The Winnipeg Jets are looking to prove the doubters wrong in the first round against the Colorado...

<p>The Winnipeg Jets are looking to prove the doubters wrong in the first round against the Colorado Avalanche.</p><p>"There's been some talk, obviously, that maybe we aren't where we're supposed to be, and we know that we are," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3995" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3995">Nikolaj Ehlers</a> <a href="https://www.nhl.com/jets/video/ehlers-24-04-21-6351366195112">said</a> Sunday. "So we wanna show ourselves and prove to each and every guy in here that we got what it takes to be a Stanley Cup champion."</p><p>Ehlers confirmed the team is using a comment from the "Spittin' Chiclets" podcast as bulletin board material entering Round 1, according to <a href="https://x.com/JohnLuTSNWpg/status/1782064176363434327">TSN's John Lu</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I had a player in the NHL on a team currently sitting in a playoff spot tell me that the Winnipeg Jets are the biggest frauds in the league and that they'll lose in the first round," podcast host and former NHLer Ryan Whitney <a href="https://twitter.com/spittinchiclets/status/1763964043767714128">said</a> on the March 1 edition of the show.</p><p>Meanwhile, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6593" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/6593">Mason Appleton</a> reiterated his team's self-belief.</p><p>"This is the hungriest I've seen this group," Appleton said, per the <a href="https://x.com/mikemcintyrewpg/status/1782068777896517858">Winnipeg Free Press' Mike McIntyre</a>. "We really have a lot of belief in this room and in this team."</p><p>That belief goes all the way to head coach Rick Bowness, who noted he likes this iteration of his team more than last year's entering the postseason.</p><p>"This team is far better prepared going into the playoffs today this year than we were last year," Bowness said, according to <a href="https://x.com/WPGMurat/status/1782075918271283487">The Athletic's Murat Ates</a>. "As I mentioned, we were scrambling to get in, and it just felt like that scramble carried through, through the playoffs."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/WPGMurat/status/1782075919617708102">added</a>: "So again, I think it's a more confident group. It's a deeper group, it's a tighter group, and we'll see that come into play. And I just feel going into these playoffs that we're much better prepared."</p><p>The Jets face the Avalanche in Game 1 on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET.</p><p> </p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - APRIL 04: Mark Scheifele #55, Gabriel Vilardi #13, Nikolaj Ehlers #27, and Josh Morrissey #44 of the Winnipeg Jets celebrate third period goal against the Calgary Flames at Canada Life Centre on April 04, 2024 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Jets using 'frauds' comment as bulletin board material

A record crowd of 21,105 watched PWHL Toronto beat Montreal 3-2 in overtime at Bell Centre, home ...

<p>A record crowd of 21,105 watched PWHL Toronto beat Montreal 3-2 in overtime at Bell Centre, home of the Montreal Canadiens, on Saturday.</p><p>Toronto star forward Sarah Nurse netted the game-winner just 13 seconds into the extra frame as the team became the first in the PWHL to clinch a playoff spot.</p><p>The two teams set the previous women's hockey attendance record Feb. 16 at the Toronto Maple Leafs' Scotiabank Arena, where 19,285 fans saw Toronto beat Montreal 3-0 in the "Battle on Bay Street."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bell Centre hosted Canadian Women's Hockey League games in 2016 and 2017. The crowd for the 2016 contest was 5,938, which stood as the North American regular-season professional record for women's hockey until the PWHL commenced in January.</p><p>"In 2017 when we played here, it was surreal," Montreal captain Marie-Philip Poulin <a href="https://www.thepwhl.com/en/professional-womens-hockey-league-pwhl-pregame-primer-toronto-at-montreal">said</a> before Saturday's game. "It was a dream that happened, and you jump out on that ice, you look up and see empty seats. But you hope that one day it will be packed.</p><p>"Being able to be in that historic moment here at the Bell Centre is going to be unbelievable. In terms of women's hockey being able to fill that ice is going to be surreal."</p><p>Multiple attendance records have fallen in the inaugural PWHL season. Ottawa and Minnesota broke marks for professional women's teams in the first week of the season before Toronto set the overall record in February.</p><p>Before the PWHL campaign, the record crowd for a women's hockey game was 18,013 at the 2013 World Championship in Ottawa.</p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - APRIL 20: A new world attendance record is set for women’s hockey at 21,105 people during the third period in the PWHL game between Montreal and Toronto at the Bell Centre on April 20, 2024 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

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PWHL breaks women's hockey attendance record again

Colorado Avalanche forward Jonathan Drouin will miss the entire first-round series against the Wi...

<p>Colorado Avalanche forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3008" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3008">Jonathan Drouin</a> will miss the entire first-round series against the Winnipeg Jets with a lower-body injury, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Drouin scored 19 goals and a career-high 56 points in 79 games this season as he rekindled chemistry with junior teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a>.</p><p>The 29-year-old left Colorado's regular-season finale Thursday and didn't return. The Avalanche were already locked into a matchup against the Jets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s what’s knocked out Jonathan Drouin. Didn’t look too bad, but guess we’ll see. Hope it’s just precautionary <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoAvsGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoAvsGo</a> <a href="https://t.co/oYJ0LAtvZp">pic.twitter.com/oYJ0LAtvZp</a></p>— x - Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/MileHighHockey/status/1781167308381044853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Colorado-Winnipeg series commences Sunday. Should the series go the distance, Game 7 is scheduled for May 4.</p><p>Drouin has played in the Stanley Cup Playoffs three times, most recently in 2020 with the Montreal Canadiens. He has six goals and 21 points in 33 career postseason contests.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - APRIL 5: Jonathan Drouin #27 of the Colorado Avalanche skates against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period at Rogers Place on April 5, 2024 in Edmonton, Canada.

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Avalanche's Drouin out for 1st round with lower-body injury

The 2023-24 NHL regular season was one of the best in recent memory.  With chaos in the standings...

