It can take five years and a few hundred games to properly assess the strength, depth, and potent...

<p>It can take five years and a few hundred games to properly assess the strength, depth, and potential of an NHL draft class.</p><p>A unique and exciting cohort just crossed that threshold. Players in the class of 2020 were drafted virtually during the thick of the pandemic and made their earliest NHL debuts in empty rinks. They used the 2024-25 season as a launchpad to prominence. </p><p>It's still a little early to tell if the class boasts a future Hall of Famer. We'll see how Lucas Raymond, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson - three of the top five picks and the undisputed best talents - progress in their primes, but they've already taken strides toward superstardom.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 20/20 vision" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-uR4FF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/uR4FF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="860" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>With 80 points, Raymond was the scoring leader for the Red Wings and all NHLers under the age of 25. His complete offensive game blends power, burst, vision, and shooting, and he was a hot Detroit power play's lead facilitator. He'll trade high-scoring seasons for the next decade with the electrifying Stutzle, who reduced costly giveaways and matured into a defensively adept, top playmaking center as the Senators finally reached the playoffs.</p><p>Sanderson - a play-killer, breakout machine, and increasingly dangerous scorer - appeared on Norris Trophy ballots at 22 years old and finished 10th in the voting. His big goals gave the United States the lead in the 4 Nations Face-Off final and beat the Maple Leafs in overtime, charging up the home crowd as Ottawa avoided a first-round sweep.</p><p>Playoff performers taken in 2020 include Anton Lundell, the Panthers' overqualified third-line center and only young cornerstone who is within two wins of his second Stanley Cup. Seth Jarvis, a pure finisher and dogged checker, tallied a point in 12 of 15 Hurricanes postseason games. Brock Faber skated for 27 minutes a night and helped quiet Jack Eichel as the underdog Wild threatened the Golden Knights with an early exit.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/cropped_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790043/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218333596.jpg?ts=1749721917 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Devlin / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The growth of the class was really on display in the Jets-Blues matchup.</p><p>The clever Cole Perfetti was able to save Winnipeg at the buzzer in Game 7 because he had his stick on the ice to tip a centering feed. Chippy presence Jake Neighbours had a three-point game earlier in the series as the Blues lit up Connor Hellebuyck. It's a shame Dylan Holloway was injured; after he signed an offer sheet to seize a greater opportunity in St. Louis, his career high in points instantly multiplied from nine to 63.</p><p>JJ Peterka fits fine in Buffalo, and the same goes for Marco Rossi in Minnesota, yet these restricted free agents are candidates to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3292226" href="https://thescore.com/news/3292226">move this summer</a>. Their breakout seasons came as the Sabres crashed in the standings and the Wild barely endured Kirill Kaprizov's long absence. They could ink extensions or be dangled for a nice trade return, but swapping either young forward at this stage of his rise sounds like a crushing, avoidable mistake.</p><p>Their draft class has unusual scoring depth: Nine members posted at least 50 points in 2024-25, their fifth season of NHL eligibility.</p><p>Few other cohorts were that productive at the same juncture. A close comparable is the '06 class headlined by Nicklas Backstrom, Claude Giroux, Phil Kessel, and Jonathan Toews.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🚨 Year 5 scoring" aria-label="Column Chart" id="datawrapper-chart-P5zDc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/P5zDc/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>This happened despite the stumbles of the top picks. There have been 41 forwards drafted first overall in the expansion era, and Alexis Lafreniere is only ahead of Doug Wickenheiser, Patrik Stefan, and Nail Yakupov in career points per game (0.51), according to <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/szP8K">Stathead</a>. Quinton Byfield has yet to impose his will throughout a full season, though he's shown flashes of dominance as the Kings' second-line center.</p><p>Five years ago, COVID-19 scrubbed major tournaments and delayed their draft until October as scouts combed through video to finalize evaluations and pass the time. The placeholder ball for "Team E" won the first of two special lottery draws. That opened the drawing for the No. 1 pick to all clubs eliminated in the postseason's bubbled qualifying round.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/cropped_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/w220xh124_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/w320xh180_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/w640xh360_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/w768xh432_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790044/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1278870937.jpg?ts=1749722105 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Stobe / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Prospects wore suits to watch from the couch as the draft aired from NHL Network's New Jersey studio. The late "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek, a University of Ottawa graduate, announced Stutzle's selection. Overage forward Yegor Chinakhov was asleep in Moscow when the Blue Jackets grabbed him at No. 21, flabbergasting TV analysts who had to scramble to find his information.</p><p>The group has come a long way. Sanderson, Faber, Lundell, Raymond, Stutzle, and Peterka are shoo-ins for their countries' 2026 Olympic rosters, and Jarvis has a shot to represent Canada in Italy.</p><p>Certain peers seem ready for larger roles.</p><p>Goalies drafted far apart in 2020 - Yaroslav Askarov (No. 11) and Devon Levi (No. 212) - are AHL standouts who itch to start for the Sharks and Sabres. Call-ups Leevi Merilainen of Ottawa and Jakub Dobes of Montreal provided stretches of heroic netminding in 2024-25. Stashed in Russia for five years, KHL prodigy Alexander Nikishin finally crossed the pond to join Carolina and projects to be a dominant physical force.</p><p>This year's draft has one stud defenseman, consensus top prospect Matthew Schaefer, and is heavy on potential impact forwards. Each class charts its own path, but more than any other in recent memory, 2020 set a standard for these newcomers to pursue.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31548504/related

How the NHL's 2020 draft class took a major leap

Following the Memorial Cup and scouting combine, theScore's Kyle Cushman, Nick Faris, John Matisz...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31523727/related

NHL mock draft: Mammoth surprise shakes up the board

The 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft will fill out the rosters for Seattle and Vancouver, but each team ...

<p>The 2025 PWHL Expansion Draft will fill out the rosters for Seattle and Vancouver, but each team already has a foundation. The 10 players inked during the league's exclusive signing window are officially the first faces of the new franchises.</p><p>"I'm extremely excited about the opportunity for pro hockey in Seattle," said forward Hilary Knight. "I'd like to think that we do things right when we bet on ourselves. … I think this is another one of those organizations that's going to be extremely successful."</p><p>Knight is one of five players signed by Seattle, joining Alex Carpenter, Danielle Serdachny, Cayla Barnes, and Corinne Schroeder in setting the tone for a team and city making its PWHL debut.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New Vancouver players spoke about building both culture and identity from the ground up. "I really see us being a fast, very competitive group who works every single day to push each other to be the best possible players that we can be," said inaugural signee Sarah Nurse.</p><p>"We have a lot of work ethic, a lot of talent, a lot of skill, and a lot of heart in this group already." Nurse joins Jennifer Gardiner, Sophie Jaques, Claire Thompson, and Emerance Maschmeyer as the first names on Vancouver's roster.</p><p>With the cornerstones in place, attention now turns to who these teams could add next and which unprotected players will become key building blocks.</p><p>The following are our projected 12-player rosters for each club and what we consider some of the toughest decisions GMs will face when Monday's draft gets underway.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle's mock roster" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-uYLLz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/uYLLz/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="491" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Seattle pillaged elite talent in the signing window and already gave itself the option to ice a filthy top line. Carpenter could center Knight, an MVP finalist, and Serdachny, the 2024 second overall pick. On the back end, the smooth Barnes and unflappable Schroeder are budding stars at their positions.</p><p>Salary cap constraints prevent expansion teams from overloading on high-end big earners, so we expect general manager Meghan Turner to target youth, championship pedigree, and more netminding.</p><p>Carpenter and Knight could leave as free agents as early as next summer, but scoring forward Hannah Bilka - Boston's top draft choice in 2024 - can be a centerpiece for years. Brooke McQuigge and Grace Zumwinkle brought power and finishing touch to Minnesota's latest Walter Cup team. The right-shooting Ashton Bell played a leading defensive role as Ottawa surged to the final.</p><p>We think Turner, Boston's former assistant GM, will swipe all four skaters lost by the Fleet. That group includes Daniela Pejsova, whose six years of pro experience in Sweden mask the fact that she's one of the league's youngest players.</p><p>And we see New York paying the price for declining to protect a goalie. Seattle winds up with Schroeder and backup Kayle Osborne, whose combined save percentage for the Sirens last season was .918.</p><p>Second-line center is a void to fill in the June 24 entry draft or free agency. - <em>Nick Faris</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Vancouver's mock roster" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-cRwyD" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cRwyD/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="491" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Vancouver came up big in the signing window, landing a veteran goaltending talent in Maschmeyer and a veritable star and goal-scorer in Nurse, who can hold the team to high standards and use her profile to build a fan base. Similarly, Gardiner hails from Surrey, B.C., and can give the local fans a homegrown talent to root for. Canadian Olympian Emma Maltais could round out Vancouver's top line with her aggressive and relentless approach.</p><p>Although the PWHLPA voted to make salaries transparent, that move hasn't taken effect. Still, we can be sure that Vancouver's early signees will take up the lion's share of the cap space, which might leave GM Cara Gardner Morey looking for a bargain to fill in the depth and defense.</p><p>That's where upcoming talent could prove valuable for Vancouver. Former Patty Kazmaier winner Izzy Daniel, coming off an impressive rookie year in Toronto, would have the potential to move up and down the lineup, contributing minutes to the top line when needed or strengthening Vancouver's depth.</p><p>Defensively, Vancouver already has incredible anchors in Jaques and Thompson, but the club has to properly build around them to avoid squandering such a coup. Toronto's Megan Carter immediately comes to mind as someone who can take care of the puck and pair with either top defender, providing that extra layer of focus.</p><p>Ottawa's Aneta Tejralova would also be a solid choice for the same reasons. Her versatility allows her to excel in various situations, and she can absorb big minutes. The same goes for Anna Wilgren, who can play a disciplined game while complementing the style of a puck-moving defender.</p><p>Vancouver can add a No. 2 goalie through free agency or in the entry draft. <em>-Jolene Latimer</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Mock expansion fallout" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iaact" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iaact/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="825" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Jolene Latimer and Nick Faris cover the PWHL for theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31500047/related

Projecting the PWHL expansion draft

Many Connor McDavid stats sound outrageous and defy belief. One of those stats spread online ahea...

