup.

Gabe Fernandez

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All capsized: A not-so-brief history of Capitals playoff collapses

No team in the history of the NHL (and really, all professional sports) has proven so proficient at blowing leads in the playoffs as the Capitals. It's become a sick time-honored tradition.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Golden Knights' luck finally running out against Capitals

The Golden Knights' storybook season has, perhaps for the first time, hit an unlucky spell, with Vegas now facing elimination in the Stanley Cup Final.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Golden Knights vs. Capitals TV schedule, game times, how to watch live

Full NHL playoff schedule and results leading up to the 2018 Stanley Cup Final.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals carrying hopes of championship-starved Washington, D.C.

The Capitals have put their fans through agony, but that's no different than the fans of every other D.C. team since the 1991 Super Bowl. Now the Caps are a win away from ending the drought.

David Steele

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Don Cherry doesn't like Capitals 'bird man' Evgeny Kuznetsov

Evgeny Kuznetsov has gone viral for his 'bird dance,' but the celebration has draw the ire of Canadian broadcaster Don Cherry.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Devante Smith-Pelly has 'mind made up' on possible White House visit

Washington forward Devante Smith-Pelly indicated he would not go to the White House if the Capitals win the Stanley Cup and are later invited.

Evan Sporer

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Lou Lamoriello seeks 'culture change' as Islanders move on from Garth Snow, Doug Weight

Two weeks after becoming the Islanders' president of hockey operations, Lou Lamoriello relieved Garth Snow and Doug Weight of their duties.

Jim Cerny

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Golden ticket? As Knights near Stanley Cup, fans hope for big-time Vegas payout

There are hundreds — possibly thousands — of Golden Knights betting tickets placed months ago on a hunch or out of sentiment now worth life-altering payouts if the expansion team completes its odds-defying championship run.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL Draft 2018: Andrei Svechnikov taking cues from Capitals countrymen Ovechkin, Kuznetsov

Andrei Svechnikov is at the Stanley Cup Final with the rest of the NHL's top draft-eligible prospects, and was able to chat with fellow Russians and role models Evgeny Kuznetsov and Alex Ovechkin.

Evan Sporer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Stanley Cup Final TV schedule, game times, how to watch live

Full NHL playoff schedule and results on the road to the 2018 Stanley Cup Final.

Brandon Schlager

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Tom Wilson, Sergio Ramos show if you're not breaking rules, you're not doing it right

The Capitals' tough guy and Real Madrid's rough-and-tumble captain make no apologies for play that looks dirty to observers. Wilson is about to raise the Stanley Cup and Ramos hoisted the Champions League trophy.

Mike DeCourcy

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Las Vegas tables 'premature' parade plans for Golden Knights

Barring an epic comeback in the Stanley Cup Final, the shiny silver trophy won't be headed to the Sin City. That won't stop them from celebrating the Golden Knights' historic season, though.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Brayden McNabb blindsides T.J. Oshie during Game 4 garbage time

The Golden Knights' Brayden McNabb may hear from the NHL's Department of Player Safety after he drilled T.J. Oshie from behind toward the end of a Game 4 blowout loss to the Capitals.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Kuznetsov records four assists as Capitals take 3-1 series lead over Golden Knights

The Washington Capitals defeat the Vegas Golden Knights to become one game away from hockey's ultimate prize. Sporting News provided updates throughout Game 4.

Alec Gearty

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Long before Kyle Dubas, the Maple Leafs had another young GM, Gord Stellick

In an exclusive interview with Sporting News, Gord Stellick recalls his tenure as the 30-year-old general manager of the Maple Leafs, and offers some advice to the new 31-year-old Toronto GM, Kyle Dubas.

Dhiren Mahiban

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What're the odds? Golden Knights among biggest betting long shots in sports history

The NHL's expansion Vegas Golden Knights would complete one the most improbable feats in sports history if they capture the Stanley Cup. Here are other famous long shots who defied the odds.

Gabe Fernandez

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NHL Mixed Bag: Doubting the Golden Knights? We should know better by now

The Golden Knights have their hands full with the Capitals in the Stanley Cup Final, but if their inaugural season taught us anything, it's downright foolish to count Vegas out. Here's how they can climb back into the series.

