The Swedish winger missed the team’s previous game with a lower-body injury, but there is growing optimism inside the organization that he could return, with reports indicating he is “probable” or at least has a real chance to suit up.

His status remains one of the key storylines, especially after he was a late scratch earlier in the week despite taking warmups. The Kings have labeled him day-to-day, and head coach D.J. Smith has expressed hope that the forward can go.

What happened to Adrian Kempe?

Adrian Kempe suffered a lower-body injury and is currently listed as day-to-day for the Los Angeles Kings. The forward was a late scratch in a recent game against the New York Rangers despite taking part in warmups, with reports indicating the issue may have occurred just before puck drop.

The injury forced him to miss his first game of the 2025–26 season, and while the team has not disclosed full details, early indications suggest it is not considered serious. The Kings are monitoring him closely.

How important has Adrian Kempe been this season?

Adrian Kempe has been one of the Los Angeles Kings’ top offensive leaders this season, leading the team in scoring production. He has recorded 26 goals and 58 points in 66 games, underlining his role as a primary scoring option in the lineup.

Beyond the numbers, he has been a driving force in the Kings’ attack, consistently producing in key moments and anchoring top-line combinations. He also ranks among the team leaders in goals, assists and total points.

Detroit currently holds more than $12 million in available cap space, positioning the franchise as one of the more aggressive potential buyers on the market. As several trades have already reshaped the league landscape, the Red Wings appear determined to evaluate every opportunity that could improve their blue line before the deadline arrives.

According to NHL insider Jeff Marek, Detroit has already checked in on a specific target. “I know for sure that they’ve checked in on Ristolainen a few times,” Marek reported, indicating the Red Wings have shown interest in Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen.

Detroit seeking more physical presence on the blue line

The 6-foot-4 right-shot defenseman is known for his physical style and willingness to block shots, traits that could help address areas where Detroit has struggled defensively this season. Ristolainen’s presence could particularly strengthen the penalty kill and add a tougher edge to the Red Wings’ defensive structure.

Contract situation could complicate a potential deal

Unlike many players moved at the trade deadline, Ristolainen is not a short-term rental. The 31-year-old carries a $5.1 million cap hit that runs through the 2026–27 season, which could increase the cost of acquiring him in a trade.

However, Detroit’s strong collection of draft capital and available cap space could give Yzerman the flexibility needed to compete with other teams interested in the defenseman.

Through the first forty minutes, Florida appeared poised for a different outcome. Strong puck movement, aggressive transition play, and steady forechecking allowed the Panthers to dictate tempo and build an early lead. However, the third period exposed familiar issues that have surfaced repeatedly this season — slower decisions, lost puck battles, and a costly lack of urgency against a Flyers team that refused to go away.

Addressing the media postgame, head coach Paul Maurice did not shy away from the critical moment that changed the game. “I thought we were slow with the puck [in the third period],” Maurice said via Panthers reporter Jameson Olive.

He also added: “I think they got in on some pucks. We were just late to some loose pucks that were laying around, and they maintained that control.” His assessment captured the turning point of a night that slipped out of Florida’s hands.

Panthers lose command of third period

Florida’s early control was evident when Sam Bennett drove toward the crease and connected with Brad Marchand at 5:21 of the opening frame, giving the Panthers a 1–0 lead.

The strong start carried into the second, where Carter Verhaeghe — coming off a three-point night in Nashville — finished a clean multi-pass sequence set up by Bennett’s second primary assist of the night. But Philadelphia responded with pressure of its own, beginning with Emil Andrae’s point shot that cut the lead to 2–1 and shifted momentum.

Late breakdown hands Flyers the win

The third period saw the Panthers press but fail to break through, as Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar turned aside 25 of 27 Florida shots to steady his team. The decisive moment arrived with just 44.5 seconds remaining when Tyson Foerster’s rebound attempt deflected off Aaron Ekblad’s leg before he buried the loose puck for the game-winner.

What’s next for the Panthers?

With the Thanksgiving break now behind them, the Panthers will attempt to regroup quickly as they return to home ice Friday at 4 p.m. ET to host the Calgary Flames — a chance to reset puck pressure, sharpen tempo, and regain ground in a tightening Atlantic Division race.

Perfection on ice has tempted more than a few great teams — from the 1976–77 Canadiens, who turned dominance into routine, to modern powerhouses that’ve brushed against the impossible. Yet none have ever escaped defeat entirely.