<p>Many Connor McDavid stats sound outrageous and defy belief. One of those stats spread online ahead of his return to the Stanley Cup Final: He's tallied multiple points in a majority of his career playoff games.</p><p>McDavid's dominant multi-point efforts (47) outnumber his one-point games (24) and quiet scoreless outings (20) through the start of the championship series, which opened Wednesday with a 4-3 Oilers overtime win. Edmonton's captain constantly finds a way to produce when he faces strong teams, tenacious defenders hound him, millions of fans tune in, and glory's attainable.</p><p>Being able to score at will in the playoffs helped him shoot up the career leaderboard. McDavid's about to rocket into the all-time top 30, reserved for players with over 150 points, in fewer than 100 appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The awesome ratio reflects he's one of one. He could erupt and only require a little help to deliver the Oilers' first Cup since the Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier years.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Career playoff scoring" aria-label="Scatter Plot" id="datawrapper-chart-Zs4H1" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Zs4H1/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="491" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Numbers on a page are static, but the history at McDavid's fingertips is living and breathing. He grasped it earlier this year with his golden 4 Nations Face-Off winner. He battled through Roope Hintz's desperate backcheck for a series-clinching breakaway goal in the conference finals that stole the Dallas Stars' momentum and sucked the air out of a hostile building.</p><p>Wednesday's dramatic first clash with the Florida Panthers was one of those rare subdued nights for McDavid - for about 45 minutes. He snuck the game-tying assist over several sticks into Mattias Ekholm's wheelhouse in the third period. After gaining the zone in overtime at his usual warp speed, he saucered a similar feed to Leon Draisaitl to complete a beautiful passing sequence started by Corey Perry.</p><p>Game 1 was tense but highly positive for the Oilers. With Ekholm's goal, they became the third NHL team this century and ninth overall with 20 different playoff scorers, according to <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/78ZUk">Stathead</a>. They quadrupled their scoring total from Games 1-2 of last year's Cup Final while cementing their third multi-goal comeback win, the most in any postseason since 2020.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/cropped_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789021/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218692833.jpg?ts=1749138119 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Codie McLachlan / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>McDavid's menacing moments excited the home crowd. He led Oilers forwards in penalty-killing ice time and almost made the most of the assignment when he rung the crossbar on a shorthanded rush. Later, he strolled from the corner to the net and nearly flipped the puck over the shrugged shoulder of Sergei Bobrovsky, whose 42 saves went to waste.</p><p>He set up Ekholm at the end of a lengthy shift by staying on the ice for longer than Aleksander Barkov, McDavid's Selke Trophy-winning shadow, who went to the bench and watched him walk around lesser defensive forwards. McDavid's assists offset a pair of goals from Florida center Sam Bennett, a childhood friend who's emerged as the postseason's top sniper and chief nuisance.</p><p>As a result, the Oilers won't trail 3-0 like last year and don't face an immediate series deficit. Weak defensive efforts led to Game 1 losses against the Kings and Stars. Gaining control of this matchup forces Florida to demand more offense from Barkov's line along with stingier play from Aaron Ekblad and Gustav Forsling, who uncharacteristically left shooters open on Edmonton's first two goals.</p><p>There are huge milestones in McDavid's future. He's eligible to sign a record extension with the Oilers on July 1 or walk to unrestricted free agency next summer. The 4 Nations deliciously teased McDavid's Olympic debut, which is coming in 2026 and should be an unforgettable spectacle.</p><p>Winning the Cup is the current mission. McDavid <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295512" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295512">downplayed</a> his journey's similarities to those of Gretzky and Sidney Crosby, but the comparison is irresistible: Both Canadian legends won their first championship in a rematch with a powerful rival. If history repeats itself, McDavid won't be denied.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31476085/related

Connor McDavid has history at his fingertips

Two new teams. Two new GMs. And just days to make some of the biggest decisions of their careers....

<p>Two new teams. Two new GMs. And just days to make some of the biggest decisions of their careers. </p><p>With the PWHL's expansion signing window now open and the draft looming, newly appointed general managers Meghan Turner (Seattle) and Cara Gardner Morey (Vancouver) are building full rosters from scratch. They're tasked with signing players, evaluating protection lists, and setting the foundation of their franchises. Both were hired after a competitive process that drew more than 200 applicants per market, according to the league.</p><p>Turner, who was previously the assistant GM of the Boston Fleet, called Seattle's roster build a "puzzle."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"There are obviously different roles for different players on the team," Turner said. "As I'm building out this roster, I’m obviously looking to establish a good leadership group but then also making sure that that we're getting people and players to buy into what the organization is all about from a cultural perspective."</p><p>Vancouver's Gardner Morey is looking for a high-intensity group that can open the season strong: "I envision a team that plays with speed, has a ton of skill, loves the physicality, and, again, is competing right off Day 1," she said. "I am really impressed with the way the expansion draft has been created so that we can have a competitive roster right off the bat."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Expansion dates" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-JtqWv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JtqWv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3295195" href="https://thescore.com/news/3295195">Protection lists</a> from the six inaugural franchises are now public, meaning the path to icing a team is clearer, but no less complex. Turner and Gardner Morey have a tight window to evaluate who's available and make their additions count in a league where competitive depth is already razor-thin.</p><p>From Olympic stars to under-the-radar glue players, there's no shortage of intriguing options. Here are a dozen potential targets who could help define the identities of PWHL Seattle and Vancouver.</p><h2>Unprotected players</h2><h3>Hilary Knight, Fleet forward</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/cropped_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788693/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200619909.jpg?ts=1748969633 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Graessle / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Knight signed with Seattle. </em></p><p>Scooping Knight in the expansion process would be a coup for a team with a win-now mindset. The Fleet and Team USA captain is a finalist in the league's MVP race for good reason. An offensive powerhouse, Knight was Boston's top scorer in 2024-25 and tied rookie Sarah Fillier for the league lead with 29 points. If anyone can navigate the change of being uprooted and provide veteran leadership for a new team, it's Knight.</p><p>The only drawback is that Knight's already announced the 2026 Olympics will be her last. She'll be 36 years old when the puck drops next season, and a full retirement from hockey seems close.</p><p>But for a team that's OK with a short but sweet journey with Knight, she'd make a massive impact. Considering Seattle's Turner has Boston in common with Knight after working in the Fleet's front office, it would make sense if Knight ended up in the Emerald City. <em>- Jolene Latimer</em></p><h3>Alex Carpenter, Sirens forward</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/cropped_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788694/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191790779.jpg?ts=1748969829 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Graessle / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Carpenter signed with Seattle.</em></p><p>Carpenter's offensive prowess made her a near-lock for the Sirens' protected list. Exposing her must have been a difficult choice, but she'll be an easy yes for either Seattle or Vancouver.</p><p>The 31-year-old was a major contributor on New York's first line with Fillier and Jessie Eldridge, helping Fillier find her footing as a rookie and adding 20 points herself this season despite a jaw injury that required surgery and kept her out of the lineup for weeks.</p><p>Not only that, but her experience as a two-time Olympic silver medalist for the United States gives her deep experience to draw from in the locker room. The Boston College graduate also has many world championships under her belt and led the 2024 tournament in goals (six) and points (10). - <em>Latimer</em></p><h3>Sarah Nurse, Sceptres forward</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/cropped_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788003/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191133229.jpg?ts=1748967508 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Chisholm / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Nurse signed with Vancouver. </em></p><p>Nurse is one of the most recognizable faces in women's hockey, known for her speed, scoring touch, and game-breaking ability when at her best. A key figure in Canada's golden run at the 2022 Winter Games, she's been a leader in growing the sport's visibility - both as a cultural ambassador and on the ice.</p><p>In Toronto's second season, however, Nurse struggled to find that same impact. She was limited by injury and never quite looked herself, finishing with a modest 14 points in 21 games. She wasn't as consistent an offensive presence as fans are used to.</p><p>Still, her ceiling remains high. When healthy, the 30-year-old can shift momentum in a single rush. Even in a down year, her ability to draw defenders and create chances for others showed flashes. Though she's a Toronto native, Nurse's brand seems intricately linked to Canada. She'd be a strong fit for Vancouver if it wants star power to draw fans.<em> - Latimer </em></p><h3>Erin Ambrose, Victoire defender</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/cropped_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788734/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188644227.jpg?ts=1748979727 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Troy Parla / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Montreal retained Ambrose with its fourth protection slot.</em></p><p>Ambrose is one of the PWHL's premier two-way defenders, known for her sharp hockey IQ, crisp outlet passes, and leadership on and off the ice. A consistent presence on Canada's national team, Ambrose brings poise under pressure and quarterbacking ability on the power play.</p><p>In 2024, she earned the league's award for top defender. This past season with Montreal, the 31-year-old logged heavy minutes in all situations and continued to be a steady contributor despite struggling offensively at times. Whether shutting down top lines or starting the breakout, Ambrose plays with the kind of control and confidence that make her a cornerstone for club and country. <em>- Latimer</em></p><h3>Sophie Jaques and Claire Thompson, Frost defenders</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/cropped_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788697/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216616161.jpg?ts=1748970068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Bettcher / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Jaques and Thompson signed with Vancouver.</em></p><p>Stacked teams have the most to lose in the expansion process. Minnesota accepted this reality by exposing two of the sport's best young, offensively inclined defenders.</p><p>Jaques and Thompson combined for 40 points in the regular season, flanked Toronto star Renata Fast at the top of the defender scoring leaderboard, and upped their production during the Frost's second straight championship run. Both are available because teammate Lee Stecklein, a consummate shutdown blue-liner, popped off in the playoffs with a league-high four goals and eight points.</p><p>Notably, Gardner Morey was Thompson's college coach and gave her the captaincy at Princeton. - <em>Nick Faris</em></p><h3>Emerance Maschmeyer, Charge goaltender</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/cropped_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/w220xh124_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/w320xh180_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/w640xh360_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/w768xh432_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768598/w1080xh607_CREDIT_PWHL_-_OTT_at_TOR-_FEB_1__2025_01.jpg?ts=1748970632 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Professional Women's Hockey League</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Note: Maschmeyer signed with Vancouver. </em></p><p>Maschmeyer is one of the league's most reliable goaltenders, anchoring Ottawa with calm, composed play. She has a career .914 save percentage and is second in games played among PWHL goalies despite being injured halfway through the 2024-25 season, moments after she received a standing ovation for making her 1,000th career save.</p><p>Once healthy, she'll be an excellent backstop for either expansion team. Given the 30-year-old's track record as a Canadian Olympian, she may be a better fit in Vancouver. <em>- Latimer</em></p><h2>Unrestricted free agents</h2><h3>Hannah Miller, Sceptres forward</h3><p>Miller, a 29-year-old Vancouver native, perfectly timed her breakout year. She leveled up as an offensive threat and tied for the PWHL lead in power-play points (13) while often centering Toronto's top line.</p><p>Miller's local roots and ability to shoulder a scoring load make her a logical foundational signing for Gardner Morey. A quirk of her globetrotting professional journey - Miller was a naturalized Olympian for China and played there until 2023 - stopped her from representing Canada at this year's world championships, but she's eligible for the next Olympic roster. - <em>Faris</em></p><h3>Michela Cava, Frost forward</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/cropped_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216382843.jpg?ts=1748970351 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Troy Parla / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Wherever Cava goes, winning follows. The two-time Walter Cup champion previously celebrated league titles in the defunct Premier Hockey Federation in 2023, in the Russian league in 2022, and in Sweden in 2021. Her pro career is dynastic.</p><p>The feisty 31-year-old from Ontario is an efficient shooter and a great complementary talent.</p><p>Cava's the leading goal-scorer in PWHL playoff history. She's bagged the most goals in the regular season among players with no international experience. Headlining an expansion lineup would test her unbroken championship streak, but she's earned the opportunity. - <em>Faris</em></p><h3>Maddie Rooney, Frost goaltender</h3><p>Rooney is the most accomplished goalie available. Part of a championship tandem in Minnesota, she made more starts than Nicole Hensley over the past two seasons and was the closest thing to unbeatable in the 2025 Walter Cup triumph.</p><p>Rock solid in Games 2-4 of the final, Rooney stoned 105 of Ottawa's 108 shots (.972 save percentage) and won three overtime decisions to narrowly outduel Charge rookie Gwyneth Philips, the postseason MVP.</p><p>On the world stage, Rooney's 11 career starts for the U.S. produced four shutouts and a thrilling Olympic gold-medal victory in 2018. She's squarely in her prime at 27 and dazzles when the lights brighten. - <em>Faris</em></p><h3>Tereza Vanisova, Charge forward</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/cropped_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788701/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212579683.jpg?ts=1748970527 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Troy Parla / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Vanisova is an irksome, effective pest and clinical finisher whose 15 goals for the Charge in 2024-25 tied for second in the league.</p><p>She leads all skaters in career penalty minutes, dropped the gloves in the first PWHL fight, has been fined twice for boarding, and took a costly tripping minor that changed the momentum of the Walter Cup final. She also forced overtime in the series finale by tiptoeing to the slot for a one-timer that busted Rooney's shutout.</p><p>The 29-year-old Czech winger's offensive attributes counterbalance her bouts of recklessness. - <em>Faris</em></p><h3>Kati Tabin, Victoire defender</h3><p>Tabin's a 28-year-old, physical shot-blocker who can score from the point and elevate a second pair. Exactly a year apart, on May 11, 2024 and 2025, she skated for well over 50 minutes in the PWHL's longest playoff games. Only Ambrose logged more ice time for Montreal in each marathon.</p><p>Because of the signing window's unique calculus, adding a veteran of Tabin's caliber would benefit her new and former teams. If Tabin and a Montreal teammate sign out west, the Victoire could then use a fourth protection slot to prevent Ambrose or fellow top defender Cayla Barnes from being drafted. - <em>Faris</em></p><p><em>Nick Faris and Jolene Latimer cover the PWHL for theScore.</em></p>

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12 top talents who could boost PWHL expansion teams

The Oilers and Panthers are about to clash in another Stanley Cup Final. Their original matchup w...