Rob Mixer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: How Capitals' defense keeps adapting, frustrating NHL's fastest teams

After being defensively out of sync for the first three quarters of the regular season, the Capitals all got on the same page. That continuity is now leading them closer to a Stanley Cup.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Brooks Orpik 'fine' following James Neal's hit in Game 3

Brooks Orpik was delivered a hard hit courtesy of James Neal on Saturday night. But questions arose about Orpik's safety when he wasn't immediately evaluated for a concussion.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Inside Mamma Lucia's, the restaurant that fuels Alex Ovechkin, Capitals

For every Capitals home game, Mamma Lucia's Italian restaurant provides a pregame meal for Alex Ovechkin. Prior to Game 3, the restaurant raised the stakes on what it was delivering.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Evgeny Kuznetsov's 'Jordan Game' boosts Capitals in Game 3 win

Evgeny Kuznetsov's status for Game 3 was uncertain. Not only did he play; he played a monumental role in the Capitals' win to take a 2-1 series lead over the Golden Knights.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Alex Ovechkin, nearing mission accomplished, gets 'poetic justice' in Game 3

Alex Ovechkin has waited 13 long years for his Stanley Cup moment, so he wasn't going to let Game 3 in Washington, D.C., pass him by.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Alex Ovechkin helps Capitals take Game 3, series lead over Golden Knights

Alex Ovechkin scored to help the Capitals claim a 3-1 win and 2-1 series lead in the Stanley Cup Final. Sporting News provided live updates from Washington's Game 3 victory.

John Arlia

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Caps counter Golden Knights' pregame show with . . . Pat Sajak

The "Wheel of Fortune" host introduces the starting lineups before Game 3 in Washington. That's not quite the same as on-ice sword fights and drum lines, eh?

Tom Gatto

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Alex Ovechkin gets his championship moment in D.C., at long last

After 13 years of waiting, the Capitals' Alex Ovechkin will finally get to play a Stanley Cup Final game on his home ice in Washington.

Evan Sporer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: On Braden Holtby, 'The Save,' and prayers answered in Game 2

Washington goaltender Braden Holtby's sprawling, miracle save late in the third period helped send the series back to D.C. tied 1-1. It also represented a possible makeup call by the hockey gods.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: On wrong side of 'The Save,' Golden Knights' Alex Tuch keeps a short memory

Alex Tuch was on the wrong end of Braden Holtby's miraculous save in Game 2, but the Golden Knights forward is moving on, a concept he's grown familiar with.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Penguins facing another Phil Kessel trade conundrum

Phil Kessel's purportedly sour relationship with coach Mike Sullivan has birthed speculation the Penguins may look to move the star winger this summer. Is that their best course of action?

Lyle Richardson

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Lightning's Ryan Callahan out for five months following shoulder surgery

Ryan Callahan will miss the next five months following shoulder surgery, but his injury could put Tampa Bay in a tough position during the offseason.

Alec Gearty

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NHL Mixed Bag: In appreciation of Las Vegas, the hockey market we never knew we needed

Las Vegas has thrown a party for the NHL the only way it knows how through Games 1 and 2 of the Stanley Cup Final, and the fun is only getting started.

Rob Mixer

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Twitter reacts to Braden Holtby's 'save of the century'

Braden Holtby's remarkable stick save in the final two minutes of Game 2 sent NHL Twitter into a frenzy.

John Arlia

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Eller, Holtby help Capitals earn gritty Game 2 win over Golden Knights

The Washington Capitals evened up the Stanley Cup Final at a game apiece with a 3-2 victory over the Golden Knights. Sporting News provided live updates from Game 2.

John Arlia

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Braden Holtby makes ridiculous save to preserve Game 2 win

Braden Holtby makes a miraculous stick save to preserve the Capitals' 3-2 victory over the Golden Knights.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Brooks Orpik scores first goal in 220 games

Brooks Orpik scored his first goal since February 2016, and it came in a big moment.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Evgeny Kuznetsov leaves game with upper-body injury

The Capitals' Evgeny Kuznetsov left the first period of Game 2 with an apparent injury.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Golden Knights' Fleury shows off puck-handling, shot ahead of Game 2

Marc-Andre Fleury shed his goalie gear and showed off some of his puck skills during Golden Knights morning skate ahead of Game 2.

