Category Archives: The Dead Pool

Avoiding the Slump: NHL Sophomores Defying Expectations in Year Two

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Young NHL players often face the challenge of sustaining their performance during their second year in the league, known as the “sophomore slump.” This phenomenon can test even the most talented athletes, but some rising stars have turned the narrative around by continuing to excel.

Zach Benson: From Junior Hockey Hopeful to NHL Mainstay

Benson entered the 2023 NHL Draft as a top prospect for the Buffalo Sabres, who selected him in the first round with plans for a season of development in junior hockey. However, Benson defied expectations, earning a full-time spot on the Sabres’ roster and delivering a 30-point rookie campaign. In his sophomore season, Benson aims to elevate his game further with a refined skillset.

Benson posted three goals, three assists, and a plus-1 rating through 17 games. After a five-game scoring drought, he made a strong comeback with two assists in the Sabres’ 4-3 overtime loss to the Vancouver Canucks. He set up Bowen Byram’s first-period goal and Alex Tuch’s game-tying tally in the third. Benson continues to develop his offensive consistency, with flashes of brilliance that highlight his future potential.

Pavel Mintyukov: Emerging as a Defensive Powerhouse

The Anaheim Ducks expected a significant leap from defenseman Pavel Mintyukov in his second season, and he has delivered, becoming a key component of their top-four defensive unit. Mintyukov’s recent performances underscore his value as a versatile blueliner.

Through 20 games, Mintyukov has recorded six points, 26 shots on goal, 35 blocked shots, 16 hits, and a minus-4 rating. His standout game against the Seattle Kraken included an assist, two hits, four blocked shots, and a plus-2 rating in the Ducks’ 5-2 victory. Mintyukov has maintained a steady presence on the second power-play unit and continues to shine in critical situations.

Marco Rossi: A Top-Line Role for a Promising Forward

The Minnesota Wild have entrusted second-year forward Marco Rossi with top-line duties, and he has embraced the responsibility with remarkable performance and poise. His ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute defensively has made him an invaluable asset.

Rossi has seven goals, 18 points, 40 shots on net, and a plus-8 rating over 23 games. He ended a two-game scoring drought by netting a pivotal goal in the Wild’s 3-2 comeback win over the Chicago Blackhawks. With 23 games played, Rossi is well on his way to surpassing his 40-point total from his rookie year.

Carolina Hurricanes Fans and the Sophomore Surge

Carolina Hurricanes fans have an exciting chance to see this season’s NHL sophomores in action as they roll through town, battling to overcome the notorious ‘sophomore slump.’ With top NC sportsbook promos, fans can enhance their game day experience, backing their favorite second-year players while cheering for a home win.

Keep an eye on these rising stars as they hit the ice in Raleigh, showing whether they’ve managed to sidestep the sophomore struggles or continue to shine.

Outlook for NHL Sophomores

The second year is pivotal for NHL players as they transition from rookies to reliable contributors. Benson, Mintyukov, and Rossi exemplify the resilience and talent needed to thrive. Their ability to perform under pressure solidifies their standing as future stars in the league.

For players like Zach Benson, Pavel Mintyukov, and Marco Rossi, maintaining consistency is key. As they continue to refine their skills, their impact on their teams and the league will only grow. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as these sophomores aim to defy the odds and avoid the dreaded slump.

Recap of NHL for 4 December

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Thirty of 32 clubs are represented across the four rosters for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025 as the final 23-player rosters were finalized ahead of a four-game slate across in the NHL.

* Players set to make their way to Bell Centre and TD Garden for the seven games and nine-day tournament from Feb. 12-20 were on full display Wednesday, including Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews who joined rare company in franchise history with two goals in the opening 2:29 of the third period.

* In addition to a meeting between the Kraken and Islanders on ESPN+ and Hulu, a pair of rookies look to continue their strings of success when Macklin Celebrini and Matvei Michkov take to the ice for the Sharks and Flyers, respectively.

4 NATIONS ROSTERS REVEALED AHEAD OF FOUR-GAME WEDNESDAY

The NHL and NHLPA announced the final 23-player rosters selected by the federations, who will represent Canada, Finland, Sweden and the United States at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025. Click here for By the Numbers: 4 Nations Face-Off Rosters (all stats through Dec. 3, 2024).

* Finland’s 28 combined gold medals and championships at the Olympics, World Championship, World Cup of Hockey, World Junior Championship and Under-18 World Championship are the second most among all federations, behind Canada (30). Patrik Laine, who scored in his Canadiens debut on Dec. 3, is responsible for one of those gold medals after he won on home soil at the 2016 World Junior Championship (where he tied Auston Matthews for the tournament lead in goals).