Each generation delivers a new contender that teases the dream: a team skating through winter with swagger, numbers and noise that whisper “maybe this is the one”. But the grind of the NHL always finds a way to break the spell.

Still, those near-perfect seasons endure in hockey memory, the nights when the rink felt smaller, the puck lighter, and victory inevitable. They became more than records; they became legends, proof that chasing perfection is its own kind of immortality.

Philadelphia Flyers (1979–80): The 35-game miracle run

In the fall of 1979, the Philadelphia Flyers carved out one of the most staggering streaks in NHL history — 35 consecutive games without a loss. Between October 14, 1979 and January 6, 1980, they went 25–0–10, a record that still stands today.

The mix of grit, skill, and unshakable belief defined that stretch, turning a regular season into a phenomenon. Led by Bobby Clarke, Bill Barber and goaltender Pete Peeters, the Flyers dominated opponents with suffocating forechecks and relentless energy.

Their run became a cultural moment in Philadelphia, where fans began to believe in perfection. Though they ultimately fell short of an undefeated season — and later lost the Stanley Cup Final to the Islanders — the streak remains a gold standard for consistency and resilience in NHL lore.

Montreal Canadiens (1976–77): Dominance redefined

If perfection ever came close to being real, it was the 1976–77 Montreal Canadiens. That season, they finished with an almost unthinkable 60–8–12 record, collecting points in 72 of 80 games. Their blend of artistry and precision reshaped what a “great” team could look like.

Led by Guy Lafleur, Ken Dryden, Larry Robinson and Serge Savard, the Canadiens outscored their rivals by 216 goals and finished a staggering 20 points ahead of the next-best team.

They carried that dominance into the playoffs, losing just two games en route to another Stanley Cup. It wasn’t a perfect season on paper — but it came as close as humanly possible.

Detroit Red Wings (1995–96): A modern machine

Two decades later, the 1995–96 Detroit Red Wings revived the dream of near-perfection. With 62 wins, they broke Montreal’s single-season victory record, finishing 62–13–7.

Their combination of European finesse and North American toughness made them nearly unbeatable through much of the year. Led by Steve Yzerman, Sergei Fedorov and Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit’s puck control and two-way play became a blueprint for modern success.

Yet, even with all that dominance, the Red Wings fell short in the postseason, losing to the Avalanche in a shocking Western Conference Final — a reminder that perfection in hockey is as fragile as a bounce off the boards.

Chicago Blackhawks (2012–13): The short-season surge

In a lockout-shortened 2012–13 campaign, the Chicago Blackhawks launched one of the most electric starts in NHL history. They went 24 games without a regulation loss (21–0–3), a run that reignited a city and reminded fans that greatness could strike even in a condensed season.

Behind Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane and Corey Crawford, Chicago’s blend of speed and structure overwhelmed teams night after night. They went on to win the Stanley Cup, completing one of the most satisfying arcs in modern hockey — a streak that felt, at times, untouchable.

Boston Bruins (2022–23): Regular-season royalty

The 2022–23 Boston Bruins rewrote the record books with 65 wins and 135 points, the most in NHL history. For months, they looked unstoppable — a machine of defensive discipline and offensive depth led by David Pastrnak, Patrice Bergeron and Linus Ullmark.

But even historic numbers couldn’t guarantee immortality. The Bruins’ dream collapsed in the first round of the playoffs, proving once again that no regular season, no matter how dominant, is ever truly perfect. Still, their run remains one of the most complete displays of power in the modern era.

Notable streaks and records

• Longest undefeated streak: Philadelphia Flyers, 35 games (1979–80)
• Fewest losses in a full season: Montreal Canadiens, 8 losses (1976–77)
• Most wins in a season: Boston Bruins, 65 wins (2022–23)
• Best start to a season: Chicago Blackhawks, 24 games without a regulation loss (2012–13)
• Most wins in the modern era before Bruins: Detroit Red Wings, 62 wins (1995–96)

Through frigid winters and droughts, NHL supporters kept showing up regardless of standings. Their clubs cycled through rebuilds, coaching changes, and heartbreak, yet passion never faded. Loyalty became routine, stitched into daily life, year after year.