<p><em>The Oilers and Panthers are about to clash in another Stanley Cup Final. Their original matchup was thrilling. The sequel promises to be a classic. These questions will decide if Edmonton triumphs or Florida keeps the crown:</em></p><h3>Can Draisaitl make an emphatic impact?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/cropped_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788454/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217547389.jpg?ts=1748829437 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Devlin / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl form a peerless 1-2 punch. Their incredible offensive feats blow open games and tilt close matchups. The German second-line center constantly enhances his reputation as a playoff performer and two-way beast.</p><p>Last year’s Cup Final was a rare exception: Hand and rib injuries muted Draisaitl’s influence, and he was held to three assists. Forced to carry Edmonton, McDavid won the Conn Smythe Trophy in defeat.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 McDrai's scoring by round" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-cEa5x" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cEa5x/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="340" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Oilers avoided a humbling sweep and almost clinched their first championship since 1990 with a hobbled Draisaitl. Now, he's healthy, comparatively fresh, and raring to dominate. Because of Edmonton's efficient romp through the Western Conference, Draisaitl played two fewer games and 37 fewer minutes from Rounds 1-3 than he did last year.</p><p>The Oilers are opening a series at home - and would host a potential Game 7 - for the first time since Round 1 in 2024. They'll own last change and can aim to build momentum at a frenzied Rogers Place before heading to Sunrise. That segment of the series won't faze Draisaitl - he's the postseason leader with 14 road points and bagged most of his goals in the regular season (28 of 52) on enemy ice.</p><h3>How do blue lines handle divergent attacks?</h3><p>Both teams have deeper rosters compared to last year, and it shows.</p><p>The Oilers are the playoffs' top offensive squad, ranking first in goals for (4.06 per game) and expected GF (4.05), according to Sportlogiq. The Panthers are tops at defending - first in goals against (2.29) and expected GA (2.52).</p><p>Edmonton, with its 8.4 scoring chances generated off the rush per game, can skate you out of the building. McDavid, alone, has been credited with a whopping 29 rush chances (Draisaitl is tied with Toronto's William Nylander for second with 17). Florida defensemen can't afford loose gaps, especially in the neutral zone.</p><p>The Panthers are a well-oiled forechecking machine that can grind you down. They're elite at disrupting best-laid plans of the defenseman retrieving dump-ins deep in the zone. The first forechecker lays the body as Florida's other skaters stealthily set up behind him to choke off potential breakout opportunities. Oilers blue-liners must be quick and decisive with the puck.</p><h3>Which second-tier forward stays hot?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/cropped_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/w220xh124_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/w320xh180_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/w640xh360_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/w768xh432_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788054/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2156789017.jpg?ts=1748626514 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dave Sandford / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Each team boasts bona fide star forwards in McDavid and Draisaitl, and Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart. A rung below - in the overflowing second tier of the forward groups - is an intriguing battle of red-hot players.</p><p>Florida's Sam Bennett leads the postseason with 10 goals and has recorded at least one point in 12 of 17 games. The 29-year-old center always elevates his play in the spring - his career points per game rate jumps from 0.49 in the regular season to 0.71 in the playoffs.</p><p>Bennett makes his living around the blue paint. Proof: His 19 inner-slot shots rank second to McDavid, plus he accidentally/purposefully delivered an elbow to the head of the opposing goalie in Rounds 2 and 3. A pending unrestricted free agent, Bennett could be playing his final games in a Panthers uniform.</p><p>Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is Edmonton's indispensable supporting piece. The plain but effective winger also produces better in the playoffs (0.88 career points per game compared to 0.78 in the regular season). The pressure's on him to continue to cook alongside McDavid and Corey Perry, with another second-tier guy, sniping winger Zach Hyman, out for the series due to injury.</p><p>Nugent-Hopkins, the longest-serving Oiler, is fourth in playoff scoring with 18 points (half of which were collected in the conference final) and third among Oilers forwards in ice time, thanks to heavy special-teams usage.</p><h3>Can Skinner keep up with Bobrovsky?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/cropped_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/w220xh124_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/w320xh180_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/w640xh360_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/w768xh432_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788070/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2159166573.jpg?ts=1748633105 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bruce Bennett / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>At one end is a future Hall of Famer with a Stanley Cup, two Vezina Trophies, and a .935 save percentage (including two shutouts) in the Panthers' past 10 games.</p><p>At the other is a wildly inconsistent netminder who was demoted to the Oilers' backup role midway through the first round. He returned to the crease in Round 2 after his partner was injured and posted a .944 save percentage (including three shutouts) in the Oilers' last seven games.</p><p>Sergei Bobrovsky versus Stuart Skinner is a battle of goalies with different backgrounds who are similarly dialed in entering the Cup Final. The edge still goes to Bobrovsky for his well-rounded skill set, track record, and veteran savvy. But, if Skinner can keep up, Edmonton will be in good shape overall.</p><h3>Is Edmonton's PK a liability?</h3><p>A year ago, the Oilers' impenetrable penalty kill allowed one power-play goal - Evan Rodrigues' deflection early in the final - over its last 17 playoff games. This year, Edmonton's been scored on in droves and enters the rematch with the worst kill rate in history (66%) for a Cup finalist.</p><p>Prone to slow starts, the PK gave up five multi-goal efforts within the first three games of the Kings, Golden Knights, and Stars series. Dallas almost rallied to tie Game 5 of the conference final after its power play's rapid lateral puck movement freed Roope Hintz, who stood alone at the hash marks, to roof a shot over Skinner.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🚨 Goals by game state" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8O6WJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8O6WJ/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Florida's as dominant as Edmonton at five-on-five and zaps more man advantages. With an excellent 87.9% kill rate, the Panthers have let in nine fewer power-play goals despite lacking discipline and going down shorthanded 3.41 times per game (Oilers are at 2.94).</p><p>At the other end, Matthew Tkachuk's eight power-play points - he's one shy of Draisaitl's league lead - reflect how he can strain a defense from the goal-line area and overwhelm goalies with tips, quick releases, and nice feeds.</p><h3>Are Florida's leads safe?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/cropped_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788068/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216998185.jpg?ts=1748632050 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eliot J. Schechter / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>If the Panthers are up at intermission, they're winning the game.</p><p>That's what the past three postseasons have taught us about the Paul Maurice-coached club. Florida is 20-0 overall and 7-0 in the 2025 playoffs when leading after 20 minutes and 29-0 and 10-0, respectively, when leading after 40.</p><p>The Panthers are a stout defensive team with a calm, big-game goalie. They're never satisfied offensively, either, pushing constantly to fatten leads.</p><p>However, if one team's suited to reverse this mystifying game script trend, it's the Oilers. Edmonton's armed with the biggest game-breakers on the planet in McDavid and Draisaitl. Each guy can single-handedly take over a game in its late stages like prime Steph Curry. Together, the odds increase exponentially.</p><p>The Oilers have been credited with six comeback victories this postseason and famously nearly came back from a 3-0 series deficit in last year's final.</p><h3>What did Oilers learn from 2024?</h3><p>When the NHL expanded beyond six teams, repeat Cup Finals became a rarity. Oilers versus Panthers is the fifth immediate rematch to occur in the modern era. It's the first since Sidney Crosby's championship breakthrough.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="✌️ Cup Final rematches" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-d6SVh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/d6SVh/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Early rematches involved famous dynasties. Canadiens juggernauts outclassed the expansion Blues and post-Bobby Orr Bruins. The last stand of the invincible Islanders delayed Wayne Gretzky's ascent to the mountaintop and his own prolonged reign.</p><p>Crosby's youthful Penguins teams were big underdogs, but they slayed the 2009 Red Wings by protecting home ice and their own net.</p><p>For these Oilers to exact revenge, their offense needs to strike in the coming days. Edmonton failed to set the tone in last year's final, only scored twice over the first eight periods, and almost ran out of time to find Bobrovsky's weak spots and mount a miraculous turnaround.</p><p><em>John Matisz and Nick Faris cover the NHL for theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31458324/related

7 Oilers-Panthers questions that'll swing Stanley Cup rematch

Each original PWHL franchise is about to lose a couple of cornerstone players because of the leag...