* Sweden – whose roster is represented by a tournament-best 18 NHL clubs – accounts for nine of 32 players who were top-10 selections in the NHL Draft, the most among all federations. Ducks forward Leo Carlsson (No. 2 in 2023), the youngest player named to any roster, owns 18 career goals to date (18-22—40 in 75 GP) – the third most by a Swedish teenager in NHL history behind Gabriel Landeskog (22 in 82 GP) and Lucas Raymond (20 in 66 GP).

* Canada’s roster has 20 combined Stanley Cups, the most of any nation (next closest, FIN: 9), and 15 unique Cup winners, which is also the most of any federation (next closest, FIN: 8). While Sidney Crosby is the only three-time Stanley Cup winner on any roster, Anthony Cirelli and Alex Pietrangelo joined the Penguins captain and Brayden Point as the third and fourth multi-Cup winners. The others on any team: Victor Hedman (Sweden) and Olli Määttä (Finland).

* Jack Hughes and Brady Tkachuk joined their brothers, Quinn and Matthew, on the United States. The 4 Nations Face-Off is set to become the third NHL International Tournament to feature one team with two sets of brothers. The others: Finland at the 2004 World Cup of Hockey (Mikko & Saku Koivu, Jarkko & Tuomo Ruutu) and the United States at the 1984 Canada Cup (Aaron & Neal Broten, Brian & Joe Mullen). NHL International Tournaments include Canada Cup, World Cup of Hockey and 4 Nations Face-Off.

WEDNESDAY’S RESULTS

Three of four games Wednesday watched a team overcome a deficit en route to victory, including the Kings who captured their first multi-goal comeback win of the season.

STARS HEADED TO 4 NATIONS FACE-OFF SHINE BRIGHT

Auston Matthews (2-0—2), Jack Eichel (0-2—2), Mitch Marner (0-3—3) and Brad Marchand (2-0—2) will all take to the ice for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025 and showcased why they were selected to represent their respective countries with a noteworthy performance.

* Matthews, already named to the United States’ initial roster in June and last wore the red, white and blue in 2016 when he scored seven goals in seven games to help secure a bronze medal at the World Junior Championship, tallied his 78th career multi-goal game to help the Maple Leafs (16-7-2, 34 points) rally past the Predators. Matthews, who netted his two tallies within the first 2:29 of the third period, produced his 34th career multi-goal frame – one back of Jeremy Roenick (35) for the second most by an American player in NHL history behind Brett Hull (65).

* Eichel (8-30—38 in 27 GP) and Matthews are no strangers to skating side-by-side after last doing so for Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Eichel assisted on both of Shea Theodore’s goals – who will suit up for Canada – and required the second-fewest games by an American player in NHL history to collect 30 assists in a single season, tied with Pat LaFontaine (27 GP in 1992-93) and Craig Janney (27 GP in 1992-93).

* Marner collected multiple points at Scotiabank Arena for the fifth straight game and became the fifth player in franchise history with at least three career three-assist periods (also Darryl Sittler: 4x, Borje Salming: 4x, Syl Apps: 3x & John Anderson: 3x). The Maple Leafs forward also represented Canada at the 2016 World Junior Championship, where he produced more than a point per game (4-2—6 in 5 GP) and helped his country earn silver at the 2017 World Championship where he ranked second on the team with 4-8—12 in 10 games.

* Marchand led Boston (14-11-3, 31 points) to victory in its third straight game against an Original Six rival and did so with two goals in a span of 2:05. The Bruins captain, who moved into a tie with Patrice Bergeron for the second-most game-winning goals in franchise history, is set to be reunited with Sidney Crosby after the pair were linemates at the World Cup of Hockey 2016; Crosby captained Canada and was named tournament MVP, while Marchand netted the championship-clinching goal.

QUICK CLICKS

* Stars players thrilled to team up for Finland at 4 Nations Face-Off

* Pressure on U.S., Patrik Laine impact for Finland among top 4 Nations Face-Off storylines

* Gustavsson, Markstrom, Ullmark give Sweden ‘tough’ choice at 4 Nations Face-Off

* Kevin Stevens, Matt Cullen return to Pittsburgh for induction to U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame

* “Road to the Discover NHL Winter Classic presented by Enterprise” Premiered on Wednesday night

EIGHTEEN TEAMS IN ACTION ON THURSDAY

A nine-game slate includes Matty Beniers and the Kraken (12-13-1, 25 points) visiting Brock Nelson and the Islanders (9-10-7, 25 points) exclusively on ESPN+ and Hulu as well as Jordan Kyrou and the Blues (12-12-2, 26 points) in action against Nazem Kadri and the Flames (13-9-4, 30 points) on SN1 in Canada.