Some arenas echoed with frustration as defeats stacked up. Fans kept jerseys close, believing future could redeem pain. The bond strengthened in silence: long drives home after losses, ticket stubs kept and faith in what might come next, ever hopeful so.

In cities where trophies rarely arrive, loyalty becomes legacy. These fanbases held on through the roughest seasons, waiting for their time to rise. Hope fuels every chant, every banner, every promise that losing is only a chapter not destiny, soon ahead.

Toronto Maple Leafs

For a Maple Leafs fan, devotion is almost a generational burden. Despite being one of the league’s colossal markets in one of hockey’s biggest cities, Toronto supporters have endured one of the most agonizing Stanley Cup droughts in professional sports, dating back to 1967.

This is not a simple wait; it’s a constant test of faith where high hopes inflate every autumn only to be deflated, often in the first round of the playoffs. The Leafs fan wakes up every morning knowing they support a team with a legendary history, yes, but one that hasn’t tasted ultimate success in decades.

“Watching the Leafs is a religion”, is a common refrain. It’s not just about the results; it’s the tradition, the blue and white colors, and the pride of the maple leaf, which, despite everything, remains the symbol of hockey in the city.

The noise in the Scotiabank Arena, through all the ups and downs, remains one of the loudest in the league, proving that their patience is, perhaps, their greatest trophy.

Buffalo Sabres

Imagine living in a city where the weather is harsh and sports fortunes have been, at best, elusive. The Buffalo Sabres fan, based in the “716” area code, embodies pure resilience. Since their founding in 1970, they have come close to glory but have failed to grasp the ultimate prize.

The recent period has been a true walk through the desert, featuring one of the longest non-playoff streaks in NHL history. What distinguishes this group is how their support becomes a capsule of hope for the entire city. Hockey in Buffalo, alongside the NFL’s Bills, is a central part of the local identity.

The Sabres fan doesn’t just cheer for the team; they defend a legacy and patiently wait for the new wave of talent, like past icons such as Gilbert Perreault, to finally break through.

Vancouver Canucks

The Vancouver Canucks‘ fan base is marked by intense passion and often deep-seated pain. They have reached the Stanley Cup Final three times, and each time, the city has been paralyzed, only to watch the dream painfully fade. The 2011 defeat, in particular, which led to civil unrest, underscores the visceral emotional connection they have with the team.

The Vancouver faithful knows what it means to be on the brink, which amplifies the frustration of every failed rebuild. Despite years of inconsistent performance and questionable management moves, Rogers Arena fills up and the noise is deafening.

Their loyalty is not silent; it is loud, demanding, and above all, unconditional. They continue to believe in Pacific hockey, hoping their current crop of talent like Demko or Quinn Hughes can finally lead them to the promised title.

Philadelphia Flyers

To understand the devotion of Philadelphia Flyers fans, one must look back to their roots: the “Broad Street Bullies” of the 1970s. Those teams, rugged and successful, captured the hardworking spirit and tenacity of Philadelphia, making hockey a popular sport there. Since then, the team has had several “almost wins” but never the trophy.

The Flyers fan doesn’t ask for pretty play; they demand courage, toughness, and relentless effort on the ice, reflecting the city’s identity. After years without a clear direction and constant coaching changes, the fan keeps the hope alive that a new group of “tough guys” will restore the franchise’s winning identity. Their support is a cultural statement, a rallying cry that refuses to fade.

Ottawa Senators

The journey of the Ottawa Senators fan is unique in the NHL. The current franchise was born in 1992, resurrecting the name of a team with historical roots. This generated a community fervor by bringing elite hockey back to the Canadian capital. Although the team enjoyed a successful period in the early 2000s, recent years have been a rollercoaster of unfulfilled expectations and failed rebuilds.

The Sens fan, especially those who witnessed their birth, is an example of long-term patience. For many, as discussed in fan forums, the support began in childhood, idolizing players and linking that support to local identity.

They continue to attend games, even when success seems distant, on the promise that the “next generation” will finally mature. Their faith is a vote of confidence in the project, despite repeated letdowns.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Founded in 2000, the Columbus Blue Jackets are one of the league’s younger franchises and thus have less winning history to “defend.” Their fan base, sometimes nicknamed the “Anonymous Soldier,” has had to build tradition from the ground up. The choice of their name, a tribute to the Union soldiers of the Civil War, evokes a spirit of fight and tenacity reflected in their followers.