Alec Gearty

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Ilya Kovalchuk's agent 'in discussions' with NHL teams, report says

Ilya Kovalchuk is set to return to the NHL after playing the last five seasons in Russia.

John Arlia

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: A history of Lil Jon's NHL fandom

Lil Jon isn't just a bandwagon hockey fan, and the rapper has a long history of supporting the NHL.

Evan Sporer

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Johan Franzen's wife details his post-concussion struggles

Johan Franzen, who hasn't played in an NHL game in nearly three years, is still struggling with the affects of post-concussion syndrome, according to his wife, who detailed it all in a blog post.

Evan Sporer

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Golden Knights' epic intro for first Stanley Cup Final game

The Golden Knights' opening show ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Washington Capitals was incredible.

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Tom Wilson spoils Game 1 party with another scrutinized hit

The controversial Capitals forward underscored an unbelievable Stanley Cup Final opener Monday with his latest questionable act, drawing the ire of fed-up fans once again.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Fourth line lifts Golden Knights to Game 1 win over Capitals

The Vegas Golden Knights outscored the Washington Capitals 3-1 in the third period to take a 1-0 series lead in the Stanley Cup Final.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Capitals' Barry Trotz thought penalty should've been called on Ryan Reaves' goal

Barry Trotz wasn't a fan of Ryan Reaves' goal in the third period, which turned out to be one of the game's deciding goals.

Alec Gearty

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: Bryce Harper 'happy' for Capitals, but rooting for hometown Golden Knights

Washington Nationals star Bryce Harper is sticking with his hometown team in the Stanley Cup Final.

John Arlia

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Conn Smythe power rankings: It's Marc-Andre Fleury's MVP award to lose

Marc-Andre Fleury is leading the most unlikely playoff run in NHL history and might win playoff MVP even if Vegas loses the Stanley Cup. Here’s who can take it away from him.

Brandon Schlager

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Golden Knights vs. Capitals: Predictions, odds, schedule for 2018 Stanley Cup Final

Everything to know about the Vegas Golden Knights and Washington Capitals before they meet in the 2018 Stanley Cup Final.

Brandon Schlager

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Stanley Cup Final 2018: George McPhee's fingerprints all over Capitals, Golden Knights

The NHL has marveled over George McPhee's work building a Stanley Cup finalist from scratch. But the Golden Knights general manager also helped procure a majority of the opposing Capitals' roster.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Alex Ovechkin, Capitals 'to play hockey, not to pool party and play in casino' in Vegas

Alex Ovechkin returns to Las Vegas for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, and only has one thing on his mind.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Braden Holtby putting up sterling numbers (again) in a Capitals postseason run

Braden Holtby has long been one of the top Stanley Cup playoff performers at his position.

Evan Sporer

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Lou Lamoriello hire looms large in John Tavares' future with Islanders

The biggest question surrounding Lou Lamoriello's hiring as new Islanders hockey czar is what effect he'll have on their efforts to re-sign pending free-agent captain John Tavares.

Lyle Richardson

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Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom has a very swollen finger

The Washington Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom has clearly been playing through an injury since returning to the lineup, and gave a glimpse into it on Friday.

Evan Sporer

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Steven Stamkos takes blame for Lightning's loss to Capitals: 'You feel like you let your teammates down'

The Tampa Bay Lightning went scoreless in the final two games of the Eastern Conference Final. Steven Stamkos says offensive leaders are at fault.

Alec Gearty

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David Quinn checked all the boxes to become Rangers head coach

The New York Rangers named David Quinn their new head coach, choosing a candidate they said will fill a number of needs for where the franchise is currently at.

Evan Sporer

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National anthem policies by sport: NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB and NHL

America's professional sports leagues vary in their guidelines for conduct and behavior during the playing of the national anthem.