A few other things of note heading into Thursday:

* The Flyers (12-10-3, 27 points) and Sharks (10-13-5, 25 points) both enter Thursday on a three-game winning streak. The Flyers can record a four-game win streak for the first time this season after having a streak of at least that length four times in 2023-24. The Sharks, meanwhile, can extend a win streak to four games for the first time since 2021-22. Both franchises have had key contributions from their star rookies through the current three-game run: Matvei Michkov in Philadelphia (1-1—2 in 3 GP; 1 GWG) and Macklin Celebrini in San Jose (1-3—4 in 3 GP; 1 GWG).

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* Celebrini can extend his point streak to six games (4-4—8) and become the third 18-year-old in the past 10 years to post a run of the length – he would join Connor McDavid (7 GP in 2015-16) and Patrik Laine (6 GP in 2016-17).

* Lindy Ruff will be coaching in his 1,800th game when the Sabres welcome the Jets and will become the fourth head coach in NHL history to reach the mark. Entering play, his 582 career wins with Buffalo is the second most by a head coach with a single franchise behind Al Arbour (740 w/ NYI).

Recap of NHL for 1 December

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The Bruins’ Centennial Game coincided with the 700th career contest for David Pastrnak, who wore a retro Cooper helmet in warm-up and pocketed one of Boston’s six goals to join a rare list populated by several franchise legends that were in attendance for the festivities Sunday.

* Jake DeBrusk, who was a member of the Bruins organization for nine of their 100 years, capped his second career hat trick with the overtime winner in a game which saw Canucks teammates Kevin Lankinen and Quinn Hughes make NHL and franchise history, respectively.

* Connor Bedard is set to contest his third career game against Auston Matthews when the Blackhawks battle the Maple Leafs during the latest edition of Prime Monday Night Hockey on Prime Video Canada. The rest of the week is set to feature several more national telecasts as well as the unveiling of full 4 Nations Face-Off rosters.

PASTRNAK POTS ONE OF BRUINS’ SIX GOALS DURING CENTENNIAL GAME VICTORY

David Pastrnak scored a goal while skating in his 700th career contest to help the Bruins best their longtime rival during Boston’s Centennial Game at TD Garden.

* Pastrnak (357-393—750 in 700 GP) became the fourth player in franchise history with following Phil Esposito, Bobby Orr and Rick Middleton. Esposito, Orr and Middleton were all in attendance Sunday, as was hockey pioneer Willie O’Ree who could be seen in the Bruins’ epic “Soaring Through History” drone film shared by the team on social media before facing the Canadiens.

* Former Boston forward Johnny Bucyk and Montreal goaltender Ken Dryden were part of the ceremonial puck drop conducted by youth hockey players from Massachusetts and Quebec. Bucyk (9-9—18 in 22 GP) buried nine of his franchise-record 545 goals on Dryden, who went 12-5-5 in those games with a 2.91 goals-against average and .910 save percentage.

DEBRUSK, LANKINEN, HUGHES SHINE IN CANUCKS VICTORY

In a back-and-forth game against the Red Wings that included four game-tying goals (tied for the most in a game this season), Jake DeBrusk (3-1—4) capped his first hat trick as a member of the Canucks with an overtime winner to help Vancouver improve to 10-2-0 as visitors this season, marking the fewest games needed to 10 road wins in franchise history.

* DeBrusk, who became the eighth player in Canucks history to record a regular-season hat trick that included an overtime winner, improved his season totals to 10-9—19 in 23 GP – the only offseason additions with a higher goal total include Stefan Noesen (13 w/ NJD), Jack Roslovic (12 w/ CAR) and Adam Gaudette (12 w/ OTT). With every hat trick this season, AstraZeneca will donate $3,000 to the Hockey Fights Cancer Fund of the V Foundation up to $300,000.

* Kevin Lankinen stopped 27 of 31 shots to become the first goaltender in NHL history to earn wins in each of his first 10 road appearances in a season. Of note, Ilya Samsonov went 10-0-0 through his first 10 road decisions during the 2019-20 campaign (11 GP).

* Quinn Hughes (0-3—3) recorded three assists, including a helper on the overtime winner, to surpass Alexander Edler (310) for the most assists by a defenseman in franchise history – Hughes required 537 fewer games to reach the mark. Hughes already owned Canucks franchise records for assists and points in a season by a defenseman.

Werenski, Marchment, TERRY continue recent success in Live Updates

Sunday’s edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates featured more notes from the five-game slate. Some highlights include:

* Zach Werenski (5-11—16 in 8 GP) recorded his 34th career multi-assist game to climb the franchise’s all-time list and extend his point streak to eight contests, the longest in club history by a defenseman. The Blue Jackets also improved to 5-0-1 in their last six games dating to Nov. 18, their longest point streak since Jan. 18-29, 2021 (4-0-3 in 7 GP).