The Blue Jackets fan has lived through many more years without the playoffs than with them, only reaching the post-season for the first time in 2009. Their peak moment, the sweep of the heavily-favored Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019, was an explosion of joy that reminded everyone of what is possible.

This fan base has shown stoic loyalty in the face of inconsistency, maintaining a vibrant atmosphere at Nationwide Arena, particularly with the tradition of the cannon that fires after a goal. Their hope is the seed of tradition that, with perseverance, they expect to blossom.

Minnesota Wild

Hockey has deep roots in Minnesota, but the departure of the North Stars in 1993 left a void. When the Minnesota Wild arrived in 2000, fans in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” embraced the new team with fervent passion.

This fan base is known for being knowledgeable and demanding, heirs to a rich collegiate hockey culture. Their devotion has been tested by a disappointing playoff history: many qualifications, but few deep runs.

The Wild fan persists, not just for the professional team, but because hockey is part of the fabric of their state. Supporting the Wild is an act of local identity, a commitment to the sport they love, even when the Stanley Cup seems like a distant dream. Their faith is a pledge to the state’s tradition.

Winnipeg Jets

The Winnipeg Jets are a case study in extreme loyalty. The city lost its original team in 1996 and spent 15 years without NHL hockey. When the Atlanta franchise relocated to Winnipeg in 2011, the explosion of emotion was a sporting event of immense proportions.

This fan base, which had to suffer the loss, returned with unparalleled fervor, ensuring that the MTS Centre (now Canada Life Centre) is always one of the loudest arenas in the league, regardless of the weather or performance.

Although they have had periods of success, the Jets fan has watched their team face volatility and the difficulty of retaining top players due to the small market. Their devotion is fueled by the sheer joy of having the NHL back.

For them, every season is a gift, and every victory is a confirmation that their support, which never ceased even during the exile, is worthwhile. They are the epitome of a city that refused to be forgotten by the league.

San Jose Sharks

The San Jose Sharks, established in 1991, quickly gained a fan base in the California Bay Area, a region traditionally foreign to ice hockey. The “Teal and Black Tide” is famous for being loud and constant, even though ultimate success has eluded the franchise.

With legendary talents like Patrick Marleau and Joe Thornton, they had a long period of playoff qualifications and division dominance, but only reached one Stanley Cup Final. The Sharks fan has recently endured a painful rebuild, with seasons at the bottom of the standings.

Their loyalty is not based on an old title, but on the culture built around the team and the hope that the great talent they have always nurtured will finally complete the mission. Watching their team transition from a perennial contender to a developing franchise is a test of patience that only the most devoted are willing to overcome.

New York Islanders

The New York Islanders have a dual history: a glorious dynasty of four consecutive Stanley Cups in the early 1980s and a long, long period of subsequent mediocrity and confusion. The Long Island fan has endured decades of instability, ownership changes, stadium disputes, and failed playoff runs, especially before the resurgence under coach Barry Trotz.

What makes this group special is their historical memory and regional identity. They carry the spirit of a champion, even when the team doesn’t reflect it. Nassau Coliseum, their historic home, became a symbol of their unwavering resilience, a place where the noise and passion defied the outdated facilities. The Isles’ devotion is an act of faith in the return of glory, a constant reminder that they were once the best, and the hope that the dynasty can be revived.

Calgary Flames

Calgary Flames fans are a symbol of Western Canadian pride. Their history is marked by a single, yet epic, Stanley Cup triumph in 1989. Since then, the fanbase has lived in a state of constant frustration that, far from fading, burns stronger at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Flames supporters are vocal, passionate, and above all, demanding, expecting a total commitment that reflects the tenacity of their region. The most recent moment of true ecstasy, the run to the 2004 Final, which they ultimately lost, left a scar that keeps the thirst for victory alive.

Every rebuild, every star departure, only reinforces the unfulfilled promise of Calgary’s potential. The Flames fan is not just a spectator; they are a guardian of the flame who, despite the setbacks, continues to believe in the resurgence of Alberta’s power.

Edmonton Oilers

For Edmonton Oilers supporters, loyalty is a pendulum swinging between the memory of a legendary dynasty and the pain of one of the league’s worst lost decades, even after drafting a string of number-one picks.