<p>Each original PWHL franchise is about to lose a couple of cornerstone players because of the league's strict expansion rules.</p><p>Here's how it works: Teams initially get to shield three top talents from being taken by Seattle or Vancouver. Once a club sacrifices two players in the expansion process, it can add a fourth to the protection list. Some marquee names will lead the West Coast entrants into battle and help them be competitive as soon as the puck drops in 2025-26.</p><p>Expansion will reshape the league in two phases. Both Seattle and Vancouver can sign up to five unprotected players or pending unrestricted free agents during this week's exclusive negotiating window. Then they'll select as many players as needed in a subsequent draft to build 12-women initial rosters. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Key PWHL dates" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jXQIc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jXQIc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The exercise is going to rattle the six original markets. All have to part with four players from their 2024-25 lineups. General managers face painful dilemmas: Which stars should they protect, and who should they reluctantly risk losing? </p><p>Some choices are automatic. It'd be unthinkable for the Montreal Victoire to expose Marie-Philip Poulin, a living legend and MVP finalist, or Ann-Renee Desbiens, the world's best goaltender. Offensive dynamos Sarah Fillier and Alex Carpenter are guaranteed to stick with the last-place New York Sirens. </p><p>All sides have big decisions and impossible choices to make slightly lower down the depth chart. Below, we list each team's top eligible protection candidates and assess their options ahead of Tuesday's deadline, in order of regular-season finish.</p><h3>Montreal Victoire</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/cropped_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788048/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212566219.jpg?ts=1748624019 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Troy Parla / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Stumbling in the playoffs, the powerhouse Victoire have been upset in two straight opening rounds. Seattle and Vancouver could raid the embarrassment of riches at the top of their lineup. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Montreal Victoire PL" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9ptTP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9ptTP/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Poulin, Cayla Barnes, and Desbiens. Protecting a top center, young No. 1 defender, and lockdown netminder safeguards the spine of a Walter Cup championship contender.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Barnes over Erin Ambrose and Laura Stacey. Barnes is a seasoned Olympian and 2024 first-round draft pick whose puck-moving prowess complements her complete defensive game. At 26 years old, she can anchor a blue line for the next decade. </p><p>Ambrose was the PWHL's Defender of the Year in the inaugural '24 season. She drives offense, munches major minutes, and shoots right like Barnes, but she's five years older and the twilight of her prime is somewhat foreseeable. </p><p>It's bold to expose Stacey, the powerful and relentless winger who's married to Poulin and completes the PWHL's premier scoring duo. Stacey's 40 points over two seasons rank fourth in the league's growing history book. But GM Daniele Sauvageau shouldn't put two elite defenders on the block, and the expansion teams may steer clear of Stacey as a one-year rental if they assume she'll promptly return to Montreal.</p><p>The Victoire will probably lose Jennifer Gardiner, the breakout rookie from the Vancouver area who bagged 18 points this season while riding shotgun with Poulin and Stacey. In their best-case scenario, Gardiner and a depth player leave during the signing window. That would activate Sauvageau's fourth protection slot and let her save Stacey from the draft. <em>- Nick Faris </em></p><h3>Toronto Sceptres</h3><p>Key injuries lowered the Sceptres' ceiling this season. They entered the playoffs on a cold streak, and the collapse of their goaltending and defensive structure stopped a potential championship run. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Toronto Sceptres PL" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qiHFY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qiHFY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Renata Fast, Emma Maltais, and Daryl Watts. Fast is a sublime all-around defender. Expansion GMs would race to snap up the agitating Maltais or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3235098" href="https://thescore.com/news/3235098">slick Watts</a>, two forwards with scoring touch in their mid-20s.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Maltais over Julia Gosling, Sarah Nurse, and Blayre Turnbull. These four Team Canada mainstays were Toronto's centers in the playoffs. They're different ages, possess varied skill sets, and are worth protecting for assorted reasons.</p><p>A two-goal effort from Gosling, the hotshot rookie with significant upside, led the Sceptres to their only postseason win. Maltais skates in all situations and paced the team with four playoff points. The 30-year-old Nurse weathered a quiet, injury-plagued year, but she's a face of the league and supplies offensive flash. Opponents hate facing Turnbull, Toronto's 31-year-old captain and a dogged, intelligent checker. </p><p>Pending free agent Hannah Miller - Toronto's second-leading scorer after Watts - seems destined to sign in Vancouver, her hometown. GM Gina Kingsbury could ultimately protect Fast and three forwards, or she may shield Kristen Campbell to maintain continuity in net, but Campbell was shelled in the PWHL semifinals, plays at a deep position, and seems relatively expendable. <em>- Faris</em></p><h3>Ottawa Charge</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/cropped_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788049/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216176744.jpg?ts=1748624239 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Bettcher / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Charge put together a gutsy playoff run to cap last season, becoming the first Canadian team to reach the Walter Cup final and pushing every game to overtime before falling to Minnesota in four games. With rookie goaltender Gwyneth Philips earning playoff MVP honors and the core showing true contender mettle, Ottawa's likely looking to retain key pieces and turn its near-miss heartbreak into a championship breakthrough next season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Ottawa Charge PL" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-HbZs0" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/HbZs0/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Philips, Emily Clark, and Ashton Bell. Philips established herself as a franchise goaltender in her rookie season and the team can lean on her moving forward. Meanwhile, Clark's one of the team's most reliable offensive weapons, with 19 points in the regular season and five in the playoffs. Bell's the Charge's best chance at retaining a defender they can build around.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Exposing goalie Emerance Maschmeyer is a move that would have probably been unthinkable months ago. But when she went down with a lower-body injury in March, Philips took over the crease and proved she's a No. 1 goalie. Her performance caught the attention of the entire league, and Philips was named playoffs MVP despite Ottawa's losing effort.</p><p>The two are at different stages of their careers. Maschmeyer will be 31 next season, while Philips turns 25 in September and is heading into her sophomore year with plenty of development ahead of her. As emotional as it'll be to let a key piece like Maschmeyer go, it makes sense for the Charge to stick with a young star with lots of runway ahead of her. <em>- Jolene Latimer </em></p><h3>Minnesota Frost</h3><p>The Frost pulled off back-to-back Walter Cup titles with trademark resilience, sneaking into the playoffs as the fourth seed both years and this season winning multiple overtime thrillers to edge Ottawa out of the final. Minnesota heads into the expansion draft looking to preserve its identity and roster while cementing its status as the league's first dynasty.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Minnesota Frost PL" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-7Mxac" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/7Mxac/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Taylor Heise, Sophie Jaques, and Kendall Coyne Schofield. Heise was the PWHL's first overall draft pick in its inaugural draft and has since become an irreplaceable superstar. Jaques is one of the league's leading defenders and the team can build around her if it loses Claire Thompson. Meanwhile, captain Coyne Schofield's a veteran who can steady the team as it adjusts to what will surely be major changes to its championship roster.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Leaving Lee Stecklein exposed seems cold, given her veteran locker-room demeanor and outstanding playoff performance. She's been a cornerstone of the Frost's blue line - steady, smart, and reliable in all situations. She also brings invaluable experience as a two-time Walter Cup champion and an Olympic veteran. Stecklein anchors the team's defensive identity and losing her would mean parting with not just shutdown ability but a calm, offensive-minded defender who can set the tone in big moments.</p><p>That said, protecting Jaques over Stecklein is a strategic bet on the future. While Stecklein offers steady leadership, Jaques is younger, more dynamic, and represents the kind of high-ceiling talent teams build around in a fast-evolving league.</p><p>You can argue the PWHL has a league-wide win-now mentality, but I think protecting Jaques allows the Frost to do both: win now and build the future. <em>- Latimer </em></p><h3>Boston Fleet</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/cropped_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/788050/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200040617.jpg?ts=1748624408 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Meyer / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Fleet's season ended in heartbreak: they were blown out 8-1 by Minnesota when all they needed was a single point to clinch a playoff spot. Boston needs more consistency in high-stakes moments and will need to recalibrate its roster without losing the high-end skill and leadership that made it competitive throughout the year.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Boston Fleet PL" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ukW18" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ukW18/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Aerin Frankel, Hilary Knight, and Megan Keller. Protecting Frankel is a no-brainer - she's Team USA's starting goalie, virtually unstoppable when she's healthy, and is invaluable with the league relying so heavily on goaltending. Knight provides veteran leadership in addition to being Boston's points leader by a long shot. Keller anchors the blue line; she's a poised, two-way defender who logs big minutes in every situation, and is strong enough to build a defensive core around should other key components be lost.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Protecting Knight over younger top forwards like Hannah Bilka or Alina Muller is a bit of a quandary. Knight is captain of both the Fleet and Team USA, and exposing her would seem drastic. However, Keller's also a strong leader and could flourish with the captaincy, so there wouldn't be a leadership vacuum in Knight's absence.</p><p>Knight's 35 and already announced the 2026 Winter Olympics will be her last. Strategically, it could be smart to leave her unprotected, and Vancouver and Seattle may pass as she'll likely be a one-season rental.</p><p>That said, Knight was the league's regular-season scoring leader with 29 points. Her offensive firepower may prove too tempting in the PWHL's win-now environment, and she'd be a significant loss for Boston. It's probably better to protect her and lose one of the younger forwards, while using the fourth spot to protect the second and hope the offensive-minded defenders pitch in on scoring. <em>- Latimer</em></p><h3>New York Sirens</h3><p>The Sirens are the only PWHL franchise to never reach the postseason. They risk being leapfrogged by Seattle and Vancouver as the expansion process depletes a thin roster.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Ottawa Charge PL (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DlHu1" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DlHu1/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>3 players to protect</strong>: Alex Carpenter, Sarah Fillier, and Ella Shelton. Fillier, the Rookie of the Year lock who tied for the league points lead, is a restricted free agent with the right to leave New York in the summer of 2026. Convincing Fillier to stay and laying the groundwork to contend begins with keeping her and Carpenter linked on the first line.</p><p><strong>Toughest decision</strong>: Shelton over Corinne Schroeder. </p><p>With a .924 career save percentage against the most shots faced per game (31.1) in league history, Schroeder mitigates the Sirens' defensive shortcomings. But she'd be easier to replace than Shelton, a top defender and prolific scorer who quarterbacks a quality power play, one of New York's strengths.</p><p>Schroeder's rookie backup, Kayle Osborne, owned a .916 SV% over 10 games and could assume a larger role as part of a balanced tandem. The PWHL goalie carousel brims with proven and unsung talents who could be signed or acquired this summer to plug a hole. Drafting a top college netminder is another option for GM Pascal Daoust. </p><p>Forward Jessie Eldridge, one of the league's most improved players from Years 1 to 2, will head west unless she rounds out Daoust's protection list. <em>- Faris </em></p><p><em>Nick Faris and Jolene Latimer cover the PWHL for theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31445358/related

Expansion forces PWHL teams to make excruciating choices

The Oilers have played eight immaculate periods and would be on the verge of winning the Western ...

<p><em>The Oilers have played eight immaculate periods and would be on the verge of winning the Western Conference Final if the Stars' power play hadn't erupted in the final frame of the opener. Instead, Dallas is reeling from two big losses but could tie the series with a strong road effort Tuesday. Keep an eye on these key players in Game 4 and beyond.</em></p><p><strong>Ryan Nugent-Hopkins</strong>: Headlined by Nugent-Hopkins, the top scorer in Round 3 with seven points, Edmonton's talented supporting cast is breaking out. The former first overall pick has been a loyal operative and slick passer for 14 NHL seasons. Nugent-Hopkins showcased the latter skill with increasingly nice primary assists in Game 3 to Evan Bouchard, Connor McDavid, and Zach Hyman. He's flirting with a point per game for the fourth straight postseason.</p><p><strong>Mikael Granlund</strong>: The Stars trailed Edmonton by a point in the standings when they landed Granlund from San Jose on Feb. 1. They went 8-2-1 between then and the trade deadline and secured home ice for this eventual matchup before Mikko Rantanen even arrived. They can make use of that advantage if Granlund ignites a spark in Game 4. His hat trick against the Jets led to the exact sort of win - 3-1 with two power-play goals and solid goaltending - that Dallas needs again.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Leon Draisaitl</strong>: Draisaitl's influence can be striking or subtle. He's tallied a power-play point in each game against Dallas. His ability to uplift pedestrian linemates allows Hyman, McDavid, and Nugent-Hopkins to stay intact and go nuclear. Defense has been a focus for the "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner: Compared to last year's postseason, the Oilers have surrendered far fewer dangerous chances and expected goals when Draisaitl combats opposing top lines.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/cropped_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787287/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216351253.jpg?ts=1748255457 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Curtis Comeau / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Cody Ceci</strong>: Serviceable through two rounds, Ceci's being upstaged by his former team. Edmonton's outscored Dallas 5-1 in the rugged defenseman's five-on-five shifts, per Natural Stat Trick. He was unable to slow zone entries and got burned by McDavid's turbo speed and deceptive passing ahead of several goals in Games 2 and 3. The Stars targeted Ceci in the Granlund trade to play hard minutes in the top four, and his results need to improve soon.</p><p><strong>Brett Kulak</strong>: The Oilers penalty kill's gruesome 65.9% success rate is the second-worst in league history among teams that won a playoff round. Edmonton let in multiple power-play goals in three of four losses to date. Kulak was in the box for hooking rather than on the ice when Dallas started its comeback in the series opener. That said, he's second on the team in penalty-killing minutes and has been significantly more adept than Darnell Nurse at protecting the slot.</p><p><strong>Jake Oettinger</strong>: Great goalies mask deficiencies, and Oettinger helped the Stars through wobbly moments in the first couple of rounds. He dropped five decisions to the Avalanche and Jets but responded with a glimmering .929 save percentage in games after losses. Edmonton's Game 3 onslaught disrupted the trend. With Roope Hintz injured and half the team slumping, Dallas is counting on Oettinger to foil McDavid's rampant line and steal a win.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31396318/related

6 players to watch as Oilers try to race away from Stars

No greater hockey heartbreak exists than losing the Stanley Cup in seven games. Battling to erase...