<p>The 2023-24 NHL regular season was one of the best in recent memory.</p><p>With chaos in the standings until the final days, unexpected breakouts from numerous players, and dramatic storylines with long-term impacts, it was truly a campaign to remember.</p><p>Here are six surprises from the regular season as we wait for the playoffs to begin Saturday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Canucks soar to Pacific Division title</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/cropped_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/w220xh124_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/w320xh180_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/w640xh360_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/w768xh432_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621815/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2100348116.jpg?ts=1711257799 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Vinnick / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Coming into the season, the Vancouver Canucks were viewed as potential challengers for a wild-card spot but were considered firmly behind Pacific Division rivals like the Vegas Golden Knights, Edmonton Oilers, and L.A. Kings.</p><p>Even the team's staunchest supporters didn't see a division title and near Presidents' Trophy campaign in the offing. But here we are.</p><p>Vancouver's turnaround has been swift. With Jack Adams favorite Rick Tocchet at the helm, the Canucks have gotten star performances from top players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7699" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6354" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock Boeser</a>, with the first two legitimate contenders to win major end-of-season awards.</p><p>The Canucks' 26-point improvement from 2022-23 is the most league-wide, eight more than the Florida Panthers in second. It's a drastic jump, and it means Vancouver will host playoff games for the first time in nine years.</p><h3>Devils crumble with injuries, goaltending woes</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/cropped_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/w220xh124_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/w320xh180_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/w640xh360_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/w768xh432_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/598323/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1760581889.jpg?ts=1698513986 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The New Jersey Devils were among the most positive surprises a season ago, going from bottom five to top five in the league standings.</p><p>With a young roster boasting exciting offensive talent, most pictured the Devils to continue their rapid rise. In fact, New Jersey was the popular pick to claim the division in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2731378" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2731378">theScore's preseason predictions</a>.</p><p>Progression isn't always linear, and the Devils found that out this season. New Jersey tumbled down the standings to finish the campaign with just 81 points - a massive 31-point drop from the year prior, the largest in the NHL.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack Hughes</a> missed 20 games, but the key loss was ultimately <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2155" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2155">Dougie Hamilton</a>. The veteran defenseman was injured in late November and didn't play again, missing 62 games in total.</p><p>That absence, combined with abhorrent goaltending from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4035" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4035">Vitek Vanecek</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10867" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10867">Akira Schmid</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9231" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9231">Nico Daws</a>, has given New Jersey a reality check heading into an important offseason.</p><h3>Reinhart, Hyman surpass 50 goals</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/cropped_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/w220xh124_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/w320xh180_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/w640xh360_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/w768xh432_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/610667/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1888705760.jpg?ts=1704828417 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>If you asked someone in September to name the players who'd score 50 goals in 2023-24, you'd have waited a while for a mention of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1723" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1723">Zach Hyman</a>. You'd probably still be waiting to hear <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a>'s name.</p><p>The two wingers crushed their previous career bests with remarkable campaigns.</p><p>Reinhart, whose previous career high was 33, sniffed 60 with a 57-goal season. It was a contract year for the ages, as the 28-year-old finished second in the "Rocket" Richard Trophy race.</p><p>Then there's Hyman, who has netted over 25% of his career goals this year alone. The 31-year-old's 54-goal campaign is a great example of hard work paying off.</p><h3>Oilers falter early, charge back into contention</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/cropped_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/w220xh124_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/w320xh180_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/w640xh360_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/w768xh432_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/603749/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1808805757.jpg?ts=1701235681 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Devlin / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Oilers were 10 points out of a playoff spot at American Thanksgiving. A team that was expected to contend for the Stanley Cup was closer to the Chicago Blackhawks and San Jose Sharks in points than the second wild-card spot.</p><p>And yet, the Oilers end the season second in the Pacific Division and will host a first-round playoff series.</p><p>It didn't come easy: Edmonton needed a near NHL-record 16-game winning streak to leap back into contention.</p><p>The early-season woes cost bench boss Jay Woodcroft his job. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a>'s former OHL coach, Kris Knoblauch, was tabbed to take the reins, and the team has flourished under his watch.</p><p>As the Oilers gear up for the playoffs and celebrate McDavid's 100 assists and Hyman's 50 goals, it's easy to forget just how close 2023-24 came to utter disaster.</p><h3>Welcome to the NHL ... Utah?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/cropped_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/w220xh124_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/w320xh180_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/w640xh360_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/w768xh432_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/624675/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1923293647.jpg?ts=1713060669 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>An Arizona Coyotes relocation isn't a surprise in itself. Most assumed it was a matter of time if an arena solution didn't come to fruition.</p><p>But Arizona seemed to be in it for the long haul just a few weeks ago when the team announced a commitment to win a land auction and build an arena.</p><p>Then, out of left field, reports emerged that the NHL was preparing two schedules for the 2024-25 season: one with the Coyotes in Arizona, and one with the team in Salt Lake City. Within days, the relocation to Utah was all but officially announced.</p><p>The franchise had been surrounded by relocation rumors in recent years, but it's the sudden nature of the move that makes it one of the season's biggest surprises and certainly the one with the biggest long-term effect on the league.</p><h3>Lindgren leads Caps back to playoffs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/cropped_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/w220xh124_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/w320xh180_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/w640xh360_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/w768xh432_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621252/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2076720034.jpg?ts=1710947927 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>In the summer of 2022, the Washington Capitals signed two goaltenders to multi-year contracts.</p><p>The first, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2003" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2003">Darcy Kuemper</a>, was coming off a Stanley Cup triumph with the Colorado Avalanche. Naturally, he received the headlines with his prior success and $26.25-million commitment.</p><p>The second flew under the radar. After a stellar season in the AHL and impressive NHL results in a tiny five-game sample, the Capitals rolled the dice on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5525" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5525">Charlie Lindgren</a> on a three-year contract at a minuscule $1.1-million cap hit, presumably to be a backup.</p><p>Fast forward two seasons and it's Lindgren, not Kuemper, who's leading the Capitals back to the playoffs.</p><p>The numbers since March, as Washington pushed to make the postseason, are telling:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Games</th>
<th>Record</th>
<th>SV%</th>
<th>Shutouts</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lindgren</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>13-7-2</td>
<td>.916</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kuemper</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>0-2-0</td>
<td>.869</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Given Kuemper's experience and cap hit, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him take over if Lindgren falters early against the New York Rangers. But entering the postseason, there's no doubt it's Lindgren's crease.</p><p>Few saw the Capitals as a playoff team at the start of the season. Nobody envisioned it would be on the back of Lindgren.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - DECEMBER 5: Nils Hoglander #21 is congratulated by J.T. Miller #9 Quinn Hughes #43 and Brock Boeser #6 of the Vancouver Canucks after scoring a goal on Vitek Vanecek #41 of the New Jersey Devils during the third period of their NHL game at Rogers Arena on December 5, 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/27033774/related

6 surprises from the NHL's regular season

The Montreal Canadiens have exercised head coach Martin St. Louis' option and extended him for an...

