New York Rangers general manager Chris Drury affirmed the club will pull out all the stops to ens...

<p>New York Rangers general manager Chris Drury affirmed the club will pull out all the stops to ensure star goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8558" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8558">Igor Shesterkin</a> remains in Manhattan for as long as possible. </p><p>"We're going to do everything we can to make sure he's here for a long time," Drury said Tuesday, per <a href="https://x.com/Peter_Baugh/status/1836058800836452513">The Athletic's Peter Baugh</a>. </p><p>Shesterkin is entering the final season of his current contract and has been eligible to sign an extension since July 1. Drury didn't offer an update on negotiations, but it's a safe bet Shesterkin will earn a substantial raise over the $5.66-million cap hit he's carried since 2021. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Shesterkin leads the NHL in wins (109) and save percentage (.921) and ranks second in goals saved above expected (82.38) since he signed his current deal. The 28-year-old won the Vezina Trophy and was a Hart Trophy finalist in 2022, and he owns a .928 clip in 44 career playoff contests.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a> ($10 million), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3907" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3907">Andrei Vasilevskiy</a> ($9.5 million), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3997" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> ($8.5 million) are the NHL's three highest-paid goalies. The Rangers are projected to have nearly $30 million in cap space prior to the 2025-26 season but only have 10 players signed, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/new-york-rangers">PuckPedia</a>.</p><p>Another key Blueshirt eligible for a new deal is 2020 first overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9195" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9195">Alexis Lafreniere</a>. Drury is hopeful to lock up the forward long term as well.</p><p>"In our eyes, he continues to get better and better," Drury said, per <a href="https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/1836064558017880218">USA Today's Vince Z. Mercogliano</a>. "I'm not going to get into negotiations, but he certainly is an exciting young piece for us and one that we hope, just like Igor, is here for a long time."</p>

SUNRISE, FL - JUNE 01: New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) makes a save in the third period during game six of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Ranges and the Florida Panthers on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Fla.

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Drury: Rangers will do 'everything we can' to sign Shesterkin long term

Divisions: Central | Pacific | Atlantic (Thursday)  With the 2024-25 NHL season approaching, we'r...

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NHL offseason grades: Metropolitan Division

Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet is anticipating a more difficult path to success this s...

<p>Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet is anticipating a more difficult path to success this season after his club's breakout 2023-24 campaign. </p><p>"We made strides (last season). ... But if we only do the same thing we did last year, we're going to get the same result," Tocchet told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/tocchet-prepared-to-push-canucks-through-harder-season-with-expectations-higher/">Sportsnet's Iain MacIntyre</a>. "So, our expectations have to be higher, and we have to embrace that it's going to be harder."</p><p>Vancouver won the Pacific Division with 109 points last season and reached the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The surge in the standings resulted in Tocchet winning the Jack Adams Award, but he recognizes how difficult it can be for a team to sustain success.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This year's expectations are higher, and it's going to be harder," Tocchet said. "So, the two things for me: How are we going to handle expectations? And how do we condition ourselves that it's going to be hard?"</p><p>The Canucks boasted the sixth-ranked offense in 2023-24 but were a strong team in all facets of the game. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> won the Norris Trophy and goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a> was nominated for the Vezina Trophy. However, an injury to Demko in the first round of the playoffs hindered the club's championship aspirations despite reaching Game 7 of the second round with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10508" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10508">Arturs Silovs</a> between the pipes.</p><p>Vancouver lost some key contributors - namely <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3001" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3001">Elias Lindholm</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3174" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3174">Nikita Zadorov</a> - in free agency but added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4639" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4639">Jake DeBrusk</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5547" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5547">Danton Heinen</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4711" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4711">Daniel Sprong</a> in an effort to bolster an offense that dried up in the playoffs. </p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - MARCH 2: Head coach Rick Tocchet of the Vancouver Canucks looks on from the bench during their NHL game against the Minnesota Wild at Rogers Arena March 2, 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Tocchet: 'It's going to be harder' for Canucks to meet expectations this season

New Senators forward Nick Cousins is confident his championship pedigree will help Ottawa get bac...