<p>No greater hockey heartbreak exists than losing the Stanley Cup in seven games. Battling to erase a massive series deficit, then falling one goal short of the championship is distinctly cruel.</p><p>That was the fate of the 2024 Oilers, whose captain and scoring leader, Connor McDavid, sat in solemn silence in the visitors' dressing room in Florida as he was named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner. McDavid's 42-point postseason was supernatural. His 34 assists set a playoff record. But fatigue set in, and the Panthers muffled him in the 2-1 championship decider.</p><p>Behind-the-scenes footage showed McDavid and his dazed teammates beginning to grieve.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SB5KZMHpgIw?si=dKjTDeQHkhPaR997" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Losing the Cup is a gut punch that floors teams. Few second-place finishers rise from the canvas. Until the 2024 Panthers avenged their own crushing setback by conquering Edmonton, 15 NHL seasons had passed since a runner-up bounced back to win the next year's title.</p><p>The Oilers were the 24th team this century to lose the Cup Final, lament what-ifs, take the summer to heal, and restart the arduous journey. They're the fifth in the span that clawed back to the conference finals. Their matchup with the Stars is all square entering Sunday's Game 3.</p><p>Few of Edmonton's forerunners came close to glory again. Just two recent Cup losers promptly returned to the final, and both won it: the Panthers and Sidney Crosby's 2009 Penguins. In the mid-2010s, the Lightning and Rangers were beaten in Cup Finals and showed laudable resilience, but they proceeded to drop Game 7 of Round 3 by close scores.</p><p>It's much more common for a vanquished Cup finalist to regress, crash out of an early round, or miss the following postseason entirely.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Second place stings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ta0on" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ta0on/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Some Cup losers keep suffering grievous wounds. Six runners-up in the above table (2004 Flames, '13 Bruins, '14 Rangers, '15 Lightning, '17 Predators, '18 Golden Knights) lost a Game 7 in the next postseason. All except Nashville blew a series lead. Vegas collapsed when Cody Eakin's infamous cross-checking major led to four Sharks power-play goals and an overtime defeat.</p><p>For many teams, the year after a Cup loss is hurtful and humbling.</p><p>In the aftermath of a riot, the 2012 Canucks successfully defended the Presidents' Trophy but meekly managed one playoff win. The '08 Senators burst out of the gate with a 16-3 record, imploded, fired their head coach, barely squeaked into the playoffs, and were instantly swept. Four Cup losers that failed to qualify for the next postseason missed the cut by at least 15 points, including the '03 Hurricanes and '22 Canadiens, who plunged to last place overall.</p><p>The Oilers are the only squad in league history that went the distance in a Cup Final, lost Game 7, and rebounded to win multiple playoff series. They're a shining example of what <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3083067" href="https://thescore.com/news/3083067">digging in</a> can achieve.</p><p>These Oilers weathered a rough start to the season, middling goaltending, consequential injuries, and their lowest divisional finish (third place in the Pacific) since 2019. They lost two track meets to the Kings and trailed in nine straight playoff games but got on track with a succession of epic comebacks and back-to-back shutouts of Vegas.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/cropped_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786975/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215201671.jpg?ts=1748011645 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ethan Miller / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>McDavid and Leon Draisaitl scored at will. Plenty of depth contributors - nine Oilers entered Round 3 with at least three goals - joined the party along the way.</p><p>Edmonton's penalty kill, a problematic weakness, crumbled late in Game 1 in Dallas. Stick infractions let the Stars power play score three times on Stuart Skinner, who struggled to find the puck through traffic. But the Oilers took complete control of Game 2, scored from tips, held Dallas to one PP shot, and inched closer to Western Conference supremacy thanks to Skinner's third shutout in a four-game span.</p><p>The East's incumbent power, Florida, was overmatched as an eighth seed against Vegas in the 2023 Cup Final. Paul Maurice's scrappy group lost in five games, then morphed into a physical, swaggering, suffocating force.</p><p>The Panthers have 26 wins over the past two postseasons. A dozen were by at least three goals, including Games 5 and 7 in Toronto and Games 1-2 in Carolina. They mounted 10 comeback wins in the span and haven't lost in the playoffs since 2022 when leading after the first period. Deficits don't rattle Florida, and opponents find them insurmountable.</p><p>Winning the Cup energizes teams. Including these Panthers, 22 of this century's defending champions made the next postseason and nine got back to Round 3. They'll be the sixth repeat finalist in the bunch if they finish off the Hurricanes.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/cropped_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786976/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215841173.jpg?ts=1748011812 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Josh Lavallee / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><center><u>                    </u></center></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="History" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yeQv6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yeQv6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="684" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31375962/related

The long road back from Stanley Cup Final heartbreak

The Dallas Stars are into their third consecutive Western Conference Final. The Edmonton Oilers a...

<p><em>The Dallas Stars are into their third consecutive Western Conference Final. The Edmonton Oilers aim to repeat as conference champions. Below are some of the battles that'll shape their best-of-seven rematch beginning Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET in Texas.</em></p><h3>Fantastic Finns vs. Oilers greats</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/cropped_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786596/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214208162.jpg?ts=1747771571 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Stars wouldn't have won a round if playoff scoring leader Mikko Rantanen still played for Colorado or Carolina. Instead, they outscored the Jets 6-1 in his five-on-five minutes as the Finnish top line of Rantanen, Roope Hintz, and Mikael Granlund linked up for crucial goals. On defense, Miro Heiskanen is finally healthy to open a series and warrior Esa Lindell - one of the postseason's top shot-blockers - will be deployed to slow Connor McDavid.</p><p>That's a monstrous assignment: McDavid's exceeded a point per game in 11 straight playoff series since 2022. More than a quarter of his outings in the span (17 of 64) were three-point efforts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Almost as consistent as McDavid, Leon Draisaitl constantly flashes his elite one-timer, puck protection, passing skills, and shutdown defensive chops. Evan Bouchard's explosive production and increasingly reliable defense have softened the blow of missing Mattias Ekholm.</p><h3>Depth scoring</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/cropped_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786597/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215289563.jpg?ts=1747771667 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Leila Devlin / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Edmonton's outscored Dallas 43-34 in two fewer games played. Eight Oilers forwards have at least three goals, and head coach Kris Knoblauch spreads these weapons throughout the lineup.</p><p>The projected third line of Adam Henrique between Connor Brown and Evander Kane can produce, defend, grind, and agitate. Current fourth-liner Corey Perry is one of several wingers who can rotate onto McDavid's flank and thrive.</p><p>The Stars crave greater balance. Wyatt Johnston and breakout defenseman Thomas Harley supplement the Rantanen line's dominance with four goals apiece. But six underperforming forwards - Jamie Benn, Evgenii Dadonov, Matt Duchene, Mason Marchment, Jason Robertson, and Tyler Seguin - have combined to bury only five of 98 shots on target. None found the net against Winnipeg, and Duchene's stuck in his worst goal drought ever (17 games).</p><h3>Skinner vs. Oettinger</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/cropped_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786598/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214208443.jpg?ts=1747771788 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Some goalies run hot and cold. Stuart Skinner's either frigid or scalding. The Edmonton netminder briefly lost his starting gig for a second straight postseason, but his admirable response was to eliminate the Golden Knights with back-to-back shutouts, a career first.</p><p>Excluding Draisaitl's own goal in Game 3 against Vegas, Skinner hasn't let in a direct shot in 150 minutes, 14 seconds - the equivalent of two-and-a-half regulation matchups.</p><p>Skinner's postseason stats (.884 save percentage, 0.09 goals saved above expected) still pale next to Jake Oettinger's (.919 SV%, 10.39 GSAx as tracked by <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/stats/goalie_standard/?_inputs_&amp;std_gl_table=%22On-Ice%22&amp;std_gl_team=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_str=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_adj=%22Score%20%26%20Venue%22&amp;std_gl_range=%22Seasons%22&amp;std_gl_span=%22Playoffs%22&amp;std_gl_group=%22Team%2C%20Season%22&amp;std_gl_age1=%2217%22&amp;std_gl_age2=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_dft_yr=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_status=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_info=%22No%22&amp;std_gl_players=null&amp;std_gl_fa=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_season=%2220242025%22">Evolving-Hockey</a>). Since Oettinger took over the Dallas net in 2022, he ranks second in the NHL with 58 playoff starts and sparkled in most of those games (33 with a SV% above .920). He's built a reputation for stoning offensive powerhouses.</p><h3>Special teams</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/cropped_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786599/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215377719.jpg?ts=1747771954 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ethan Miller / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 2024 Oilers entered the conference finals with a preposterous 128.9% combined success rate on special teams. They scored on 37.5% of power plays and killed 91.4% of penalties. Staying on trend, Edmonton proceeded to blank Dallas' power play for six games and won the series despite being outscored at even strength and held to 10 shots on net in the 2-1 clincher.</p><p>This year's edge belongs to the Stars for a few reasons.</p><p>One is their own prowess (116.9% special teams success rate). Edmonton's penalty kill folded like a table against the Kings, who peppered Skinner with glorious chances, and is operating at 66.7% overall. The Oilers power play can be destructive but has only received 2.18 opportunities per game - far fewer than the Stars (3.00), Edmonton in the regular season (2.62), and Edmonton throughout the '24 playoffs (3.00).</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31348621/related

4 Oilers-Stars battles that'll decide huge rematch

NHL referees swallowed their whistles in the regular season and sent players to the box with hist...