<p>The Montreal Canadiens have exercised head coach Martin St. Louis' option and extended him for an additional two seasons, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>St. Louis is now under contract through the 2026-27 campaign.</p><p>"He's very impressive, he's the right person for what we're doing here, and not a day goes by we're not happy with him," vice president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/ArponBasu/status/1780594802482176089">The Athletic's Arpon Basu</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>St. Louis, 48, was hired by Montreal midway through the 2021-22 season after the firing of Dominique Ducharme. Since taking over, the Canadiens are 75-100-26 and have finished last in the Atlantic Division all three seasons.</p><p>The Hall of Famer has been lauded for his work with young players. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a> blossomed under St. Louis' tutelage after rookie season struggles with Ducharme, and first overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12706" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/12706">Juraj Slafkovsky</a> broke out in the second half this season.</p>

DETROIT, MI - APRIL 15: Head Coach Martin St-Louis of the Montreal Canadiens watches the action from the bench against the Detroit Red Wings during the third period at Little Caesars Arena on April 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit defeated Montreal in O.T. 5-4.

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Canadiens pick up St. Louis' option, extend him for 2 years

Macklin Celebrini topped NHL Central Scouting's final rankings on Tuesday.  Celebrini maintains h...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/14642" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaah/players/14642">Macklin Celebrini</a> topped NHL Central Scouting's final rankings on Tuesday.</p><p>Celebrini maintains his spot at No. 1 among North American skaters from the mid-term rankings. The Vancouver native has been the projected first overall pick all season.</p><p>A standout at Boston University, Celebrini tallied 32 goals and 64 points in 38 games as a freshman this season. He became the youngest player to win the Hobey Baker Award as the most outstanding player in NCAA men's hockey.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Celebrini also starred with Canada's world junior team in December, leading the squad with four goals and eight points in five games.</p><p>"It's truly impressive how he is able to thrive in every environment he plays, possessing that rare ability with his skills and passion to face every challenge head-on and generate results all the while making himself a better player," vice president of NHL Central Scouting Dan Marr <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/nhl-draft/2024-nhl-draft-final-north-american-rankings">said</a>.</p><p>Here are the top 10 North American skaters:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Final Rank</th>
<th>Mid-Term Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Nationality</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Boston University (NCAA)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>Artyom Levshunov</td>
<td>RHD</td>
<td>🇧🇾</td>
<td>Michigan State (NCAA)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Cayden Lindstrom</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Medicine Hat (WHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>Zeev Buium</td>
<td>LHD</td>
<td>🇺🇸</td>
<td>Denver (NCAA)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>Zayne Parekh</td>
<td>RHD</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Saginaw (OHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Trevor Connelly</td>
<td>LW</td>
<td>🇺🇸</td>
<td>Tri-City (USHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>Sam Dickinson</td>
<td>LHD</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>London (OHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>Berkly Catton</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Spokane (WHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Tij Iginla</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Kelowna (WHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Michael Hage</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇨🇦</td>
<td>Chicago (USHL)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>On the international side, defenseman Anton Silayev jumps to the No. 1 spot after impressing in the KHL.</p><p>"It's not often you find a 6-foot-7, 211-pound defenseman capable of moving like him with his smooth and active skating stride," NHL director of European scouting Jukka-Pekka Vuorinen <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/nhl-draft/2024-nhl-draft-final-international-rankings">said</a>. "He seems to be ready to play in the NHL almost immediately."</p><p>Here are the top 10 international skaters:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Final Rank</th>
<th>Mid-Term Rank</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Nationality</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>Anton Silayev</td>
<td>LHD</td>
<td>🇷🇺</td>
<td>Torpedo (KHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Ivan Demidov</td>
<td>RW</td>
<td>🇷🇺</td>
<td>SKA-1946 (MHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Konsta Helenius</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇫🇮</td>
<td>Jukurit (Liiga)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>Adam Jiricek</td>
<td>RHD</td>
<td>🇨🇿</td>
<td>Plzen (Czechia)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Michael Brandsegg-Nygard</td>
<td>RW</td>
<td>🇳🇴</td>
<td>Mora (SWE-2)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Emil Hemming</td>
<td>RW</td>
<td>🇫🇮</td>
<td>TPS (Liiga)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Leo Sahlin Wallenius</td>
<td>LHD</td>
<td>🇸🇪</td>
<td>Vaxjo (J20)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>Aron Kiviharju</td>
<td>LHD</td>
<td>🇫🇮</td>
<td>HIFK (Liiga)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>Igor Chernyshov</td>
<td>LW</td>
<td>🇷🇺</td>
<td>Dynamo (KHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>Linus Eriksson</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>🇸🇪</td>
<td>Djurgarden (SWE-2)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Mikhail Yegorov of the USHL's Omaha Lancers paces North American goaltenders, while Finland's Eemil Vinni tops international netminders.</p><p>The 2024 NHL Draft takes place June 28-29 at The Sphere in Las Vegas.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 23: Macklin Celebrini #71 of the Boston University Terriers skates against the Boston College Eagles during the first period during the Hockey East Championship final at TD Garden on March 23, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Eagles won 6-2 and captured their first Hockey East title in twelve years.

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Montreal Canadiens prospect Logan Mailloux has been cleared to play in the NHL, the league confir...

<p>Montreal Canadiens prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10558" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10558">Logan Mailloux</a> has been cleared to play in the NHL, the league confirmed Tuesday, per <a href="https://x.com/EricEngels/status/1780242006054142169">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>.</p><p>"We have met with Logan Mailloux multiple times over the course of the last 8-10 months," the league said. "We are comfortable that he recognizes the gravity of his prior conduct and is committed to making better and more responsible decisions in the future."</p><p>Mailloux is in the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Detroit Red Wings, his club announced.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In November 2020, Mailloux was charged and fined for invasion of privacy and defamation in Sweden after photographing a woman without consent during a sexual encounter, identifying her to teammates, and sharing pictures with them.</p><p>Montreal recalled Mailloux after Monday's overtime loss against the Detroit Red Wings. He played three preseason games with the team in September.</p><p>The Canadiens controversially drafted Mailloux 31st overall in the 2021 draft. Mailloux had withdrawn from the draft, stating he didn't feel he'd demonstrated the maturity or character to have the privilege of being drafted, but Montreal still selected him.</p><p>Team owner Geoff Molson said the decision was a mistake days after the draft.</p><p>Deputy commissioner Bill Daly noted in November 2022 that Mailloux wasn't yet eligible to play in the NHL.</p><p>Mailloux has 14 goals, 47 points, and 89 penalty minutes in 70 games this season with the AHL's Laval Rocket. He leads all AHL rookie defensemen in scoring.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - SEPTEMBER 25: Look on Montreal Canadiens defenseman Logan Mailloux (94) at warm-up before the New Jersey Devils versus the Montreal Canadiens preseason game on September 25, 2023, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC

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Rory McIlroy dispelled a British outlet's report of a blockbuster move to LIV Golf on Tuesday.  "...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/599" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/599">Rory McIlroy</a> dispelled a British outlet's report of a blockbuster move to LIV Golf on Tuesday.</p><p>"I honestly don't know how these things get started," McIlroy told <a href="https://x.com/GolfCentral/status/1780262693045150050">NBC's Todd Lewis</a>. "I've never been offered a number from LIV, and I've never contemplated going to LIV."</p><p>He added: "I will play the PGA TOUR for the rest of my career."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>City A.M., a London-based business and financial paper, <a href="https://www.cityam.com/analysis-is-rory-mcilroy-close-to-joining-liv-golf-in-a-sensational-850m-u-turn/">reported</a> Monday that McIlroy was close to joining LIV Golf in a stunning $850-million deal, plus 2% equity in the rival tour.</p><p>McIlroy's manager, Sean O'Flaherty, dismissed the rumors as well.</p><p>"Fake news. Zero truth," Sean O'Flaherty told <a href="https://www.independent.ie/sport/golf/report-of-rory-mcilroys-850million-move-to-liv-golf-dismissed-as-fake-news-by-players-manager/a1474654763.html">Irish Independent's Brian Keogh</a> on Tuesday.</p><p>McIlroy has been among LIV's most vocal critics since the tour commenced play, though his stance has softened in recent months.</p><p>The Northern Irishman walked back previous criticism of players who joined LIV, calling his remarks "a bit of a mistake" in January.</p><p>LIV made its biggest splash in December by signing 2023 Masters champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a> on a multi-year deal worth €450 million.</p><p>Last June, the PGA announced a shock framework deal with the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which finances LIV.</p><p>McIlroy is set to compete at the RBC Heritage in South Carolina this weekend.</p>

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 12: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland walks the eighth fairway during the second round of the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 12, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia.

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The Buffalo Sabres fired head coach Don Granato, the team announced Tuesday.  Granato, 56, took o...

<p>The Buffalo Sabres fired head coach Don Granato, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Granato, 56, took over as Sabres head coach midway through the 2020-21 campaign. Buffalo went 122-125-27 with him behind the bench, failing to make the playoffs all four seasons.</p><p>"I would like to thank Don for his time in Buffalo and commitment to the Sabres organization," general manager Kevyn Adams said in a statement Tuesday morning. "He has been integral in the development of many of our players and has undoubtedly been the right coach to bring us to where we are now, but I felt it was necessary to move in a different direction at this point in time.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"My expectation is to be a consistent contender, and unfortunately, that goal has not been met."</p><p>Hours later, Adams elaborated with more pointed remarks. The GM said his team is "craving accountability and structure," according to <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/MatthewFairburn/status/1780315906050056284">The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn</a>. </p><p>Adams also had a message for his players.</p><p>"It's go time," he <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/MatthewFairburn/status/1780318091764789618">said</a>. "It's time to perform on an individual level and a team level."</p><p>The executive added that previous NHL head coaching experience will be "important" as he chooses Granato's successor, per <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/rachelhopmayer/status/1780314727949775166">Spectrum News 1's Rachel Hopmayer</a>.</p><p>The Sabres finished sixth in the Atlantic Division with 84 points and a 39-37-6 record. Buffalo was expected to challenge for a playoff spot after a strong end to the 2022-23 season. The team finished one point back of the Florida Panthers for the second wild-card spot last year.</p><p>Granato is the seventh head coach the Sabres have fired in the 13 straight years they've missed the playoffs. He joins Lindy Ruff, Ron Rolston, Ted Nolan, Dan Bylsma, Phil Housley, and Ralph Krueger.</p><p>The Downers Grove, Illinois, native was under contract through the 2025-26 season after inking a two-year extension in October 2022.</p><p>The Sabres also dismissed assistant coach Jason Christie and video coordinator Matt Smith.</p>

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - MARCH 3: Head coach Don Granato of the Buffalo Sabres watches the action against the Winnipeg Jets during an NHL game on March 3, 2024 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.

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The Florida Panthers announced Monday they signed general manager Bill Zito to a multi-year contr...

<p>The Florida Panthers announced Monday they signed general manager Bill Zito to a multi-year contract extension.</p><p>Zito, 59, also now becomes the Panthers' president of hockey operations.</p><p>"From his first day as a Panther, Bill has demonstrated his complete commitment to success both on and off the ice," owner Vincent Viola <a href="https://www.nhl.com/panthers/news/florida-panthers-and-general-manager-bill-zito-agree-to-multi-year-extension">said</a>. "He has worked steadfastly and tirelessly to establish a new standard of excellence for our franchise. The future has never looked brighter in South Florida and we are thrilled that Bill will continue to lead the way."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Zito was hired by the Panthers in 2020 after seven seasons as an assistant GM with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Florida has made the playoffs each season with Zito at the helm, including a Presidents' Trophy in 2022 and a Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2023.</p><p>The Pittsburgh native has twice been a finalist for the GM of the Year award. On Friday, he was named an assistant GM on Team USA's staff for the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off and 2026 Olympics.</p><p>Zito's marquee move to date is the acquisition of star forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> in 2022, which sent franchise stalwart <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2037" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2037">Jonathan Huberdeau</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3222" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3222">MacKenzie Weegar</a>, and a first-round pick to the Calgary Flames.</p><p>The Panthers also added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3208" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3208">Carter Verhaeghe</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3949" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3949">Sam Bennett</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9416" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9416">Gustav Forsling</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4487" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4487">Brandon Montour</a> during Zito's tenure as GM.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JUNE 29: General manager of the Florida Panthers, Bill Zito is seen during the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft - Rounds 2-7 at Bridgestone Arena on June 29, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid is returning to the lineup against the San Jose Sharks, ...