Sporting News

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In Marc-Andre Fleury vs. Matt Murray debate, Vegas' success doesn't mean Penguins were wrong

With the benefit of hindsight, it's convenient to argue the Penguins should’ve kept beloved goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, now starring in another Stanley Cup run for the expansion Golden Knights. But it's still not a debate worth having.

Mike DeCourcy

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Alex Ovechkin overcome with emotion of first Stanley Cup Final trip: 'It's unbelievable'

In his 13th NHL season, Alex Ovechkin is finally going to the Stanley Cup Final. He was so emotional following Wednesday's Game 7 victory he could hardly speak.

John Arlia

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NHL playoffs 2018: Alex Ovechkin, Capitals join Golden Knights in unlikely Stanley Cup Final

For the first time since 2007, the NHL is guaranteed a new Stanley Cup champion. The Capitals finally broke their curse with a win in Wednesday's Game 7 and join the expansion Golden Knights in this year's Final.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Hockey's cruel nature claimed Predators, Jets; who's next?

To win the Stanley Cup, you need not only to be good, but circumstantially good. Sometimes, anything less than that isn't enough.

Evan Sporer

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Does the NHL have a national anthem policy? Not specifically

An NHL player who decides to protest during the the U.S. national anthem would not be in violation of existing rules.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Today's score, schedule, live updates

Live updates, scores and schedule for today's NHL playoff games.

Sporting News

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NHL preparing puck-tracking technology to further develop live data

The NHL is hoping to implement player- and puck-tracking systems for the start of the 2019-20 season.

John Arlia

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Lamoriello accepts Islanders' 'challenge', offers no insight on futures of Tavares, Snow, Weight

The Islanders officially introduced Lou Lamoriello as the club's new President of Hockey Operations Tuesday.

Jim Cerny

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NHL playoffs 2018: A 'different' Capitals team faces another familiar demon — Game 7

The Capitals are acutely aware of their Game 7 shortcomings. After staving off another series collapse in Game 6, now is their chance to shed the choker label and reach the Stanley Cup Final all at once.

Ted Starkey

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Maple Leafs, Mark Hunter mutually part ways, leaving Kyle Dubas to build new regime

Just 24 hours after it was reported Lou Lamoriello is leaving the the Maple Leafs, Toronto announced it has mutually parted ways with former assistant general manager Mark Hunter.

Evan Sporer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals' Braden Holtby makes 24 saves, records first shutout of season in Game 6 win

Braden Holtby faced criticism throughout the regular season but with the Capitals facing elimination, Holtby was there to force Game 7.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Oshie helps Capitals stave off elimination, force Game 7 against Lightning

TJ Oshie scored twice as the Washington Capitals staved off elimination with a 3-0 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Sporting News provided live updates from Game 6.

John Arlia

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NHL Mixed Bag: Confessions of a Golden Knights non-believer

The Golden Knights are authoring one of the weirdest, most exciting and surprising sports stories of our lifetimes. Everyone was wrong about them. Dead wrong.

Rob Mixer

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NHL Mock Draft 2018: Sabres hit jackpot with Rasmus Dahlin; lottery prizes aplenty after No. 1

With the lottery picks in place, defensemen dominate the top 10 in Sporting News' second NHL mock draft for 2018, led by presumptive No. 1 choice Rasmus Dahlin.

Steve Kournianos

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NHL playoffs 2018: Winnipeg native Ryan Reaves embraces jeers, stuns doubters as Golden Knights down Jets

In his hometown, Ryan Reaves sent the Vegas Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Final.

Alec Gearty

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Stunned hockey world reacts to Golden Knights reaching Stanley Cup Final

The expansion Vegas Golden Knights have reached the Stanley Cup Final, continuing to exceed expectations — and defy all logic. Social media reacted accordingly.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Golden Knights eliminate Jets, advance to Stanley Cup Final

The expansion Vegas Golden Knights beat the Winnipeg Jets 2-1 in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, advancing to the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season.

Jim Cerny

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NHL playoffs 2018: Lightning strike early in Game 5, take 3-2 series lead over Capitals

Ryan Callahan had a goal and an assist in the Lightning's Game 5 win over the Capitals.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Alex Ovechkin tried to single-handedly tie Game 5 in final minutes

Alex Ovechkin nearly dragged the Capitals back into Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals, but ultimately could not overcome the Lightning.