<p>NHL referees swallowed their whistles in the regular season and sent players to the box with historic rarity. The number of power plays in the average matchup - 2.71 per team - plunged without warning.</p><p>Today's games are played at breakneck speed, but the officiating standard is pretty lenient. Refs called far more penalties in the plodding clutch-and-grab era. This season's PP attempt rate, a record low, presents a complete contrast to the obstruction crackdown that followed the 2005 lockout.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 PP attempts over time" aria-label="Column Chart" id="datawrapper-chart-dmEVr" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dmEVr/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Missed calls didn't drive this decline: The league tracks them internally and said the officials' whiff rate remained consistent over the past few years. Theories shared with <a href="https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/nhl-says-missed-call-rate-steady-even-though-power-plays-trending-down">Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli</a> at the March general managers' meetings suggested teams preached discipline this season, and players were better at complying with the rules.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Whatever the reasons were, something has changed in the playoffs. Teams received 3.05 power plays per game through Thursday's action. Boarding, cross-checking, high-sticking, interference, and roughing are being punished at a greater rate than in the regular season, according to a scan of <a href="https://www.icydata.hockey/player_stats/49/penalties">IcyData's penalty tracker</a>. (Holding, slashing, and tripping calls have held steady.)</p><p>This playoff shift happens annually. Over the past 10 years, power-play attempts have climbed in the postseason by an average of 0.19 per team game. This year's difference - 0.34 attempts - amounts to a few extra calls and scoring opportunities throughout a competitive series and dozens more over an entire round.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🤔 How PP attempt rate shifts" aria-label="Grouped Columns" id="datawrapper-chart-llVcs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/llVcs/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The playoffs can seem violent and lawless, but minor infractions don't get overlooked.</p><p>Compared to the regular season, fewer postseason games elapse with next-to-no penalty calls. More produce a wave of power plays.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Power play frequency" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-IlcgN" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/IlcgN/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="400" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Here are a few takeaways on the fluctuating trend, what it means, and who it favors.</p><p><strong>Goal surge</strong>: Despite the downshift in calls in the regular season, power plays created stellar looks and beat goalies at an exceptional 21.6% clip - the best NHL average since the mid-1980s, per <a href="https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/stats.html">Hockey Reference</a>. The current playoff PP scoring rate (22.7%) is even stronger, and it dwarfs the league average from the past 10 postseasons (20.3%). The Jets are the only active team operating below 20%, but they prolonged their season with a couple of big goals Thursday.</p><p><strong>Big beneficiaries</strong>: The Stars and Hurricanes top the playoffs in power-play goals (Dallas is 11-for-38, Carolina's 9-for-32) because they mix efficiency with opportunity. Both ranked in the top three in PP attempts this season, and both are drawing more whistles now that calls are up. Outscoring their playoff opponents by a healthy 10-2 margin on special teams spurred the Canes to the conference finals.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/cropped_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/w220xh124_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/w320xh180_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/w640xh360_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/w768xh432_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785810/w1080xh607_SARH.jpg?ts=1747337590 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Sebastian Aho (left) and Roope Hintz. <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Josh Lavallee, Matthew Pearce / NHL, Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Individual standouts</strong>: Dallas center Roope Hintz shares the NHL lead for drawn penalties (seven) with Washington's Tom Wilson; Toronto's Calle Jarnkrok has drawn six in much less ice time. Carolina star Sebastian Aho paces the pack with three power-play goals and six points. The Stars' Mikael Granlund and Golden Knights' Victor Olofsson are the only players with two power-play goals in Round 2 - and both scored theirs in a single game.</p><p><strong>PK counterpunchers</strong>: No one would mistake the Panthers for model citizens, but their 88.9% penalty kill bails them out of trouble. They killed all but two of the Lightning's 18 power plays in the first round. They've held the Maple Leafs' skilled marksmen to an identical scoring rate. Like Carolina (93.3% PK) and Dallas (86.1%), Florida's equipped to deal with a parade to the box.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31304926/related

NHL penalty calls fell, then surged. Who's capitalizing?

Stuart Skinner was kneeling in no man's land on the outskirts of the crease when a superstar team...

<p>Stuart Skinner was kneeling in no man's land on the outskirts of the crease when a superstar teammate scored on him in Game 3. Leon Draisaitl's tiebreaking deflection into his own net with 0.4 seconds on the clock turned out to be the last goal of the Golden Knights' season.</p><p>Skinner crouched for a cursory faceoff, left the ice, and returned to blank Vegas for the next 127 minutes of action. His consecutive shutouts and Kasperi Kapanen's grubby overtime series clincher sent the Oilers to a third Western Conference final in four years. Edmonton mobbed the grinning goalie and the heroic waiver pickup as the teams lined up for handshakes.</p><p>The turn of events reflected the volatility of goaltending. Skinner's terrible 0-2 start to the postseason forced the Oilers to bench him. Functional backup Calvin Pickard won six games, then got hurt against Vegas, launching Skinner's redemption tour. His career playoff save percentage is .893, but in closeout games, he's 5-1 with a .925 save percentage following Wednesday's 1-0 triumph.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Over in the Eastern Conference, the Maple Leafs lit up Sergei Bobrovsky for two games and parts of another, but his turnaround in the middle of the series saved the Panthers' Stanley Cup defense. Injuries derailed Frederik Andersen's season, yet the Hurricanes veteran righted the ship and enters Thursday's elimination opportunity with a league-leading .935 save rate.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/cropped_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785754/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214431009.jpg?ts=1747322474 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Their shutout streaks changed the second round. Skinner stopped 47 straight shots to wreck the Golden Knights' Cup dream. Bobrovsky stoned the Leafs for 143 minutes and 25 seconds between the third period of Game 3 and garbage time in Wednesday's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3286247" href="https://thescore.com/news/3286247">beatdown</a>. Andersen was perfect for 123:34 as Carolina swept its homestand against the Capitals to move within a win of advancing.</p><p>Cold spells plagued Alex Ovechkin, who's beaten Andersen once on 11 shots, and Jack Eichel, whose last point for Vegas came in the first period of Game 3. Florida's pair of Selke Trophy finalists, Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart, handcuffed Auston Matthews' line to get the boo birds chirping on a miserable night at Toronto's Scotiabank Arena.</p><p>Before Game 5 of Leafs-Panthers became a laugher, it was scoreless in the first period when Bobrovsky kicked aside William Nylander's breakaway attempt. Skinner flashed the leather a few times and was in position for timely saves throughout Edmonton's decisive win. Draisaitl made up for his oopsie on the own goal by stifling Eichel for all of Wednesday and assisting Kapanen's finisher at the end of a defensive marathon.</p><p>Five of the postseason's eight shutouts to date have come in Round 2. Connor Hellebuyck blanked the Stars once, but Jake Oettinger's superiority is why the Jets are on the brink. Rock-solid netminding is separating contenders from pretenders around the league.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31297838/related

3 shutout streaks changed the course of Round 2

Stanley Cup contenders build around homegrown superstars, but they need skaters throughout the li...

<p>Stanley Cup contenders build around homegrown superstars, but they need skaters throughout the lineup to provide significant support. By filling a variety of valuable roles, these seven players make their teams deeper and more dangerous.</p><h3>Mikko Rantanen, Stars</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/cropped_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785437/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214594116.jpg?ts=1747155828 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Hodde / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Rantanen is the ultimate in-season addition. His arrival at the trade deadline and extension through 2033 for the bargain annual price of $12 million supercharged the present and future potential of Dallas' core. Rantanen's current tear made him the third NHLer to tally nine goals and 18 points in the span of seven playoff games, per Stathead. Wayne Gretzky and Jari Kurri scored at the same scorching rate for the 1980s Oilers.</p><h3>Brad Marchand, Panthers</h3><p>Marchand is thriving as a rental. The Panthers will happily trade a first-round draft pick as a condition of reaching the conference finals if the ageless pest propels them past Toronto. The former Bruin and pending unrestricted free agent will always plague the Maple Leafs. Marchand had four points in Games 1-3, including a pinballing overtime winner, and he played 22 minutes on his 37th birthday in Game 4 as Florida protected a series-tying lead.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Thomas Harley, Stars</h3><p>Miro Heiskanen's long absence should have been disastrous for Dallas, but Harley saved the day with his Herculean minute-munching efforts. He averaged 24:53 of ice time over the final 30 games of the regular season and is up to 27:06 in the playoffs as a go-to puck-mover and temporary power-play quarterback. The tireless 23-year-old defenseman, a 4 Nations injury replacement, is gaining the inside track to make Canada's Olympic team on merit.</p><h3>Jaccob Slavin, Hurricanes</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/cropped_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785438/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214770991.jpg?ts=1747155952 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Slavin's a tremendous penalty killer. The rangy, intelligent defenseman leads Carolina in PK minutes (3:31 per night) and wasn't caught on the ice for an opposing goal until Game 4 against the Capitals. The Canes, who stifled the Devils' power play in Round 1, have outscored New Jersey and Washington 10-2 on special teams. In the regular season, no NHL defender with a remotely similar workload suppressed PP goals and dangerous chances like Slavin.</p><h3>Adam Lowry, Jets</h3><p>The Jets captain, an expert in the faceoff circle, ranks second in won draws (112) behind Toronto's Auston Matthews. Lowry's 53.9% win rate dwarfs his 51.4% career average and counterbalances the struggles of Winnipeg's other three centers (combined 42.8% in the postseason). Outside of the dot, Lowry's forechecking and cycling led to his fabled overtime clincher against the Blues and allowed him to roof a rebound in Game 2 versus the Stars.</p><h3>Matthew Knies, Maple Leafs</h3><p>Knies is an entry-level difference-maker. The second-year power forward with five playoff goals and a $925,000 cap hit accounts for less than 4% of his talented line's price tag. His emphatic impact as the designated finisher alongside Matthews and Mitch Marner is guaranteeing Knies a steep raise in restricted free agency. He's invaluable to the Leafs, who get inconsistent scoring from the cheap veterans they shoehorn into depth roles to be cap compliant.</p><h3>Connor Brown, Oilers</h3><p>The 31-year-old Brown is a cheap, quality veteran. He re-upped with Edmonton for a year and $1 million to continue rediscovering his game after ACL surgery. The winger has scored in three playoff wins, and he's deked and pickpocketed Golden Knights defenders to create offense for himself and linemate Adam Henrique. Two of the Oilers' most affordable forwards - Brown and fellow shrewd vet Corey Perry - picked an excellent time to heat up.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31285362/related

7 skaters providing immense value in the playoffs

A Canadian team hasn't won the Stanley Cup in 32 years, but the second round of the 2025 playoffs...