<p>Edmonton Oilers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> is returning to the lineup against the San Jose Sharks, he told reporters Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/DNBsports/status/1779915946280558799">The Athletic's Daniel Nugent-Bowman</a>.</p><p>McDavid missed three games with a lower-body injury. He last played on April 6 against the Calgary Flames.</p><p>The 27-year-old has 130 points in 74 games to rank third in league scoring. McDavid is one assist away from becoming the fourth player in NHL history to tally 100 assists in a single season. He'd be the first to do so since Wayne Gretzky in 1990-91.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tampa Bay Lightning star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3322" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3322">Nikita Kucherov</a> also plays Monday and is two assists away from accomplishing the feat.</p><p>An Oilers loss in any fashion against the Sharks would see the Vancouver Canucks clinch the top seed in the Pacific Division.</p><p>Edmonton has two games remaining after Monday's contest. The Oilers face the Arizona Coyotes on Wednesday and close out the regular season Thursday versus the Colorado Avalanche.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - APRIL 5: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers warms up before the game against the Colorado Avalanche at Rogers Place on April 5, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs announced they signed defenseman Nicolas Mattinen to a one-year, two-way ...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs announced they signed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5852" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5852">Nicolas Mattinen</a> to a one-year, two-way contract worth $775,000 that begins next season.</p><p>Mattinen, 26, accrued 16 goals and 46 points in 52 games with the German league's Straubing Tigers this season. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound blue-liner was named the DEL Player of the Year.</p><p>The Orleans, Ontario, native was drafted 179th overall by the Maple Leafs in 2016 but wasn't signed after his OHL career ended. Mattinen played two seasons at the University of Ottawa, winning U Sports Defenceman of the Year in 2022.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>After a brief eight-game tenure with the AHL's Laval Rocket, Mattinen joined Villacher SV in the Austrian league for its 2022-23 campaign. He tallied 12 goals and 42 points and was a plus-37 in 46 games.</p><p>Mattinen is the latest big defenseman acquired by the Maple Leafs. Toronto has added 6-foot-3 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9758" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9758">Simon Benoit</a>, 6-foot-5 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2136" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2136">Joel Edmundson</a>, and 6-foot-7 prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/14275" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/14275">Cade Webber</a> since Brad Treliving took over as general manager.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 10: A detail of the Toronto Maple Leafs logo during the third period against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on February 10, 2021 in Montreal, Canada. The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-2.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs assigned goaltender Matt Murray to the AHL's Toronto Marlies on a long-te...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs assigned goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3110" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3110">Matt Murray</a> to the AHL's Toronto Marlies on a long-term injured reserve conditioning loan, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Murray, 29, hasn't played a game all season after undergoing bilateral hip surgery in October. He was expected to miss a minimum of six to eight months.</p><p>The two-time Stanley Cup champion remains on LTIR while in the AHL. Murray's conditioning loan lasts six days or three games, which will take him through the end of the NHL's regular season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>There is no salary cap in the playoffs, so the Maple Leafs can activate a healthy Murray after April 18 with no cap ramifications.</p><p>Murray posted a .903 save percentage in 26 games last season. He last played against the Detroit Red Wings on April 2, 2023, a game he left due to injury.</p>

SUNRISE, FL - MARCH 23: Goaltender Matt Murray #30 of the Toronto Maple Leafs warms up prior to the game against the Florida Panthers at the FLA Live Arena on March 23, 2023 in Sunrise, Florida.

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The Montreal Canadiens signed top prospect Lane Hutson to a three-year entry-level contract begin...

<p>The Montreal Canadiens signed top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12709" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/12709">Lane Hutson</a> to a three-year entry-level contract beginning this season, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Hutson racked up 15 goals and 49 points in 38 games this season with Boston University. The defenseman had two more years of NCAA eligibility remaining.</p><p>The 20-year-old will join the Canadiens in Detroit on Monday ahead of their final two games of the season, <a href="https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/1778857600458588630">TSN's Chris Johnston</a> reports. He won't be with the team for Saturday's contest against the Ottawa Senators.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The first year of Hutson's contract will count toward the 2023-24 campaign regardless of whether he plays a game. He's also ineligible to be sent down to the AHL until next season.</p><p>The Terriers lost in the Frozen Four semifinals Thursday, paving the way for Hutson to sign and forgo the remainder of his collegiate career.</p><p>The Canadiens drafted Hutson 62nd overall in 2022. He exploded offensively as a freshman with the Terriers, recording 15 goals and 48 points. The 5-foot-10, 162-pound rearguard earned numerous accolades, including Hockey East Rookie of the Year.</p><p>Hutson was dominant again this season, finishing as a top-10 Hobey Baker finalist for the second year in a row.</p><p>With 97 points in 77 NCAA games, Hutson is the highest-scoring collegiate defenseman since 1997 on a per-game basis.</p><p>Hutson has starred with Team USA at the world juniors and World Championship. He tallied six points in nine games at the Worlds last spring and was the top blue-liner on the U.S. squad that won gold at the world juniors in January.</p>

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 12: Boston University defenseman Lane Hutson (20) eyes a face off during the Beanpot Championship game between Boston University and Northeastern on February 12, 2024, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.

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The United States rounded out its management staff for the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off and 2026 Olymp...

<p>The United States rounded out its management staff for the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off and 2026 Olympics on Friday.</p><p>New York Rangers general manager Chris Drury, New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald, and Florida Panthers GM Bill Zito will serve as assistant GMs for the two events, USA Hockey announced Friday.</p><p>The trio will support Bill Guerin of the Minnesota Wild for both tournaments, who was named USA's GM in February. Guerin also named Wild director of player personnel Chris Keller to his international staff in the same role.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We've got a great management group, and I'm excited to work with them in representing our country," Guerin said. "It's an exciting time in USA Hockey, and we're focused on bringing home championships from both events."</p><p>Drury, 47, was a GM for the U.S. at the World Championships in 2019 and 2021. He was also an assistant GM at the event in 2016 and 2017. As a player, he represented his nation at three Olympics (2002, 2006, and 2010), three World Championships, and the 2004 World Cup of Hockey. He's been at the helm of the Rangers since 2021.</p><p>Fitzgerald, 55, has never been an executive with Team USA. He played for the U.S. at the World Championships in 1989 and 1991. He was named GM of the Devils in 2020.</p><p>Zito, 59, is the only member of the group who didn't play in the NHL. He was the United States' GM at the 2018 World Championship and has been GM of the Panthers since 2020.</p><p>The 4 Nations Face-Off runs from Feb. 12-20 in 2025, while the Olympics are set for February 2026 in Italy.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 28: General Manager Chris Drury of the New York Rangers speaks during a press conference prior to the jersey retirement ceremony for Henrik Lundqvist taking place before the game between the New York Rangers and Minnesota Wild at Madison Square Garden on January 28, 2022 in New York City. Henrik Lundqvist played all 15 seasons of his NHL career with the Rangers before retiring in 2020.