* Mason Marchment (8-8—16 in 10 GP) tallied the winner in highlight-reel fashion to help Dallas defeat Winnipeg and record his eighth goal in his past 10 games, which are tied for the League lead over that span (w/ Anthony Cirelli, Connor McDavid & Brayden Point). The Stars’ win allowed the idle Wild (16-4-4, 36 points) to pass the Jets (18-7-0, 36 points) for first place in the NHL.

* Troy Terry tallied three assists and his fourth career shootout-deciding goal as the Ducks improved to 3-0-0 in their last three games against the Senators dating to Feb. 15. Terry (0-7—7 in 4 GP), who has seven points in his last four contests, notched his 23rd career multi-assist game to pass Chris Pronger, Bobby Ryan and Rickard Rakell (all w/ 22) for ninth place on the franchise’s all-time list.

QUICK CLICKS

* Bruins’ rich history celebrated at Centennial Game

* Patriots walk in with Bruins jerseys ahead of Centennial Game

* NHL EDGE: Mattias Janmark reaches top skating speed of season

* Stars of the Month: Martin Necas, Mikko Rantanen, Connor Hellebuyck

* Macklin Celebrini named Rookie of the Month for November

PRIME MONDAY NIGHT HOCKEY HAS ORIGINAL SIX SHOWDOWN IN TORONTO

Tonight’s schedule is highlighted by Connor Bedard, Nick Foligno and the Blackhawks visiting William Nylander, Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs during the latest edition of Prime Monday Night Hockey on Prime Video Canada.

* Bedard (5-14—19 in 24 GP) is set to skate in his 25th contest as the reigning Calder Memorial Trophy winner, while Matthews will play his second game since returning to Toronto’s lineup Saturday. Matthews (13-13—26 in 25 GP) had 26 points through his first 25 contests after capturing the Calder Trophy in 2016-17.

* The three-game slate is set to feature other No. 1 picks in the NHL Draft including Jack Hughes and Alexis Lafrenière when the Devils duel the Rangers on NHL Network. Mason Marchment and the Stars square off with Clayton Keller and Utah Hockey Club during the finale.

Week ahead has more national games, unveiling of 4 NATIONS FACE-OFF ROSTERS

More highlights to look forward to during the week ahead:

Tuesday, Dec. 3 – ESPN+ two-pack features Red Wings-Bruins, Oilers-Golden Knights

* An ESPN+ doubleheader opens with Dylan Larkin and the Red Wings battling Brad Marchand, Charlie McAvoy and the Bruins at TD Garden followed by Connor McDavid and the Oilers jousting Jack Eichel and the Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. Each contest is also available on Hulu in the United States and Sportsnet ONE in Canada.

Wednesday, Dec. 4 – Full rosters for 4 Nations Face-Off to be unveiled across two live shows

* After their games on Tuesday, McDavid, Eichel, Marchand and McAvoy are set to learn who the rest of their 4 Nations Face-Off teammates are when the balance of rosters for Canada and the United States will be announced during live pre-game shows on TNT and Sportsnet. The remaining players representing Finland and Sweden will be unveiled earlier in the day during a live show produced by NHL Network and made available globally.

Thursday, Dec. 5 – Several tournament-bound players set to skate during NHL Coast to Coast

* The first gameday after the unveiling of full 4 Nations Face-Off rosters coincides with the return of NHL Coast to Coast, the live whip-around studio show available to viewers on Prime Video Canada starting at 7 p.m. ET. The nine-game slate includes tournament-bound teammates Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk and Gustav Forsling, who have helped Florida outscore opponents by a combined 17-4 margin during its current three-game winning streak.

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Saturday, Dec. 7 – Hockey Night in Canada highlighted by Maple Leafs-Penguins, Blues-Oilers

* Another star-studded Hockey Night in Canada is highlighted by Sidney Crosby and the Penguins pitted against Mitch Marner and the Maple Leafs at PPG Paints Arena as well as Blues teammates Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg facing their former team at Rogers Place. Holloway has three goals and five points since Jim Montgomery was named St. Louis’ head coach.