<p>New Senators forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2113" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2113">Nick Cousins</a> is confident his championship pedigree will help Ottawa get back into the playoff mix.</p><p>"It was important for me to find the right fit and to come to a team where I know I can help out and have a role," Cousins told <a href="https://ottawacitizen.com/ottawa-senators/nick-cousins-wants-to-help-the-ottawa-senators-make-the-next-step">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>. "With the two Cup runs I've been on in the last two years and playing in the final, I think I can help this young group of guys."</p><p>The Senators signed Cousins to a one-year, $800,000 contract in late August to shore up their depth up front. The 31-year-old reached back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals with the Florida Panthers, winning a title this past spring.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ottawa hasn't made the playoffs since 2017 and has big expectations to end its postseason drought after an active offseason.</p><p>"I've been in some high-pressure situations and high-pressure games," Cousins said. "That's what we're going to go through here when the season gets going here, then into March and April when we're playing in playoff-game-like atmospheres. We'll be going into tough buildings when the emotions are high, and just to be in the room and help these guys, knowing they already have tremendous leaders with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/911">(Claude) Giroux</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady (Tkachuk)</a>, and those guys.</p><p>"I really think I can help out in that area, plus with my play, I can give them better depth. I can just try to help out wherever they need me."</p><p>Before bringing in Cousins, the Senators signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> to be their new No. 1 netminder and acquired veteran forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1097" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1097">David Perron</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4091" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4091">Michael Amadio</a>. Ottawa also hired Travis Green to be its new head coach.</p><p>"All their young guys are a year older, and with Travis Green coming in - and I got a chance to talk to him before I signed - this group is super hungry and is excited for the season to get going," Cousins said.</p><p>Cousins has played 10 NHL seasons split between the Philadelphia Flyers, Arizona Coyotes, Montreal Canadiens, Vegas Golden Knights, Nashville Predators, and Panthers. He's notched 180 points in 592 career games. </p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 22: Nick Cousins #21 of the Florida Panthers reacts during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena on February 22, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Cousins: 'I can help' Senators take next step

Johnny Gaudreau's wife, Meredith, took to Instagram on Saturday to share a collection of touching...

<p>Johnny Gaudreau's wife, Meredith, took to Instagram on Saturday to share a collection of touching photographs in memory of her husband.</p><p>Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, were killed Thursday after they were struck by a car while riding bicycles.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VNIC_Rry5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VNIC_Rry5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VNIC_Rry5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Meredith Gaudreau (@meredithgaudreau_)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>"Thank you for the best years of my life," the caption reads. "Despite losing you, I am still the luckiest girl in the world to have been yours. I love you so so much. You were perfect. Some days it felt too good to be true. I love every single thing about you. You are my forever and I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you so much forever and ever."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>She shared more pictures of Gaudreau with their two children. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VOITPxjt3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VOITPxjt3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C_VOITPxjt3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Meredith Gaudreau (@meredithgaudreau_)</a></p>
</div></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>"The absolute best dad in the world. So caring and loving. The best partner to go through parenthood with. John never missed a single appointment. Was the best at putting the baby to sleep and the apple of Noa’s eye. I love how much she looks like him. We are going to make you proud. We love you so so so much daddy."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3063883" href="https://thescore.com/news/3063883">Tributes</a> from across the sports world poured in on Friday after the Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the tragic news.</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - AUGUST 31: A makeshift memorial grows outside Nationwide Arena for Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau at Nationwide Arena on August 31, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Johnny Gaudreau's widow pays tribute: 'My forever'