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The Vegas Golden Knights signed defenseman Noah Hanifin to an eight-year contract extension with ...

<p>The Vegas Golden Knights signed defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4559" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a> to an eight-year contract extension with a cap hit of $7.35 million, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Hanifin will have a full no-trade clause for the first six seasons of the contract and a 15-team no-trade list in the final two years, reports <a href="https://x.com/reporterchris/status/1778520385421766915">TSN's Chris Johnston</a>.</p><p>The 27-year-old will receive $29.4 million in signing bonuses over the next four seasons, <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1778520680663015796">LeBrun</a> reports. He'll have a base salary of $5.7 million with no signing bonuses in the last four years of the contract.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Golden Knights acquired Hanifin from the Calgary Flames before the trade deadline for defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11129" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/11129">Daniil Miromanov</a>, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2024 third-round pick. Vegas also sent a 2024 fifth-rounder to the Philadelphia Flyers for extra retained salary.</p><p>Hanifin has nine points in 16 games with the Golden Knights while playing 23:02 per contest. He has 13 goals and 44 points in 77 outings this season.</p><p>He was in the final year of the six-year, $4.95-million contract he signed in 2018. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent.</p><p>Hanifin becomes the seventh NHL defenseman under contract through next season with the Golden Knights. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1098" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1098">Alex Pietrangelo</a> has a higher cap hit among the team's blue-liners at $8.8 million.</p><p>36-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/578" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/578">Alec Martinez</a> is Vegas' lone remaining pending unrestricted free agent on the back end.</p><p>Hanifin was drafted fifth overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2015. He's accumulated 62 goals and 283 points in 675 games over his nine-season NHL career.</p>

WINNIPEG, CANADA - MARCH 28: Noah Hanifin #15 of the Vegas Golden Knights skates during first period action against the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on March 28, 2024 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

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Golden Knights sign Hanifin to 8-year, $58.8M extension

Anaheim Ducks forward Jakob Silfverberg is retiring from the NHL at the end of the 2023-24 season...

<p>Anaheim Ducks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2009" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2009">Jakob Silfverberg</a> is retiring from the NHL at the end of the 2023-24 season, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Silfverberg, 33, has seven goals and 19 points in 78 games this campaign. The Swede is in the final season of the five-year contract he signed in 2019.</p><p>"Thank you to the fans around the league, specifically in Anaheim and Ottawa," Silfverberg <a href="https://www.nhl.com/ducks/news/silfverberg-announces-retirement-from-nhl-at-conclusion-of-season">said</a>. "To spend 11 years in Orange County playing for the Ducks is something I will cherish every day, thanks in large part to all of you."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Silfverberg has accumulated 158 goals and 354 points in 769 contests with Anaheim. He tallied four 20-goal seasons and scored a career-high 49 points in 2016-17.</p><p>Acquired from the Ottawa Senators in 2013 in the Bobby Ryan trade, Silfverberg ranks fifth in games played and goals in Ducks franchise history.</p><p>"He was the ultimate character player for the Ducks, Senators, and his native Sweden, leading by example and always putting the team first," Anaheim general manager Pat Verbeek said. "His contributions on the ice and in the Orange County community will have a lasting impact."</p><p>Silfverberg performed well across seven postseasons. He scored 18 points in 16 games during the Ducks' 2015 run to the Western Conference Final, and he tallied a team-best nine goals in Anaheim's 2017 trip to the conference finals.</p><p>The Swede represented his nation on numerous occasions, most notably at the 2014 Olympics and 2016 World Cup. He captained Team Sweden at the World Championship last spring.</p><p>Drafted 39th overall in 2009 by the Senators, Silfverberg has totaled 168 goals and 373 points in 817 NHL games.</p>

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 31: Jakob Silfverberg #33 of the Anaheim Ducks skates on the ice during warm ups prior to the game against the San Jose Sharks at Honda Center on January 31, 2024 in Anaheim, California.

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Ducks' Silfverberg retiring from NHL after season

The Arizona Coyotes could move to Salt Lake City as soon as next season, ESPN's Emily Kaplan and ...

<p>The Arizona Coyotes could move to Salt Lake City as soon as next season, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/39915208/coyotes-relocate-salt-lake-city-part-nhl-plan">ESPN's Emily Kaplan and Greg Wyshynski</a> report.</p><p>The NHL has prepared an option that would see the team sold to Smith Entertainment Group, owners of the NBA's Utah Jazz, and relocated to Salt Lake City, sources told Kaplan and Wyshynski.</p><p>The three parties have made significant progress on a framework agreement, and the NHL sent a memo to the board of governors updating the situation Wednesday, reports <a href="https://x.com/frank_seravalli/status/1778132841622057025">Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly wouldn't divulge details when asked about the reports.</p><p>"The league is continuing to work on a solution to what has been a challenging and difficult situation," Daly told <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1778176272704713197">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>. "But we are not in a position to comment beyond that."</p><p>The league still believes a team should be in Arizona but is skeptical about the Coyotes' newest arena plans, per ESPN.</p><p>The Coyotes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2885108" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2885108">announced</a> last week their commitment to winning a land auction in the Phoenix area and building a privately funded arena and entertainment district on the 110-acre plot. However, Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2888271" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2888271">slammed</a> the plans Monday, calling the concept "not feasible or welcome."</p><p>Winning the June 27 auction could allow the Coyotes to remain in Arizona long term. But the franchise could be based in another state by that date, as an announcement of the sale and relocation could come as early as April 18, the day after the Coyotes' final regular-season game,<a href="https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/sources-nhl-drafting-2024-25-schedule-version-with-coyotes-relocated-to-salt-lake-city"> Seravalli</a> adds.</p><p>Two versions of the NHL's 2024-25 league schedule are being drafted with the potential of the Arizona Coyotes relocating to Salt Lake City, Seravalli reported earlier Wednesday.</p><p>One schedule sees the Coyotes remain in Arizona for another season, and the other features the franchise playing at Utah's Delta Center.</p><p>Ryan Smith, owner of the Jazz, added to the speculation the franchise could be on the move last week when he <a href="https://x.com/RyanQualtrics/status/1777358880437317889">asked</a> fans on X for their opinion on a name for a Utah-based NHL team.</p><p>Coyotes owner Alex Meruelo selling control of the franchise would cost an interested buyer north of $1.2 billion, which includes the NHL's relocation fees, per Seravalli.</p><p>The Coyotes posted a video on X reiterating their commitment to remaining in Phoenix.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Committed to keeping Coyotes Hockey in the desert &amp; building an arena in Phoenix. <a href="https://t.co/gJz4b4A8xO">pic.twitter.com/gJz4b4A8xO</a></p>— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArizonaCoyotes/status/1778141750311436348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Atlanta Thrashers are the last NHL franchise to relocate, moving to Winnipeg in 2011. That sale and relocation was announced on May 31, and the team played in Winnipeg the following campaign.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 29: A detailed view of the Arizona Coyotes logo on the jersey worn by Johan Larsson #22 of the Arizona Coyotes during the third period of the game against the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena on October 29, 2021 in Washington, DC.