<p><em>A Canadian team hasn't won the Stanley Cup in 32 years, but the second round of the 2025 playoffs is providing hope. Toronto leads its series with Florida, 2-1, Edmonton's up 2-0 over Vegas, and Winnipeg's tied 1-1 with Dallas. Below, we discuss reasons for optimism and pessimism for the three Canadian clubs.</em></p><h3>Toronto Maple Leafs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/cropped_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784935/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214294247.jpg?ts=1746845161 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carmen Mandato / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Optimistic view</strong>: Toronto dictated the style and pace of play in Games 1 and 2 - two wins - and held its own in a Game 3 overtime loss. That's an extremely encouraging sign in a series against a well-oiled machine like the Panthers.</p><p>The team with the most puck-battle wins has won each game, and in the Leafs' victories those battles have helped them attack off the rush with numbers. William Nylander's collected six points, four of them off the rush and a fifth when he joined the play late with downhill speed after a line change.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Other series standouts include Max Pacioretty (five points, team-high 16 hits), Matthew Knies (four points, forechecking nightmare), and Morgan Rielly (two goals, two assists). Shutdown defensemen Jake McCabe and Chris Tanev have been superb. Both are key to the penalty kill, and the Leafs are outscoring the Panthers 4-1 in the pair's 50-plus five-on-five minutes together.</p><p><strong>Pessimistic view</strong>: Auston Matthews hasn't been <em>bad</em> so far. In fact, he's contributed three assists, and his line with Knies and Mitch Marner has held Aleksander Barkov's line off the scoresheet at five-on-five.</p><p>Yet, Matthews hasn't looked himself as a sniper. He's hesitant to shoot, especially on the power play, and when he does, the puck rarely meets its target. Matthews has 25 attempts in Round 2 but only 11 shots on goal. He has yet to solve Sergei Bobrovksy and scored just twice in the first round.</p><p>Meanwhile, Leafs Nation is holding its breath every time Joseph Woll handles the puck. Woll's been competent in relief for Anthony Stolarz but had enough uh-oh moments in 165 minutes of crease time to fill a lengthy lowlight reel.</p><p>A third mild concern: Tanev's durability. He's been on the receiving end of a playoff-high 71 hits for an average of 7.9 per game. He left Game 3 briefly, and it feels like he's one awkward collision from ending up on injured reserve.</p><h3>Edmonton Oilers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/cropped_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784851/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214165035.jpg?ts=1746810137 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Optimistic view</strong>: The Oilers top the playoffs in goals (4.5 per night) and ride a record streak of comeback wins (six in a row) into a homestand at Rogers Place, where they can nudge the Golden Knights to the brink. If the clock's still ticking, their playmakers and shooters know they can strike next and erase any deficit. That's a major psychological advantage.</p><p>Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's awesome production - they combined for 27 points through eight games - aligns with their career averages, so no letup or drop-off is coming. Edmonton's prevailed twice in overtime because of McDavid's suite of unstoppable traits (acceleration, stickhandling, and vision) and Draisaitl's precise finishing.</p><p>A league-high seven Oilers have already buried at least three goals. Corey Perry's revival, Evander Kane's return to health, and breakouts from Connor Brown and Vasily Podkolzin strengthened each of Kris Knoblauch's forward trios. The defense corps is imperfect but plainly benefited from the in-season additions of John Klingberg and Jake Walman.</p><p><strong>Pessimistic view</strong>: Comebacks are magical, but the Oilers seem unable to start on time and have trailed in every playoff game. They've conceded three opening goals within three minutes of puck drop and six by the middle of the first period. While Knoblauch presents a calm front, that must make his stomach churn.</p><p>The penalty kill, a forte of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final squad, owns the league's worst success rate (59.3%). Opposing power plays boast four multi-goal performances. Losing three cornerstones of last year's airtight PK - the injured Mattias Ekholm, plus Cody Ceci and Vincent Desharnais - forced worse killers to take on bigger roles.</p><p>Other concerns about Edmonton are hypothetical. Calvin Pickard's .888 save percentage has yet to lead to a loss, but if he begins to spring leaks, can Knoblauch confidently turn back to Stuart Skinner? Hold that thought for now.</p><h3>Winnipeg Jets</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/cropped_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784948/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213665956.jpg?ts=1746851717 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Optimistic view</strong>: Nikolaj Ehlers and Gabriel Vilardi returned to the lineup in the second half of the first round. Mark Scheifele came back in Game 1 versus the Stars, and Josh Morrissey returned in Friday's Game 2. The Jets are finally at full force.</p><p>The returnees' performances have ratcheted up the optimism, most notably Ehlers and Vilardi. Ehlers, a playoff no-show in the past, was flying throughout Game 2's victory, scoring twice on a game-high seven shots and adding a primary assist in less than 15 minutes of ice time. Vilardi, also a Game 2 goal-scorer, is generating inner-slot scoring chances at a high rate.</p><p>Winnipeg almost didn't make it past St. Louis because superstar goalie Connor Hellebuyck faltered in multiple games. Well, he stopped all 21 Dallas shots Friday. His second-period glove save on Evgenii Dadonov was unreal, and overall his confidence appears to be back at an appropriate level.</p><p><strong>Pessimistic view</strong>: Mikko Rantanen is on the other team.</p><p>The power forward has been a wrecking ball all playoffs. Since the Stars failed to score Friday, Rantanen enters Sunday's Game 3 with his wacko streak intact; he's somehow registered a point on each of Dallas' last 12 goals.</p><p>The Avalanche had no answer for Rantanen in Round 1 and neither did the Jets in Game 1, as the former Av torched Winnipeg with a second-period hat trick. The series is shifting to Dallas, which means Pete DeBoer, one of the best matchup coaches in the NHL, should have an easier time getting Rantanen away from Jets captain and top defensive center Adam Lowry.</p><p>Not to be forgotten: Hellebuyck collapsed in epic fashion on the road in the first round. For as good as he looked Friday, he needs a signature performance outside of Winnipeg before the doubters stop doubting him.</p><p><em>John Matisz and Nick Faris cover the NHL for theScore.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31245387/related

Each Canadian playoff team's reasons for optimism, pessimism

Incredible skill is the force behind the Oilers' string of thrilling comeback wins. Connor McDavi...

<p>Incredible skill is the force behind the Oilers' string of thrilling comeback wins. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are the greatest postseason performers of their generation.</p><p>Age and experience permit their teammates not to panic. Edmonton played with poise while coming from behind to eliminate the Kings for a fourth straight year and stun the Golden Knights in the Round 2 opener. This silvery Stanley Cup contender keeps trailing on the scoreboard, then triumphing late.</p><p>Edmonton's one of the oldest squads of the salary-cap era. Over the past 20 years, just one NHL team dressed as many skaters in their 30s for the bulk of the schedule. Eleven thirtysomething members of the 2025 Oilers and 2009 Devils played at least 60 games in those regular seasons, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/Q557O">Stathead</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The playoff lineup is even grayer: Twelve of the 19 Oilers (eight forwards, three defensemen, goalie Calvin Pickard) who faced off with Vegas in Game 1 are aged 30 and up. Secondary offense from wily vets fueled the club's latest rally.</p><p>Edmonton dug out of a 2-0 hole Tuesday when John Klingberg's outlet feed and touches from Draisaitl and McDavid set up Corey Perry's composed finish at the Vegas crease. Another sharp passing sequence between Klingberg, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Evander Kane led to Zach Hyman's clutch winner, which he rang in off the post with three minutes left. Connor Brown grabbed a blocked shot and juked Shea Theodore ahead of his brilliant insurance tally.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/cropped_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784568/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213823151.jpg?ts=1746651014 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Candice Ward / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Oilers' fifth consecutive comeback win established a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3281924" href="https://thescore.com/news/3281924">new playoff record</a>. Their two multi-goal comebacks, achieved in Game 4 against Los Angeles and Game 1 in Vegas, are more than any team managed in the entire 2023 or 2024 postseasons.</p><p>Resilience is a championship trait, as theScore's John Matisz noted in his <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279942" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279942">recent mailbag</a>. Numerous cap-era Cup winners, including the 2022 Avalanche and '23 Golden Knights, routinely bounced back from deficits and averaged more than two comeback wins per round. Conceding the first goal never alarmed them.</p><p>These Oilers have been outscored 20-13 through 40 minutes of games, but they're up 17-6 in third periods. Older forwards scored most of those late goals: Brown has three; Hyman and Mattias Janmark have two; and Kane, Nugent-Hopkins, Perry, and Viktor Arvidsson added one apiece. So far, Edmonton's controlled the action when the puck-moving Klingberg and stabilizing defender Brett Kulak are on the ice.</p><p>The 18 Oilers skaters in the Game 1 lineup boast a collective 1,258 games of postseason experience. The ageless Perry tops all active players with 222 career appearances.</p><p>Vegas countered with 1,240 games of experience, and that was with Alex Pietrangelo (145 games) sidelined by an illness. Cagey captain Mark Stone redirected a power-play goal and promptly followed that up with a patient snipe. The Golden Knights have the skill and veteran savvy to counterpunch in Game 2.</p><p>The Oilers are building momentum, though. With a brisk series triumph, they'd be able to celebrate Perry's 40th birthday on May 16 - the night of a potential Game 6 - in style.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

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Grizzled Oilers' comebacks prove age is just a number

Each second-round playoff matchup is set after delirious Game 7 triumphs from the Dallas Stars an...

<p><em>Each second-round playoff matchup is set after delirious Game 7 triumphs from the Dallas Stars and Winnipeg Jets. Here are significant questions for the eight teams still chasing the Stanley Cup.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783977/TOR-FLA.jpg?ts=1746366176 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Will Maple Leafs get depth scoring?</strong></p><p>Clutch flourishes from Max Domi (overtime winner) and Max Pacioretty (series clincher) were the only goals Toronto received in Round 1 from bottom-six forwards. The core stars shone, but they'll need consistent support to trouble an intimidating Panthers lineup that teems with scoring and bite. The Leafs' third line can't afford to cave against Florida's top few trios, which are centered by Aleksander Barkov, Sam Bennett, and Anton Lundell.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Can Panthers stay levelheaded?</strong></p><p>By pulverizing the Lightning, the defending champions proved they should be favored against any playoff opponent. But their reckless hits led to two major penalties and the suspension of defenseman Aaron Ekblad, who can return in Game 2 against the Leafs. The response from Florida's penalty kill was brilliant (88.9% success rate). It's still preferable to toe the line and not risk letting Toronto's quick-strike power play swing the series.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/cropped_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784033/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211519942.jpg?ts=1746387619 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Peter Joneleit / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><center><u>                    </u></center></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784036/WSH-CAR.jpg?ts=1746388731 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Can Tom Wilson be a menace?</strong></p><p>Wilson's <a href="https://x.com/theScore/status/1915934534983389328">fake cry</a> - an exceptional taunt he unleashed in Montreal - will be weaponized against him as soon as the Capitals exit the postseason. He can push them closer to the Cup by continuing to play with overwhelming force. Wilson changed the Canadiens series when he trucked Alexandre Carrier shortly before the tying goal in the Caps' third win. His evolution into a 30-goal scorer after turning 30 makes his team much more dangerous.</p><p><strong>Will Carolina's offense run dry?</strong></p><p>By winning a seventh consecutive opening series, the Hurricanes reached the trickier part of their schedule. They were outscored by the 2024 Rangers in a six-game defeat despite pumping 67 more shots on net. They managed six goals on 174 shots in Florida's razor-thin sweep of the '23 Eastern Conference Final. Finishing is a weakness whenever they're eliminated. It's promising that 11 Canes scored and Andrei Svechnikov buried five goals against New Jersey.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/cropped_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784034/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211748548.jpg?ts=1746387870 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Graessle / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><center><u>                    </u></center></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783978/VGK-EDM.jpg?ts=1746366181 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Has Jack Eichel hit his stride?</strong></p><p>Eichel had a respectable five points but was outplayed by opposing star Kirill Kaprizov in Round 1, and the Golden Knights were often overmatched when he was on the ice (8-3 Wild at even strength). Contributions throughout the lineup helped Vegas scrape out four close wins (two in overtime), and Eichel's four points in Games 5-6 included a breakaway goal and a wonderful shorthanded helper. He needs to stay hot and drive the bus against Connor McDavid's Oilers.</p><p><strong>Is Calvin Pickard the answer in net?</strong></p><p>Stuart Skinner opened seven consecutive playoff rounds as Edmonton's starter, then lost the gig after two limp losses to the Kings. While Pickard didn't paint a Picasso, his .898 save percentage over four wins was just below the NHL season average and didn't undermine McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's scoring. The 33-year-old journeyman can devour shots: No qualified goalie allowed fewer rebound attempts per 60 minutes this year, according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/playerteams.php?fromseason=20232024&amp;thruseason=20232024&amp;stype=2&amp;sit=all&amp;score=all&amp;stdoi=g&amp;rate=y&amp;team=ALL&amp;pos=S&amp;loc=B&amp;toi=1000&amp;gpfilt=none&amp;fd=&amp;td=&amp;tgp=410&amp;lines=single&amp;draftteam=ALL">Natural Stat Trick</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/cropped_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784035/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211377263.jpg?ts=1746388034 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Codie McLachlan / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><center><u>                    </u></center></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783979/WPG-DAL.jpg?ts=1746366186 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Will Connor Hellebuyck and his defense level up?</strong></p><p>There's plenty of blame to share for the 27 goals the Jets, an ostensible defensive juggernaut, allowed against the Blues. Defensemen blocked Hellebuyck's sightline and let scorers waltz to the crease. Some shots, like Mathieu Joseph's wrister in Game 7, simply needed to be stopped by the Vezina Trophy favorite. But Winnipeg battled, and a frantic comeback completed in double overtime gives Hellebuyck a chance to enhance his .830 playoff save percentage.</p><p><strong>Can Mikko Rantanen be stopped?</strong></p><p>The Avalanche's season ended in infamy because Rantanen flipped Game 7 in one period with a late hat trick and four points. It was his second straight game with four points in a frame. The Stars' stingy defensive effort helped them win the decider and bought more time for Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson to return from injury. Rantanen, whose career playoff scoring average (1.28 points per game) ranks seventh all time, is his deep team's greatest weapon.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

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8 key questions for NHL's 2nd-round playoff teams

Our hockey writers shared observations throughout Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.  Sunday, M...