Necas leads 3 Stars of the Month for November

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NEW YORK – Carolina Hurricanes center Martin Necas, Colorado Avalanche right wing Mikko Rantanen and Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck have been named the NHL’s “Three Stars” for the month of November presented by GEICO.3 Stars of the Month November

FIRST STAR – MARTIN NECAS, C, CAROLINA HURRICANES

Necas led the NHL with 7-15—22 in 15 contests to power the Hurricanes (16-7-1, 33 points) to a 9 5-1 month, highlighted by a 7-1-0 record at Lenovo Center. Necas, who also ranked among the November leaders in power-play points (t-3rd; 9), assists (t-4th; 15), even-strength assists (t-6th; 9), power-play assists (t-6th; 6), power-play goals (t-9th; 3) and even-strength points (t-10th; 13), began the month by extending his point streak to a career-best 13 games (Oct. 22 – Nov. 17: 10-17—27) – including assists in a career-high 10 straight appearances (Oct. 22 – Nov. 11: 7-14—21). Overall, Necas found the score sheet in 12 of Carolina’s 15 November games, producing multiple points seven times and a pair of efforts with at least three points: Nov. 3 vs. WSH (1-2—3) and Nov. 17 vs. STL (2-2—4). The 25-year-old Necas sits second in the League with 12-25—37 through 24 total contests this season. He also places among the 2024-25 leaders in power-play points (1st; 17), power-play assists (t-2nd; 12), game-winning goals (t-3rd; 4), assists (4th; 25) and even-strength assists (t-10th; 13).

STL@CAR: Necas scores his second goal of game in 3rd period

SECOND STAR – MIKKO RANTANEN, RW, COLORADO AVALANCHE

Rantanen shared the League lead with 11 total goals and four game-winning goals across 14 appearances (11-8—19) to guide the Avalanche (13-12-0, 26 points) to an 8-6-0 month. He scored in half of his 14 contests, highlighted by his second hat trick of the season Nov. 13 vs. LAK (3-1—4) as well as a pair of two-goal performances: Nov. 5 vs. SEA (2-0—2) and Nov. 9 vs. CAR (2-1—3). Rantanen, who produced six total multi-point games, additionally finished among the November leaders in even-strength goals (t-1st; 8), even-strength points (t-4th; 14), points (t-8th; 19) and power-play goals (t-9th; 3). The 28-year-old Rantanen, who is slated to represent Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, ranks sixth in the NHL with 15-19—34 through 25 total outings this season. He also places among the top 2024-25 performers in hat tricks (1st; 2), game-winning goals (t-3rd; 4), goals (t-4th; 15), even-strength goals (t 8th; 10), power-play goals (t-8th; 5), even-strength points (t-9th; 22) and power-play points (t-9th; 12).

LAK@COL: Rantanen ties it, grabs the lead and extends the lead with natural hat trick

THIRD STAR – CONNOR HELLEBUYCK, G, WINNIPEG JETS

Hellebuyck paced the NHL in wins, going 8-2-0 with a 2.10 goals-against average, .931 save percentage and two shutouts in 10 starts to help the Jets (18-6-0, 36 points) maintain first place in the overall League standings. Hellebuyck also finished among the top November goaltenders (minimum: 5 GP) in shutouts (t-1st; 2), save percentage (3rd; .931), saves (5th; 282), shots against (6th; 303) and goals-against average (7th; 2.10). He yielded one or fewer goals in half of his 10 appearances, highlighted by a run in which he earned consecutive shutouts (Nov. 5 vs. UTA: 21 SV and Nov. 7 vs. COL: 35 SV) and set a franchise record for the longest shutout sequence (Nov. 3-9: 191:47). The 31-year-old Hellebuyck, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner, has played in 18 total games this season, placing among the League leaders (minimum: 8 GP) in wins (1st; 15), shutouts (1st; 3), goals-against average (2nd; 2.11), save percentage (2nd; .928), saves (3rd; 487) and shots against (3rd; 525).

COL@WPG: Hellebuyck makes 35 saves to earn 40th career shutout

Recap of NHL for 26 Movember

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Kevin Lankinen earned his second shutout of the season and became just the fifth goaltender in NHL history to start a campaign with a road winning streak of eight-plus games.

* Mikhail Sergachev completed Utah Hockey Club’s comeback with an overtime winner and secured yet another day with a come-from-behind victory. All but three days so far in November have featured a team complete a comeback.

* A rare 15-game Wednesday will feature the top two teams in the Atlantic Division clashing on Sportsnet when the Maple Leafs visit the Panthers, as well as the Avalanche welcoming the Golden Knights in the final game of an NHL on TNT doubleheader. That contest will feature two NHL stars – Nathan MacKinnon (CAN) and Jack Eichel (USA) – going head-to-head for the 18th meeting and last time until the pair meet at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February.