The Carolina Hurricanes and restricted free-agent forward Seth Jarvis agreed on an eight-year con...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes and restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> agreed on an eight-year contract worth $7.5 million per season due to deferred money, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>The annual average value of the contract would traditionally be $7.9 million, but the Hurricanes will award Jarvis a deferred-money signing bonus on July 1, 2032 - the day after the contract expires - to lower the cap hit. The max-term pact includes a total of $29.24 million in bonuses.</p><p>NHL central registry and the NHLPA signed off on the structure of the contract, <a href="https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/sources-hurricanes-and-seth-jarvis-agree-to-63-2-million-contract-with-unique-deferred-structure">Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli</a> notes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Seth is a cornerstone player for our franchise," said general manager Eric Tulsky. "He took another huge step last season, playing in all situations and displaying the skill and competitive drive that will make him a star in this league in the years to come."</p><p>Jarvis was Carolina's last remaining unsigned player. The Hurricanes had $6.4 million in cap space before the deal, per <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/carolina-hurricanes">PuckPedia</a>, but can gain an additional $2.4 million in flexibility by placing forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2573" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2573">Jesper Fast</a> - who was recently ruled out for the 2024-25 season - on long-term injured reserve. </p><p>Jarvis' entry-level contract expired this summer. The 2020 13th overall pick broke out in a big way in 2023-24, setting career highs in goals (33), points (67), and average ice time (18:45). He also finished in the top 10 in Selke Trophy voting due to sterling defensive metrics.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 07: Seth Jarvis #24 of the Carolina Hurricanes shoots the puck during the third period against the New York Rangers in Game Two of the Second Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 07, 2024 in New York City.

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Hurricanes sign Jarvis to bonus-laden 8-year deal

Tributes from throughout the hockey world poured in Friday after the sudden death of Columbus Blu...

COLUMBUS, OHIO - OCTOBER 28: Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets warms up before a game against the New York Islanders at Nationwide Arena on October 28, 2023 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Hockey world pays tribute to Gaudreau brothers

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, died in an "unima...

<p>Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, died in an "unimaginable tragedy," the team confirmed Friday.</p><p>Johnny and Matthew were killed after being hit by a car Thursday evening while riding bicycles, New Jersey State Police confirmed to the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnny-gaudreau-35de1641d040f02ecd83a9638e6aca32">Associated Press</a>. Police said a car hit the brothers from behind when the driver attempted to pass two other vehicles.</p><p>Police added that the driver was suspected of being under the influence and charged with two counts of death by auto.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Johnny was not only a great hockey player but, more significantly, a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family, and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew," the Blue Jackets <a href="https://x.com/BlueJacketsNHL/status/1829481858968535120">said</a> in a statement.</p><p>"Johnny played the game with great joy, which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="fr" dir="ltr">Johnny Gaudreau<br>Aug. 13, 1993 – Aug. 29, 2024 <a href="https://t.co/QGPsV4v7mv">pic.twitter.com/QGPsV4v7mv</a></p>— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJacketsNHL/status/1829484156679520286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Johnny turned 31 earlier in August. He played 11 NHL seasons and joined the Blue Jackets as a free agent prior to the 2022-23 season following a prolific stint with the Flames. The New Jersey native notched 743 points in 764 career games and earned a first-team All-Star nod in 2022 and the 2017 Lady Byng Trophy as the league's most gentlemanly player.</p><p>Matthew was 29. He played four seasons at Boston College - Johnny's alma mater - followed by stints in the AHL and ECHL.</p><p>"Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons- and brothers-in-law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends, but truly two amazing humans," Johnny and Matthew's uncle, Jim, wrote in a <a href="https://x.com/Buccigross/status/1829556348608008256">statement</a>. </p><p>"We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support, and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief."</p><p>NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement that he's "shocked and saddened" by the Gaudreau brothers' deaths and highlighted Johnny's attributes on and off the ice.</p><p>"While Johnny's infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname 'Johnny Hockey,' he was more than just a dazzling hockey player," Bettman said. "He was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path."</p>

COLUMBUS, OHIO - APRIL 1: Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets warms up prior to a game against the Colorado Avalanche at Nationwide Arena on April 1, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Blue Jackets' Johnny Gaudreau dies at 31

Carolina Hurricanes forward Jesper Fast will miss the entire 2024-25 campaign after undergoing ne...