Oilers fans lived through hockey’s highest peak and, after the shock of Gretzky’s departure in 1988, went on to support a team that struggled for years, with only fleeting glimpses of hope. The arrival of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl awakened a fervor that had been dormant, but playoff success has been notoriously elusive.

The Oilers fan has shown remarkable patience, enduring one managerial misstep after another, while maintaining deafening support at Rogers Place. Their faith is centered on the certainty that individual talent is enough to return them to the top, a devotion that refuses to let past greatness completely fade.

Montreal Canadiens

Supporting the Montreal Canadiens is not a choice; it is a cultural inheritance, especially for Quebec’s francophone population. With 24 Stanley Cups, they are the NHL’s most decorated franchise, but their last title was in 1993, meaning an entire generation has grown up without seeing ultimate glory.

The Habs fanbase must grapple with the pressure of a monumental past that looms over every season. The Canadiens fan doesn’t just ask for wins; they demand the dignity and excellence expected of “the Máison” of hockey.

Despite long droughts and ups and downs, the Bell Centre remains a temple with an atmosphere few can match, especially when the team manages any unexpected playoff run. Their loyalty is a matter of identity, history, and pride, an unwavering commitment to the team that shaped the league.

New York Rangers

Devotion to the New York Rangers is defined by one date: 1940. For 54 long years, Blueshirts supporters endured the infamous “curse” that prevented them from winning a Stanley Cup, making the team a recurring joke in the sports world. The moment Mark Messier lifted the Cup in 1994 was not just a victory; it was a collective liberation, an explosion of joy that paid for a century of suffering.

Since that moment, the Rangers fan lives with the memory of that wait. Although they have had successful seasons and have been contenders, they have also gone through difficult rebuilding periods.

The fanbase, anchored in the heart of Manhattan, is a mix of “Original Six City” history and the passion of one of the world’s largest cities. Their loyalty is a tribute to the sacrifice and the sweet reward that finally came, ensuring that the famous Madison Square Garden banner always holds a special meaning.

Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators fan is perhaps the most surprising and vibrant on this list. In a state where hockey lacks traditional roots, the Preds, founded in 1998, have cultivated a fanbase that is one of the loudest in the league, nicknamed the “Cathedral of Claws” or “Smashville”.

Their devotion is based on the joy of novelty and the festive atmosphere that takes over the city during games. The highlight of their history, the run to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final, turned Nashville into a hockey town.

The Predators fan, despite years of rebuilding or unstable seasons, remains unwavering. Their loyalty is a commitment to the culture they helped build. They don’t have decades of failure to lament, but the need to prove that hockey can thrive in the South. They maintain the noise level, the tradition of throwing catfish onto the ice, and the hope of another roar in the Final.

Brad Marchand’s decisive goal in the third period capped a hard-fought victory, underscoring the team’s focus on both ends of the ice. For the Panthers, every win seems to come with a lesson in resilience and discipline. Fans in Florida are quickly learning that the season will be full of these tense, closely contested affairs.

The victory also highlighted the continued excellence of Sergei Bobrovsky, who made 19 saves to earn his 431st career win, moving him six shy of tying Jacques Plante for ninth in NHL history. The Panthers are showing early signs of a balanced team—strong goaltending, opportunistic scoring, and a disciplined defensive effort.

What does Marchand say about the team’s approach in close games?

“That’s the right way to win,” Marchand said, according to The Miami Herald. “It means they’re playing a good game. Obviously we’re getting a lot of opportunities, and we can score more goals, but I think we’re more concerned about the defensive side of it, making sure that we don’t allow many.”

His remarks reflect the Panthers’ focus on defensive accountability, even while showcasing their offensive depth. Coach Paul Maurice echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for sharper execution but praising the overall team effort.

What’s next for the Panthers?

Florida closes its three-game season-opening homestand on Saturday against the Ottawa Senators at 7 p.m. ET. Injuries remain a concern, as defenseman Dmitry Kulikov left Thursday’s game with a wrist injury after colliding with the boards. Maurice confirmed that Kulikov will be evaluated on Friday.

Instead, Zegras offered a response that stunned fans and analysts alike. The 24-year-old forward, now preparing for his first season in Philadelphia after leaving Anaheim, didn’t shy away from giving a bold opinion in a recent interview. But the true shock was who he named — a current rival, not a legend from the past.