Evan Sporer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Lightning's Cedric Paquette scores 19 seconds into Game 5

Cedric Paquette got the Lightning on the board 19 seconds into Game 5, the second-fastest goal to open a playoff game in franchise history.

John Arlia

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NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals fighting own playoff history after series lead vanishes

The Capitals arrived home with a 2-0 series lead; they depart with the baggage of past coughed-up playoff series. They played just well enough in Game 4 to lose a frustrating nailbiter.

David Steele

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NHL playoffs 2018: Familiar feeling creeps in for Capitals after Game 4 loss to Lightning

Nicklas Backstrom's return wasn't enough to help the Capitals keep their edge in the Eastern Conference finals. The Lightning tied the series with a 4-2 win in Thursday's Game 4.

Brandon Schlager

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Golden Knights' top line pushes Winnipeg to brink of elimination

Winnipeg trails for the first time of the 2018 playoffs. The Jets hope to leave Las Vegas with the series tied up at 2, but the Vegas Golden Knights have other plans. Sporting News will provide updates of Game 4.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets' Tyler Myers, Paul Maurice critical of officiating in loss to Golden Knights

Winnipeg defenseman Tyler Myers and coach Paul Maurice were frustrated with what was and wasn't called during Game 4 in Las Vegas.

Alec Gearty

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NHL Rumor Roundup: How much different will the Penguins look in 2018-19?

Big names like Phil Kessel and Kris Letang have been floated in trade speculation after the Penguins' three-peat fell short. More likely, Jim Rutherford's roster tweaks will be smaller.

Lyle Richardson

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Could legalized sports gambling bring an end to NHL's injury secrecy?

The Supreme Court voted down national legislature on sports gambling, and the ripple effect could impact how the NHL chooses to disclose injury information.

Evan Sporer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Nicklas Backstrom's return biggest Game 4 question facing Capitals, Lightning

The Lightning woke up from their two-game slumber against the Capitals and looked more like the team favored in the East finals. That could change when, or if, Nicklas Backstrom returns

David Steele

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Conn Smythe power rankings: Top 10 candidates for NHL's playoff MVP so far

Who's the favorite to be named this year's Stanley Cup playoff MVP? Sporting News ranks the top 10 candidates through the conference finals.

Brandon Schlager

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Marchessault scores twice, Golden Knights win second straight game to take series lead

Marc-Andre Fleury leads on the defensive side, James Neal and Jonathan Marchessault on offense; the Golden Knights' stars step up in a huge way as Vegas wins in Game 3.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Marc-Andre Fleury enjoys playoff reputation revival for Golden Knights

Marc-Andre Fleury has overcome a checkered past in the Stanley Cup playoffs to lead the Golden Knights into the Western Conference finals, and he's doing it at historic levels.

Andrew Hirsh

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Winnipeg junior football president resigns over racially insensitive post about P.K. Subban

A junior football team president in Winnipeg resigned after a writing a racially insensitive Facebook post about the Predators' P.K. Subban.

Evan Sporer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Tom Wilson calls out double standard on 'dangerous' hit from Anton Stralman

Tom Wilson takes issue with Anton Stralman's hit during the first period of Game 3.

Alec Gearty

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With Andrei Vasilevskiy stopping fall, Lightning begin climb back into East finals vs. Caps

Tampa Bay was in a 2-0 hole as the series moved to Washington. Another loss would have all but finished the Bolts. Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, with a little help from his teammates, didn't let it happen.

David Steele

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D.C. Metro to stay open late for Game 4 of Capitals vs. Lightning thanks to Qatar

The tiny, wealthy nation of Qatar wants to help Capitals fans avoid a postgame D.C. Metro nightmare.

Gabe Fernandez

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Vasilevskiy makes 36 saves, Lightning jump back into series with Game 3 win over Capitals

Andrei Vasilevskiy stops 36 of 38 shots. Kucherov, Stamkos and Hedman combine for 7 points in Lightning's Game 3 win over the Washington Capitals.