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Report: Coyotes could move to Utah by next season

The 2023-24 NCAA men's hockey season culminates this week in St. Paul, Minnesota, with Boston Col...

<p>The 2023-24 NCAA men's hockey season culminates this week in St. Paul, Minnesota, with Boston College, Boston University, Denver, and Michigan challenging for the Frozen Four title.</p><p>The No. 1 ranked Eagles take on the No. 10 underdogs from Ann Arbor in one semifinal, and No. 2 BU faces No. 3 Denver in a battle of two top seeds from the regional bracket in the other.</p><p>Here are 10 prospects to keep an eye on ahead of the tournament's action Thursday and Saturday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>BC's fab freshmen</h3><p>When Boston College recruited the U.S. NTDP's entire first line from its 2005 age group, many expected the trio to be successful in the NCAA before long.</p><p>But the freshmen line of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13841" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13841">Will Smith</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13827" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13827">Ryan Leonard</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13821" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13821">Gabe Perreault</a> hasn't just been successful; They've arguably been the best line in all of college hockey.</p><p>Smith, drafted fourth overall last summer by the San Jose Sharks, leads the nation in scoring with 23 goals and 69 points in 39 games. Leonard (eighth by the Washington Capitals) and Perreault (23rd by the New York Rangers) aren't far behind.</p><p>Leonard has been a beast in the postseason. He scored two goals in each of the Eagles' regional wins and has recorded seven points in three games going back to the Hockey East final.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Fresh Prince earns his crown 👑 (or in this case his cap)<br><br>📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/NESN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NESN</a>-Plus<br>💻 <a href="https://t.co/5s2DsDrbpC">https://t.co/5s2DsDrbpC</a> <a href="https://t.co/D0RRddI2uz">pic.twitter.com/D0RRddI2uz</a></p>— BC Men's Hockey (@BC_MHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/BC_MHockey/status/1771713277501825446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>By the way, Smith casually bagged four goals and five points in the Hockey East final.</p><p>The trio has obliterated every level they've played at. The USHL, Under-18s, World Juniors, and now the NCAA have all been brushed aside by the three of them as if it were supposed to be this easy.</p><p>With NHL contracts on the horizon, this weekend is likely the last time we see the dominant trio together for a number of years, if not ever. Enjoy the show before it leaves town.</p><h3>The most hated man in Philadelphia</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/cropped_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/w220xh124_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/w320xh180_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/w640xh360_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/w768xh432_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607443/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1813495111.jpg?ts=1703023997 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Philadelphia Flyers surprised the hockey world when they traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12716" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/12716">Cutter Gauthier</a> to the Anaheim Ducks for defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9207" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9207">Jamie Drysdale</a> and a second-round pick in January.</p><p>The revelation that Gauthier refused to sign in Philadelphia only made the situation more shocking.</p><p>That saga has impacted a lot of people's opinion of Gauthier. But let's make one thing abundantly clear: The Boston College winger is a helluva hockey player.</p><p>Gauthier could be the best-drafted prospect who's not currently in the NHL. He led all American players with seven goals at the 2023 Worlds, paced Team USA in points at the world juniors, and is gunning for the best goal-scoring season in college hockey since the turn of the millennium.</p><p>Gauthier ticks every box a general manager could want in a prospect. He's got a pro frame at 6-foot-3 and 190 pounds. The 20-year-old also plays a physical game and has a cannon of a shot, not to mention the puck-handling skills to go with it all. Gauthier can make a no-look assist like this appear simple:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cut gets his second assist of the night as Gasseau finds net 🤌<br><br>📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/NESN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NESN</a>-Plus<br>💻 <a href="https://t.co/5s2DsDrbpC">https://t.co/5s2DsDrbpC</a> <a href="https://t.co/yDjKuZRk52">pic.twitter.com/yDjKuZRk52</a></p>— BC Men's Hockey (@BC_MHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/BC_MHockey/status/1771284765573878097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>And despite the success of his aforementioned freshmen teammates, those skills are why Gauthier is the Eagles player nominated for the Hobey Baker Award.</p><p>You'll get a taste of what we'll see for years to come on the Ducks' first line this weekend.</p><h3>2024 draft prospects on display</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/cropped_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/w220xh124_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/w320xh180_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/w640xh360_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/w768xh432_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/605168/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1754398951.jpg?ts=1701965400 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/14642" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaah/players/14642">Macklin Celebrini</a> entered the season as the favorite to go first overall in June but had competitors for the top spot.</p><p>However, he's gapped the field with a remarkable freshman campaign at Boston University to firmly establish himself as the No. 1 prospect in the class. We've seen great NCAA campaigns from draft-eligible prospects like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13830" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13830">Adam Fantilli</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4558" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4558">Jack Eichel</a>, but Celebrini's age differentiates him.</p><p>Fantilli and Eichel turned 18 in October of their draft seasons. Celebrini celebrates his birthday in June.</p><p>Celebrini broke Craig Simpson's 39-year-old NCAA record for goals by a 17-year-old with a tally against RIT in Boston University's tournament opener. He also became the youngest player ever to be a top-three finalist for the Hobey Baker, and there's a good chance he'll become the youngest to win the award.</p><p>The Vancouver native drives play in so many ways, whether with his prowess in transition, high-end skill and lethal shot in the offensive zone, or competitiveness and hard work in the defensive zone.</p><p>Come on, what is this wizardry?</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our freshman line has been absolutely electric to start the second! Chancer got things going with this equalizer.<br><br>📺: ESPNU<br>💻: <a href="https://t.co/drFcAzJDK4">https://t.co/drFcAzJDK4</a> (ESPN+) <a href="https://t.co/G3fIN0Phva">pic.twitter.com/G3fIN0Phva</a></p>— BU Men's Hockey (@TerrierHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/TerrierHockey/status/1774218755385491714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He's not the generational prospect that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> was, but he still projects to be an elite, star-caliber first-line center.</p><p>Celebrini isn't the only 2024 prospect on display, as Denver's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/14653" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaah/players/14653">Zeev Buium</a> is expected to go in the top 12 this summer.</p><p>Buium is more of the typical NCAA draft prospect as a December birthday, but that doesn't diminish anything he's done on the ice this season. The left-shot blue-liner has 49 points in 40 games, making him the most productive draft-eligible defenseman in NCAA history.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Zeev Buium called game! The slick dangles and the finish in overtime to send Denver to the NCHC championship game <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2024NHLDraft?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2024NHLDraft</a> <a href="https://t.co/F51YOtamZD">pic.twitter.com/F51YOtamZD</a></p>— J.D. Burke (@JDylanBurke) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDylanBurke/status/1771379646644257154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Although Buium's defensive game needs to improve, his skating, ability in transition, and offensive zone prowess make him an electrifying player, especially at the college level.</p><h3>Hutson's last hurrah</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/cropped_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/w220xh124_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/w320xh180_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/w640xh360_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/w768xh432_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607444/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1826961903.jpg?ts=1703024080 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Richard T Gagnon / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It can't be overstated how impressive Lane Hutson's last two seasons have been.</p><p>Not taken until the end of the second round in 2022 amid concerns over his size, Hutson immediately became a dominant offensive defenseman with Boston University as a freshman.</p><p>Hutson's put up a nearly identical stat line as a sophomore with 15 goals and 49 points in 37 contests, and he enters the Frozen Four on a seven-game point streak.</p><p>He's ridiculously good at the NCAA level with the puck on his stick. Hutson was the No. 1 college defender in primary assists and offensive zone entries (among other stats) this season, per <a href="https://x.com/Sportlogiq/status/1775887533722742945">SportLogiq</a>. He also paced all NCAA players in completed passes to the slot.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lane Hutson doing Lane Hutson Things™️ (30th Career Goal Version)<br><br>📺: ESPNU<br>💻: <a href="https://t.co/drFcAzJDK4">https://t.co/drFcAzJDK4</a> (ESPN+) <a href="https://t.co/vGTBFy7p1D">pic.twitter.com/vGTBFy7p1D</a></p>— BU Men's Hockey (@TerrierHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/TerrierHockey/status/1774225062087860521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Hutson will likely turn pro and sign with the Montreal Canadiens after this weekend. The matchup against Denver and a potential Frozen Four final will be his last hurrah as a collegiate player before taking on his next challenge in the NHL.</p><h3>Michigan's crew looks to play spoiler</h3><p>Three of the four No. 1 seeds made it to the Frozen Four. The exception was Michigan State, who were upset by their rivals from Ann Arbor.</p><p>Michigan has weathered the losses of Adam Fantilli, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke Hughes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10633" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10633">Mackie Samoskevich</a> with internal progression.</p><p>Columbus Blue Jackets prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13936" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13936">Gavin Brindley</a> took a huge step to become the Big Ten's best player. Winnipeg Jets first-rounder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaah/players/13467" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaah/players/13467">Rutger McGroarty</a> has flourished in a bigger role.</p><p>But no player has taken a bigger step than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12728" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/12728">Frank Nazar</a>. The Chicago Blackhawks first-round pick had an underwhelming freshman season after returning from hip surgery, posting two goals and seven points in 13 games.</p><p>With 17 goals and 41 points in 40 contests this time around, it's been sophomore success for the Detroit native.</p><p>Nazar bagged two goals in the Big Ten final against Michigan State and helped sewer the rivals from East Lansing in the NCAA Tournament regional final with a remarkable between-the-legs assist.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Frank Nazar III with one of the best passes you’ll see at any level of hockey. The <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLBlackhawks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHLBlackhawks</a> prospect is so skilled. <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLNetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHLNetwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/670TheScore?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@670TheScore</a> <a href="https://t.co/J2UX37Mbf2">pic.twitter.com/J2UX37Mbf2</a></p>— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/jonmorosi/status/1774603058749530270?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Almost 50 NHL-affiliated prospects will compete in Thursday's semis across the four teams. Whether you're cheering for one of the schools or simply a fan looking to get a glimpse of the next generation before they arrive in the NHL, you won't want to miss what's sure to be an electrifying ending to the NCAA season.</p>