LANKINEN, CANUCKS EXTEND ROAD WINNING STREAK

Jake DeBrusk scored against his former club and Kevin Lankinen made 32 saves in a shutout performance to help the Canucks improve to 8-0-0 in their last eight games as visitors – the longest run by any team this season. Vancouver tied its second-longest road winning streak in franchise history (also 8 GP in 2003-04) and trail a 9-0-0 record set in 2010-11. With the victory, the Canucks (11-6-3, 25 points) leaped into third in the Pacific Division.

* Lankinen, who recorded his second shutout of the season which trails only Connor Hellebuyck (3) for the most among all netminders, required the fourth-fewest games in Canucks history to record multiple shutouts with the franchise (15 GP). He trails Eddie Lack (7 GP in 2013-14), Johan Hedberg (8 GP in 2003-04) and Glen Hanlon (13 GP in 1977-78 – 1978-79).

* DeBrusk improved his season totals to 6-8—14 (20 GP) as he was welcomed back to Boston after being selected 14th overall by the Bruins in 2015. He went on to play his first seven seasons with the club where he amassed the fifth-most points by a Bruins player over that span (138-128—266 in 465 GP). He is currently on pace for a career-high 57 points.

SERGACHEV SCORES OVERTIME WINNER IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES

Tuesday’s #NHLStats: Live Updates featured all four teams in action, including Mikhail Sergachev who scored his first overtime winner and helped Utah Hockey Club earn their third comeback victory. All but three days this month have featured a comeback win, amounting to 44% of games played in November (78 of 179). Overall, 42% of all contests in 2024-25 have been comeback wins (145 of 345), equal to the five-season average at this stage of a campaign (42% from 2019-20 to 2023-24).

QUICK CLICKS

* Timo Meier of Devils suspended 1 game for cross-checking

* Harbaugh brothers share funny childhood story about Bobby Orr

* NHL EDGE stats: Jaccob Slavin reaches top skating speed by defenseman this season

* NHL EDGE stats: Defenseman trio elevating Sabres into contention

30 TEAMS IN ACTION AHEAD OF THANKSGIVING IN THE U.S.

Nearly every team will be in action Wednesday with 15 games set on the eve of U.S. Thanksgiving – a slate highlighted by two national broadcasts on Sportsnet for viewers across Canada comprised of the top two clubs in the Atlantic Division clashing when the Maple Leafs (13-6-2, 28 points) visit the Panthers (12-9-1, 25 points), as well as the Blue Jackets (9-9-2, 20 points) taking on the Canadiens (7-11-3, 17 points). In the U.S., a doubleheader on TNT will begin with the Lightning (11-7-2, 24 points) welcoming the Capitals (14-6-1, 29 points) before the Pacific Division-leading Golden Knights (14-6-2, 30 points) and Avalanche (12-10-0, 24 points) go head-to-head.

* Florida (5-2-3, 13 points) and Toronto (5-2-3, 13 points) have evenly split their last 10 regular-season matchups with both teams having totaled 33 goals for and 33 goals against. The Panthers’ five regulation plus overtime wins is one more than the Maple Leafs (4) over that span. The contest could feature as many as five players who have already been named to the 4 Nations Face-Off roster should Auston Matthews (USA) make his return to the lineup, with the others including Matthew Tkachuk (USA), William Nylander (SWE), Gustav Forsling (SWE) and Aleksander Barkov (FIN). The full rosters will be released in exactly one week.

* Montreal has won each of its previous six contests against the Blue Jackets dating to Nov. 23, 2022 – the last time the Canadiens had a longer run versus an opponent was an eight-game streak against the Canucks from Nov. 16, 2015 to Dec. 17, 2019. Columbus has a winning streak of its own after having won each of its past three games and should they earn a victory Wednesday it would be the club’s longest since Feb 17-24, 2022 (4 GP).

* NHL on TNT’s doubleheader will begin with Anthony Cirelli aiming to extend the League’s longest goal streak of the season to seven games and would tie the third longest in franchise history. Nikita Kucherov (8 GP in 2021-22) and Brian Bradley (8 GP in 1992-93) sit tied for the lengthiest. Across the ice, Washington’s Logan Thompson (9-1-1) could become the eighth goaltender this season to record a double-digit win total (7 entering play Nov. 27) and could tie the franchise mark for fewest games to 10 wins with the Capitals, achieved by Cristobal Huet (12 GP in 2007-08) and Bob Mason (12 GP between 1983-84 – 1984-85).

* Two of the NHL’s top scoring leaders will face off in the final game on NHL on TNT when

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Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon (7-28—35 in 22 GP; t-1st) faces off against Vegas’ Jack Eichel (8-26—34 in 22 GP; t-3rd) – the 18th all-time meeting between the two stars. MacKinnon is on pace for his third straight 100-point season – a feat only one player in Avalanche/Nordiques history has accomplished (Peter Stastny: 6 from 1980-81 – 1985-86); meanwhile, Eichel is on pace for his first 100-point campaign and would become the first Golden Knights player to achieve the feat.