The answer, kept under wraps at first, reflected both Zegras’ personality and the bonds he has formed away from the rink. It also sparked one of the most unexpected offseason debates: can a modern star already deserve such lofty praise?

Who did Zegras call the greatest of all time?

Speaking with Greg Wyshynski of ESPN, Zegras admitted he was relieved to no longer be in the Pacific Division, where he once had to face the Vancouver Canucks four times a season. Now, as a Flyer, those meetings drop to just two per year.

That’s when he revealed his surprising choice. “I never want to play Quinn ever again. He’s the best hockey player of all-time,” Zegras said, referring to Canucks captain Quinn Hughes. While many reserve the GOAT label for Gretzky or Ovechkin, Zegras placed it firmly on the shoulders of a current Norris Trophy winner.

Off-ice bonds and friendly jabs

Zegras also recounted his offseason spent with the Hughes brothers — Jack, Luke, and Quinn. The sessions included training and plenty of golf, where he poked fun at Quinn’s deliberate style compared to Jack’s lightning-quick approach.

“Jack will have a full conversation with you while he’s putting the tee in the ground, swing quick, and then finish the conversation,” Zegras joked. “Whereas Quinn is the exact opposite. He’ll take 10 practice swings and then hit one.”

A rivalry that won’t go away

Although Zegras is happy to face Hughes fewer times per year, their matchups aren’t disappearing completely. The Flyers and Canucks are set to meet twice in an eight-day span this December, on the 22nd and 30th. Both games will draw attention, not just for the clash of two competitive teams, but for the storyline of Zegras facing off against the very player he calls the greatest of all time.

Whether or not fans agree with Zegras’ bold claim, his words highlight the growing impact of Hughes on today’s NHL. And in a league always searching for its next face of the game, that kind of endorsement carries real weight.

The news, first reported by Bleacher Report’s Frank Seravalli, has created immediate buzz around the league. Hart, who hasn’t played since stepping away in January 2024, brings both intrigue and baggage to a Vegas team already carrying one of the league’s most reliable tandems in Adin Hill and Akira Schmid. The timing, however, has only heightened speculation given Vegas’ salary cap complications. Let’s keep in mind that Marner‘s arrival came at a cost.

For Hart, the next step represents not only a return to professional hockey but also a chance to rebuild his career in a contending environment. Drafted 48th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2016, the netminder has posted a career record of 96–93–29 with a .906 save percentage. His most recent deal carried a $3.98 million cap hit—well above the two-year, $2 million per season structure currently in play.

Can Vegas afford to make this move?

With Marner on board, Vegas is already $7.6 million over the cap, meaning a Hart deal would require immediate maneuvering. “It certainly seems like the Vegas Golden Knights are the frontrunner for Carter Hart’s services,” Seravalli explained. “It’s probably likely to be a two-year deal … unless another team steps up with interest over the next 24 hours.”

What does Hart’s arrival mean for the goaltending picture?

If finalized, Hart would join a tandem anchored by Hill, with Schmid as the backup. That arrangement could create uncertainty around Schmid’s role, or force Vegas to explore trade options. Hart, who trained privately rather than joining another league during his suspension, would need to quickly prove game-readiness.

Is this the right market for a fresh start?

After being acquitted in July alongside four other players connected to the 2018 Canadian World Junior team, Hart enters the spotlight again under intense scrutiny. Las Vegas, a market accustomed to headline-grabbing storylines (Marner is the perfect example), may provide the right balance of opportunity and pressure.

The deal, once official, will not be registered until mid-October due to visa and relocation processing. That delay buys Vegas some time to manage its cap situation—but the clock is ticking. If completed, Hart’s return could become one of the defining storylines of the Golden Knights’ season, one where many eyes will also be on Marner.

Tyson Foerster has quickly become one of the best players on the Flyers. The former first-round selection in the 2020 NHL entry Draft has blossomed into a consistent point-scorer night in and night out for Philadelphia.

Meanwhile, Crosby and the Penguins have struggled to find such consistency in their latest draft picks. Regardless, some way or another Crosby has found a way to play with some of the best young talents in the league recently. During the 2025 IIHF World Championship, the Pens’ captain was joined by Foerster and other youngsters.

Though the early exit in the quarter-final stage was far from a pleasant surprise, Crosby was thrilled with what he saw on Foerster. Now he didn’t stutter to make that known to Tocchet, who will coach the 23-year-old in the City of Brotherly Love.