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 05: Macklin Celebrini #71 of the Boston University Terriers celebrates his goal against the Boston College Eagles during the first period of the semifinals of the Beanpot Tournament at TD Garden on February 5, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, and Tampa Bay Lightning clinched Stanley Cup Playoffs b...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, and Tampa Bay Lightning clinched Stanley Cup Playoffs berths Friday.</p><p>Toronto did so after the Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals lost. Tampa Bay secured its spot moments later following the Detroit Red Wings' defeat.</p><p>Edmonton clinched with a 6-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Maple Leafs make the postseason for the eighth straight year. It's their longest streak in 43 years.</p><p>The Lightning head back to the playoffs for the seventh campaign in a row. Tampa has made the Stanley Cup Final three times during this span, winning it twice.</p><p>The Oilers were 10 points out of a playoff spot at American Thanksgiving. Edmonton stormed back up the standings after hiring Kris Knoblauch as head coach on Nov. 12 to secure a playoff berth for the fifth straight season.</p><p>Toronto and Tampa Bay join the Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, and Carolina Hurricanes as Eastern Conference teams to have clinched postseason berths.</p><p>Edmonton is the fifth Western Conference club to secure a playoff spot, joining the Dallas Stars, Avalanche, Winnipeg Jets, and Vancouver Canucks.</p>

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 11: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers skates against Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period at the Scotiabank Arena on March 11, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Maple Leafs, Oilers, Lightning clinch playoff berths

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