Recap of NHL for 25 Movember

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Brandon Hagel joined Nathan MacKinnon as the second player with a five-assist outing in 2024-25, but did so in rarer fashion by collecting four of them in the opening frame – tied for the most in a first period in NHL history.

* Martin Necas scored a late winner to help the Hurricanes become one of 10 teams to earn a comeback win Monday, one shy of the most on a single day in NHL history.

* Nico Hischier netted a natural hat trick in New Jersey’s win, accounting for three of 80 goals scored across an 11-game slate. Overall, Monday averaged 7.3 goals per game – the only day this season to feature a higher average (min. 5 GP) was Oct. 14 (7.8 G/GP).

* A pair of historic hockey teams will be in action on Founders Day when the Bruins host the Canucks and the Canadiens welcome Utah as the NHL celebrates the 107th anniversary of its founding.

HAGEL’S CAREER NIGHT PROPELS OPENING-PERIOD OUTBURST IN TAMPA BAY

Brandon Hagel (0-5—5) collected four of his franchise-record tying five assists in the first period to match the NHL benchmark for most in an opening frame – achieved by eight others in the past 40 years – and helped the Lightning (11-7-2, 24 points) join the Senators as the second team with multiple eight-goal performances this season.

* Four of Hagel’s five helpers were also primary assists, tied with Mark Recchi (March 1, 2009), Martin St. Louis (Nov. 18, 2010), Yanni Gourde (April 8, 2021) and Victor Hedman (Oct. 14, 2021) for the most by a Lightning player in a single game. The only active players to record more in a single contest are Patrick Kane (5 on March 8, 2022), Mark Stone (5 on March 1, 2021) and Artemi Panarin (5 on Dec. 8, 2017).

* Tampa Bay had seven unique goal scorers Monday – one shy of the most in a single game in franchise history (8 on Nov. 14, 2019). Two other teams have had seven unique goal scorers in a single contest this season: Winnipeg (7 on Nov. 3) and Seattle (7 on Oct. 15).

NECAS, AHO LIFT COMEBACK CANES TO EIGHTH STRAIGHT WIN ON HOME ICE

Martin Necas (1-1—2) factored on two of five Carolina goals in the third period, including scoring the game winner with 2:07 on the clock, and Sebastian Aho (1-3—4) posted his first four-point outing in nearly a year to help the Hurricanes surge back from a multi-goal deficit and extend their home winning streak to eight contests – the third-longest run in franchise history. It marked the club’s second multi-goal, third-period comeback win of the season, tied with the Flyers for the most among all teams.

* Aho kickstarted the comeback 1:10 into the final frame and recorded his 147th career multi-point game, passing Esa Tikkanen (146) for ninth most among all Finnish-born skaters in NHL history. Aho also notched his 10th career four-point game and tied Blaine Stoughton for third most in franchise history.

* Necas (12-23—35 in 21 GP) extended his home point streak to eight games, collecting 6-12—18 during his club’s win streak, and matched Nathan MacKinnon (7-28—35 in 22 GP) for the League lead in points. Necas became the first Hurricanes player to lead the NHL in scoring (outright or tied, min. 20 GP) since his head coach Rod Brind’Amour was tied with Marian Hossa on Nov. 18, 2006.

COMEBACK WINS TAKE CENTER STAGE DURING 11-GAME MONDAY

The Sharks, Senators, Golden Knights, Blues and Jets were five of 10 teams to earn a comeback win during Monday’s 11-game slate, matching the highest total on a single day since Oct. 24, 2023. The only day in NHL history to feature more was Oct. 29, 2005 (11).

* Trailing 2-1, Macklin Celebrini (2-1—3) factored on three of San Jose’s next six goals, including scoring two in the third period, and became the second 18-year-old in franchise history with a three-point game, joining Patrick Marleau (March 5, 1998). Only five players in the past 15 years have recorded a three-point outing at a younger age than Celebrini (18 years, 165 days), while just three active players have tallied twice in a period at a younger age (Connor Bedard, Nathan MacKinnon & Sidney Crosby).

* After the Flames took a 1-0 lead, the Senators rallied to a comeback win on Prime Monday Night Hockey with the help of captain Brady Tkachuk, who collected an assist and scored the game winner. Tkachuk recorded his 95th career multi-point game and surpassed Marian Hossa (94 GP) for sixth place on the Senators all-time list.