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Running analysis of Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs

Our hockey writers shared observations throughout Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tap to ret...

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Past analysis of Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs

The steep downfall of the Pittsburgh Penguins led to head coach Mike Sullivan's exit Monday. The ...

<p>The steep downfall of the Pittsburgh Penguins led to head coach Mike Sullivan's exit Monday. The two parties' agreement to part ways wasn't foreseeable or justified until Pittsburgh slumped to 13th in the Eastern Conference this season. But it was seven years in the making.</p><p>The Penguins haven't won a playoff series since 2018, when the archrival Capitals bounced them ahead of Alex Ovechkin's Stanley Cup breakthrough. The Islanders swept them in 2019. Carey Price's brilliance doomed them to a meek showing against the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the 2020 bubbled qualifying round. Sullivan's team blew series leads to the Islanders and Rangers, then missed three straight postseasons by one, three, and 11 points.</p><p>However, his peak in Pittsburgh was towering. Sullivan replaced Mike Johnston midway through the 2015-16 season when Sidney Crosby was seven years removed from his only taste of glory. The back-to-back championships that followed made Crosby's legacy unassailable, and the Penguins' competitive window seemed limitless.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Successive general managers (Jim Rutherford, Ron Hextall, and now Kyle Dubas) tried and failed to surround their ageless captain with sufficient help. The power play, catastrophic defensive efforts, and goaltending became major problems. Crosby carried the offense as Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Erik Karlsson all lost a step. It's staggering that fans have grown used to not seeing the Penguins in the first round.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/cropped_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782916/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210946316.jpg?ts=1745853380 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Sargent / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>2024-25 was a season of change in the NHL. The Bruins entered a tailspin, held a fire sale, and ended their eight-year streak of playoff appearances, which had been tied for the active league lead. The dysfunctional Rangers imploded and fired coach Peter Laviolette at the bitter end of his second season at the helm.</p><p>Either Original Six franchise could bring in Sullivan for a second stint. He coached Boston on both sides of the 2005 lockout, and he was John Tortorella's lead assistant with the Rangers in the early 2010s.</p><p>The Ducks and Kraken also have vacancies, while the Blackhawks and Flyers need to decide the fate of their interim coaches. Sullivan's record took a hit in recent seasons, but the 57-year-old is in his coaching prime, and he'll be in demand.</p><p>The end of Sullivan's Penguins chapter also adds a layer to his rivalry with Jon Cooper. The decorated Lightning and Canada head coach beat Sullivan's United States team at the 4 Nations Face-Off. A rematch in Italy is coming at the 2026 Olympics. As of Monday, Cooper's the only active coach who's been with his NHL franchise for a decade.</p><p><em>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.</em></p>

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Playoff flops spoiled Sullivan's glorious Penguins tenure

As the Stanley Cup Playoffs begin, we highlight 16 players - one for every championship hopeful -...

<p><em>As the Stanley Cup Playoffs begin, we highlight 16 players - one for every championship hopeful - with the power to take over matchups and propel their team to NHL supremacy.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Eastern Conference series" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vVSXo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vVSXo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="165" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Matthew Knies</strong>: The Maple Leafs have never had a player like Knies in the Auston Matthews-Mitch Marner-William Nylander era. Yes, Knies has been around for the past two playoff runs, but not this version of him. The hulking power forward exploded for 29 goals in his sophomore campaign, nearly doubling his 15 from a year ago.<em><strong> </strong></em>If he can effectively utilize his 6-foot-3, 227-pound frame for postseason hockey, it could open up more space for linemates Matthews and Marner, who need to deliver for Toronto to go deep.</p><p><strong>Brady Tkachuk</strong>: The Senators captain hasn't played in many big games in his pro career, mainly because he hasn't gotten a taste of playoff hockey. But if his performance at the 4 Nations Face-Off was any indication - he scored three goals in four games and was a maniac on the forecheck - his game is tailor-made for the postseason. If the Senators pull off the upset in this series, you can bet it will be because Tkachuk drags them into the fight.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/cropped_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780692/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209461358.jpg?ts=1744730098 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vince Del Monte / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Andrei Vasilevskiy</strong>: The Lightning goaltender was a massive part of their three consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances from 2020-22. His Conn Smythe Trophy-winning 2021 playoffs, in which he recorded four series-clinching shutouts, was the stuff of legend. But Vasilevskiy has been a weakness with an .885 save percentage over the past two postseasons where Tampa Bay has been eliminated in Round 1. If the playoff Vasi of old shows up - a real possibility after a strong, healthy regular season - look out.</p><p><strong>Brad Marchand</strong>: The marriage between Marchand and the Panthers hasn't been as perfect as we might've thought - so far. The trade deadline acquisition tallied four points in 10 games with an ugly 43% expected goals share since returning from injury - a far cry from his typical 60-plus point pace. But Marchand was brought to Florida for the playoffs. Does he have enough left in the tank to deliver when it matters most? Can he be his usual agitating self?</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/cropped_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780550/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208821886.jpg?ts=1744643759 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andrew Mordzynski / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Alex Ovechkin</strong>: The NHL's record goal scorer just buried 44 in 65 games despite enduring a broken leg. That translates to the fifth-best per-game scoring rate of Ovechkin's transcendent 20-year career. With a lofty 12.5% team shooting percentage, the Capitals sniped at will throughout the season but went cold during a recent funk. They can win rounds for the first time since their 2018 Cup run if Ovechkin continues to find open ice and overwhelm goalies.</p><p><strong>Lane Hutson</strong>: The Canadiens' defensive shortcomings seem insignificant when the shifty, intelligent Hutson sets up Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, or Patrik Laine for tap-ins. His preternatural poise let him control games as a historically productive rookie blue-liner. In Hutson's first brush with a playoff opponent, he'll log intense minutes as Washington seeks to close his stickhandling and passing windows and force mistakes.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/cropped_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780553/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194929042.jpg?ts=1744644951 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Josh Lavallee / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Seth Jarvis</strong>: Modeling consistency, the Hurricanes have advanced past the opening round of every postseason since 2019. Inevitably, they begin struggling to finish and bow out of the dance. Part of the problem is they've dropped five consecutive overtime games dating to the 2023 Eastern Conference Final. Carolina's luck will turn if Jarvis, an all-situations force whose 32 goals paced the club, jolts the offense in a huge moment.</p><p><strong>Jesper Bratt</strong>: The Devils' 9-10-1 record since March 2 shows they teetered without Jack Hughes but refused to be crushed by his season-ending injury. It helped that Bratt, a phenomenal creator, continued the scoring tear that spurred him to fifth<strong> </strong>in the NHL in assists (67),<strong> </strong>sixth<strong> </strong>in primary assists (36),<strong> </strong>and<strong> </strong>tied for 15th<strong> </strong>in points (88). New Jersey's top line - Nico Hischier between Bratt and Ondrej Palat - needs to expose the Canes' shaky goaltending.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><center><u>                    </u></center></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Western Conference series" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oMc0v" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oMc0v/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="165" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Connor Hellebuyck</strong>: It's time for Hellebuyck to take over a postseason and cement his status as an all-time great goaltender. He already has the regular-season hardware with two Vezina Trophies and a third likely coming his way in June. But he's struggled mightily with an .875 save percentage and a 4.28 goals-against average in 10 games over the past two postseasons. With the Jets winning the Presidents' Trophy and Hellebuyck firmly in his prime at 31, there's no better time than now to go on a deep run.</p><p><strong>Jordan Binnington</strong>: If any goalie won't be intimidated by going head-to-head with Hellebuyck, it's Binnington, who got the better of his American counterpart in the final of the 4 Nations Face-Off. Binnington's confidence skyrocketed from his strong showing for Canada. He owned an .897 save percentage for the Blues before the tournament but posted a .910 mark afterward. A proven big-game goalie riding high is bad news for opposing shooters.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/cropped_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780690/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206516253.jpg?ts=1744729324 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Curtis Comeau / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Mikko Rantanen</strong>: The potential of Rantanen haunting his former team is arguably the opening round's most intriguing storyline. He started to find his footing with the Stars - something he couldn't do in his brief stint with the Hurricanes - by recording 14 points in his final 13 games. The Stars are one of the deepest teams in the league, but a true game-breaker up front like Rantanen could put them over the top in the playoffs.</p><p><strong>Brock Nelson</strong>: The Avalanche front office overhauled nearly half the team throughout the season, but Nelson was probably their biggest addition. Colorado hasn't had a center of Nelson's caliber behind Nathan MacKinnon since 2022, when the Avs won the Cup with Nazem Kadri producing valuable secondary offense. The 6-foot-4 Nelson, who boasts an impressive playoff resume with 27 goals in 78 games, could provide a similar impact.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/cropped_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780563/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196817728.jpg?ts=1744647680 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared Silber / NHL / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Tomas Hertl</strong>: Acquired at the 2024 trade deadline, Hertl's unproductive first series with the Golden Knights contributed to their defeat in seven games. They'll be miserable to face this spring if he meets expectations. The big center's 11 goals in his past 17 outings helped Vegas accrue a .731 points percentage since the 4 Nations break. The Pacific Division's top seed is a buzzsaw with scoring depth, brawn, and championship experience.</p><p><strong>Kirill Kaprizov</strong>: Only four NHL megastars (Nikita Kucherov, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and MacKinnon) produced more points per game than Kaprizov, the heartbeat of the Wild. However, he was injured for half the year, and Minnesota suffered accordingly, playing at an 88-point standings pace without him in the lineup. The Wild can spook Vegas if they receive superior goaltending and Kaprizov is dominant for close to 25 minutes each night.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/cropped_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780556/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193283478.jpg?ts=1744646310 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Curtis Comeau / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Vladislav Gavrikov</strong>: The Kings are a shutdown team that allowed the second-fewest goals and shots on net in the NHL. They tap Gavrikov to shadow stars, block rubber, and create calm in front of Darcy Kuemper, the potential Vezina Trophy finalist who'll be the seventh Los Angeles goalie in four postseasons to face Edmonton. Gavrikov and L.A.'s other defensive linchpins, Mikey Anderson and Drew Doughty, are battle-tested and itching to slay the beast.</p><p><strong>Connor McDavid</strong>: Who else? The Oilers were about to be swept in the last Stanley Cup Final when McDavid's back-to-back four-point explosions turned a rout into an unforgettable slugfest. When he faces the Kings in the playoffs, he transforms into Wayne Gretzky with blinding speed. The hardest player to stop, no one's better equipped than McDavid to elevate linemates, lacerate a strong defense, and drag a banged-up team to victory.</p>