Alec Gearty

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NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals' incessant ability to fill holes has Lightning in deep for Game 3

The Capitals are at home, with a 2-0 lead over the Lightning, and are surviving and thriving without Nicklas Backstrom. The omens are in their favor, so far.

David Steele

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America's bet against sports gambling was always a big loser

SN's Mike DeCourcy explains why the federal ban on sports betting being ruled unconstitutional is a welcome end to what was a senseless prohibition in the U.S. for years.

Mike DeCourcy

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NHL playoffs 2018: Marchessault helps Golden Knights flip script, take Game 2 over Jets

Jonathan Marchessault scored twice to help the Vegas Golden Knights take home-ice advantage with a 3-1 win in Game 2 over the Winnipeg Jets.

John Arlia

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NHL playoffs 2018: Tomas Tatar makes most of opportunity in Golden Knights' Game 2 win

Tomas Tatar made his first appearance since May 2 in Game 2 and scored a goal in the Golden Knights' 3-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets.

John Arlia

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NHL Mixed Bag: Are the Capitals (finally) closers? Stay tuned to find out

Either something has gone horribly wrong for the Lightning or the Capitals have suddenly found the extra gear they’d been searching for the last 20 years.

Rob Mixer

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NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals continue road success, dominate Lightning in Game 2

The Capitals improved to 7-1 on the road this postseason with a 6-2 victory over the Lightning in Game 2 Sunday in Tampa.

John Arlia

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets find formula to solve Marc-Andre Fleury, Vegas in Game 1 win

The Jets jumped on Marc-Andre Fleury with three goals on the first five shots of Game 1 and snuffed out the Golden Knights' high-flying attack late to take Game 1 with ease.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets' challenge stirs up goalie interference debate in Game 1

Joel Armia's first-period goal was allowed to count after video review deemed the Jets forward did not interfere with Vegas goalie Marc-Andre Fleury.

John Arlia

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Should Sharks keep Joe Thornton, Evander Kane or both?

With about $20 million in expected cap space, the Sharks' lineup in 2018-19 could look much different, depending on if GM Doug Wilson can reel in a certain big-fish free agent.

Lyle Richardson

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Jets vs. Golden Knights: Predictions, odds, schedule for Western Conference finals

Everything to know about the Winnipeg Jets and Vegas Golden Knights as they meet in the Western Conference finals for a chance to play for the Stanley Cup.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Capitals claim Game 1 from slow-starting Lightning

Call it beginner's luck, but Alex Ovechkin had a goal and an assist to help the Capitals win their first conference finals game since 1998, a 4-2 decision over the Lightning.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Nikita Kucherov's waved-off goal starts twisted turn of events in Game 1

A too many men on the ice penalty took away a brilliant Nikita Kucherov goal that would have tied Game 1. What happened next was even more painful.

Brandon Schlager

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Maple Leafs announce Kyle Dubas as new general manager

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced Kyle Dubas as the team's new general manager on Friday.

Evan Sporer

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Lightning vs. Capitals: Predictions, odds, schedule for Eastern Conference finals

Everything to know about the Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals as they meet in the Eastern Conference finals for a chance to play for the Stanley Cup.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets crush Predators in Game 7 on way to first-ever West finals

The Jets eliminated the Presidents' Trophy-winning Predators in decisive fashion with a 5-1 win in Thursday's Game 7. Winnipeg advanced to the conference finals for the first time in franchise history.

Brandon Schlager

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets' Scheifele sets record with seven road goals in single series

Mark Scheifele scored twice in Game 7 to help the Winnipeg Jets into the Western Conference finals.

John Arlia

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NHL playoffs 2018: Jets, Predators couldn't get any closer entering Game 7

One of the most entertaining series of the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs will conclude on Thursday, when the Jets and Predators play Game 7 at Bridgestone Arena.

Evan Sporer

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Bruins' Brad Marchand promises to stop licking opponents: 'I've got to cut that s— out'

After the Bruins' season ended in a thud of disappointment, some blamed Brad Marchand's playoff behavior as an untimely distraction. He agrees he took it too far.

Brandon Schlager

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