* The Golden Knights trailed 3-0 through the first 20:28 of play, but Jack Eichel (1-1—2) scored in his third straight road game to jumpstart the Vegas offense and later registered the only goal in the shootout to guide his club to the fourth three-goal comeback win in franchise history (also April 14, 2024 vs. COL, March 26, 2022 vs. CHI & Jan. 4, 2020 vs. STL). Eichel (8-26—34 in 22 GP) now sits one game shy of the longest road goal streak in franchise history (Shea Theodore: 4 GP in 2021-22, Max Pacioretty: 4 GP in 2019-20 & Jonathan Marchessault: 4 GP in 2017-18).

* In his first game since taking over the Blues bench, Jim Montgomery became the sixth head coach in franchise history to earn a comeback win in his team debut, joining Mike Yeo (, Mike Keenan (Jan. 20, 1995, Bob Berry (Oct. 31, 1992), Jacques Martin (Oct. 9, 1986) and Barclay Plager (Feb. 18, 1978).

* Connor Hellebuyck (43 saves) recorded his first 40-save performance of the season en route to his 15th win of 2024-25. Hellebuyck helped the Jets (18-4-0, 36 points) gain a six-point edge over the Wild (13-4-4, 30 points) for top spot in the Western Conference as Winnipeg won its seventh straight contest against Minnesota dating to April 11, 2023 – the club’s second-longest run versus one opponent (8 GP vs. ANA).

HISCHIER NETS NATURAL HAT TRICK TO HELP NEW JERSEY TO VICTORY

Nico Hischier scored a hat trick – with all three goals coming in consecutive fashion during the second period – to help lift the Devils to a third straight victory and an NHL-best 8-2-0 record over their past 10 games. The New Jersey captain became the fourth player in the past 15 years to score a natural hat trick with the club, alongside Jack Hughes (Nov. 26, 2022), Brian Boyle (Nov. 5, 2018) and Michael Cammalleri (Nov. 6, 2016).

* Hischier also became the fifth Swiss-born player to score a hat trick, joining Timo Meier (5x), Nino Niederreiter (3x), Kevin Fiala (2x) and Pius Suter (2x), and the first to do it in natural fashion. With every hat trick this season, AstraZeneca donates $3,000 to the Hockey Fights Cancer Fund of the V Foundation up to $300,000.

QUICK CLICKS

* NHL mourns the passing of referee Mike Hasenfratz

* #NHLStats: Live Updates – Nov. 25

* Brock Boeser hopes to return for Canucks against Bruins

* Canada final projected roster for 4 Nations Face-Off

* Zach Werenski, Mikko Rantanen, Joseph Woll named “Three Stars” of the Week

HISTORIC HOCKEY CITIES BOSTON, MONTREAL HOST ON FOUNDERS DAY

On the 107th anniversary of the National Hockey League’s founding, two of its more historic franchises will host the only games Tuesday. In Montreal, the NHL’s oldest franchise, the Canadiens, welcome its newest franchise, the Utah Hockey Club, to the city where the League was officially founded. In Boston, the NHL’s first U.S.-based franchise, the Bruins, will be visited by the Canucks, the team they defeated to win their most recent Stanley Cup in 2011. On Dec. 1, the Canadiens will visit the Bruins for Boston’s Centennial Game, marking the 100-year anniversary of the franchise’s first game against the Montreal Maroons on Dec. 1, 1924.

* The two historic hockey towns will be in the spotlight again in February, when the cities team up to host the 4 Nations Face-Off, starting with four games in Montreal from Feb. 12-15, followed by a Presidents’ Day doubleheader in Boston on Feb. 17 as well as the championship game Feb. 20. Full rosters for Canada, Finland, Sweden and the United States will be unveiled Dec 4. Bruins players Brad Marchand (Canada) and Charlie McAvoy (United States) were among the first six players selected for their respective countries, as was Canucks captain Quinn Hughes (United States).

* The National Hockey League was founded on Nov. 26, 1917, at the Windsor Hotel in Montreal, following three days of meetings involving owners from the National Hockey Association – which had suspended operations weeks earlier. As noted in the meeting minutes, the owners decided “that the Canadiens, Wanderers, Ottawa and Quebec Hockey Clubs unite to comprise the National Hockey League.”

* Quebec’s entry into the NHL was delayed until 1919-20, but Toronto was granted a franchise and the League began with four clubs – the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Wanderers, Ottawa Senators and Toronto Arenas. The League’s first contests were played on Dec. 19, 1917.

* Along with the announcement of the NHL’s formation 107 years ago came the election of Frank Calder as the League’s first president (and secretary). Calder held the role for more than 25 years until his death during the 1942-43 season.

* Learn more in an article published in 2017 in celebration of the League’s 100th anniversary or watch this video for a deeper look.