“Rick Tocchet said Sidney Crosby called him and told him he loved Tyson Foerster at the [IIHF] Worlds. Crosby commented Foerster was a sponge,” NBC Sports Philadelphia reporter Jordan Hall stated on his X account.

No need to panic

While fans in Pittsburgh won’t ever praise anything Philly-related, they can’t be mad at Crosby for doing so. After all, it’s not the first time the captain speaks highly of an NHL competitor.

In times where much is speculated around Crosby’s future and a potential trade request out of The Burgh, the captain’s comments shouldn’t raise any alarms. It’s just another example of great sportsmanship from Crosby, who’s accustomed fans all across the continent to such behavior on his part.

Unlikely

The noise around Crosby and his future with the Penguins is impossible to miss. It’s loud, it’s exhausting, and it’s everywhere. Still, reports hint the rumors have no influence on Crosby or his camp. If anything, the captain is fully focused on righting the ship in the City of Bridges during the next NHL campaign.

“I have not had one single hint, whisper, or innuendo—from within that tight Sidney Crosby inner circle—where he has even hinted at or mentioned this as something that he’s thinking about or considering,” insider Frank Seravalli said on the FAN Pregame podcast.

Without further ado, it’s time for Crosby and the Penguins to block out the noise and face the rest of the NHL head-on. Few believe Pittsburgh can hold its ground, but being overlooked might be exactly what the Black and Yellow need to play their best hockey.

Since the reinstatement, Hart has reportedly narrowed down a “workable number of suitors,” according to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston. Among the teams reportedly still in the mix are the Carolina Hurricanes, Vegas Golden Knights, and “one or two other teams.”

Hart’s focus is clear: finding a team where he can secure meaningful playing time while joining a competitive roster. Johnston wrote, “Hart’s main priorities remain finding a landing spot that comes with a clear path to playing time on a team that’s set up for success.”

Why the Hurricanes and Golden Knights could be attractive destinations

The Golden Knights, with goaltenders Adin Hill and Akira Schmid, have qualified for the playoffs seven times in the last eight seasons, making them an appealing option for Hart. Similarly, the Hurricanes offer competition behind Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov, while providing a path to meaningful starts.

Hart brings NHL experience to the table, having played in 227 career games with the Flyers, second only to Jake Oettinger among active goaltenders at his age. Flyers GM Danny Briere had previously indicated that both the organization and Hart’s representation believed a fresh start would be in the player’s best interest.

What’s next for Carter Hart?

Hart joins a group of former Canadian World Juniors players—including Dillon Dube, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, and Michael McLeod—who can sign new contracts starting October 1, allowing time to finalize visas and travel plans before NHL registration begins on October 15. Teams are expected to move quickly to secure him, with playing time and competitive opportunity as central considerations.

The Flyers and Canucks don’t necessarily hold a grudge for one another. But tempers might flare when Tocchet’s side clashes with Pettersson and company next season.

Vancouver has bigger things to worry about than the whereabouts of its former head coach. Still, the air will be tense when the Flyers and Canucks face off this upcoming campaign. Seeing a familiar face on the other bench might be the perfect fuel for every Canucks’ player.

The City of Brotherly Love

Tocchet, on his half, also faces a big challenge in the upcoming NHL season. The 61-year-old manager will vie to guide the Flyers back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Philly hasn’t experienced playoff hockey since the 2020 bubble. But with Matvei Michkov on the lineup, anything is possible for the Flyers.

“He thinks the game two steps ahead. It’s like chess,” Rick Tocchet said about Matvei Michkov, per NHL.com. “That’s one of his special talents.”

Grab your popcorn

Both the Canucks and Flyers have the potential to be among the most entertaining teams of the 2025-26 NHL season. They might not be on pace to compete for the Stanley Cup, but they can give any team a run for its money on any given night.

Thus, when Pettersson and company face off against Michkov and the crew in Philly, fireworks are guaranteed. It will take a while—patience is key—but in December, the two organizations will meet.

On Dec. 22, the Canucks will visit the Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. Likewise, the Flyers will walk into a hostile environment at Rogers Arena on Dec. 30. Talk about a New Year’s resolution. How the home fans will react to Tocchet’s return is still a coin toss.