<p>Carolina Hurricanes forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2573" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2573">Jesper Fast</a> will miss the entire 2024-25 campaign after undergoing neck surgery earlier this month, the team announced. </p><p>The 32-year-old was injured during Carolina's final game last season and missed the club's entire playoff run. The Hurricanes were eliminated by the New York Rangers in the second round. </p><p>Fast has one season remaining on his current contract at a cap hit of $2.4 million. He can be placed on long-term injured reserve before the season begins, which will free up additional money for the Hurricanes to sign star restricted free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Fast has spent the past four years with the Hurricanes after a seven-year tenure with the Rangers to begin his career. He notched 19 points in 73 contests last season while averaging over 12 minutes per contest.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 04: Jesper Fast #71 of the Carolina Hurricanes warms up prior to a game against the Boston Bruins at PNC Arena on April 4, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurricanes' Fast to miss season after neck surgery

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Arturs Silovs is expected to be healthy for September training camp ...

<p>Vancouver Canucks goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10508" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10508">Arturs Silovs</a> is expected to be healthy for September training camp after sustaining a knee injury while preparing for an Olympic qualifying tournament, Latvia head coach Rudolfs Kalvitis confirmed to <a href="https://x.com/DhaliwalSports/status/1829199769140691426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1829199769140691426%7Ctwgr%5E451d3c9c7d7d590f9ae82c558eea56a41bfc9af4%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sportsnet.ca%2Fnhl%2Farticle%2Freport-canucks-silovs-pulled-out-latvias-olympic-qualifier-with-minor-knee-injury%2F">CHEK Television's Rick Dhaliwal</a>.</p><p>Latvia pulled Silovs from the roster ahead of its first game as the netminder deals with knee inflammation. Latvia is competing with Ukraine, France, and Slovenia this week for a spot in the 2026 Milan Olympics.</p><p>The Canucks are already dealing with question marks in the crease, as starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5557" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a> reportedly won't be ready for training camp due to a knee injury of his own.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Silovs was projected to start the 2024-25 campaign as Vancouver's backup. He emerged as the club's surprise No. 1 in the playoffs this past spring after Demko and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5798" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5798">Casey DeSmith</a> were injured. Silovs went 5-5 in the postseason with a 2.91 goals against average and an .898 save percentage before falling to the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7 of the second round.</p><p>The Canucks signed Silovs to a two-year, $1.7-million contract in the offseason.</p>

NASHVILLE, TN - APRIL 28: The artwork on the mask of Vancouver Canucks goalie Arturs Silovs (31) is shown during Game Four of the First Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Nashville Predators and Vancouver Canucks, held on April 28, 2024, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Canucks' Silovs expected to be at camp after injury at Olympic qualifying

Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman said he better prepared himself for negotiations after th...

<p>Boston Bruins goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9893" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9893">Jeremy Swayman</a> said he better prepared himself for negotiations after the arbitration process took a toll on him last summer.</p><p>"If you were to ask me that question a year ago, I would answer truthfully, and I would say it's scary," Swayman said on the effect of contract negotiations during an appearance on the "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6PfBu1oaKU">Shut Up Marc Podcast</a>."</p><p>"It's a lot of resentment towards people that want you to succeed, and when you're not getting compensated for your endless efforts and doing what you do best, it's a nerve-wracking feeling. Because it's your family you're fighting for."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Swayman was awarded a one-year, $3.48-million contract in arbitration last year. As a restricted free agent again in 2024, Swayman's in prime position for a bigger deal. He emerged as the Bruins' No. 1 netminder last season, and Boston, which currently has over $8 million in cap space, traded goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> over the summer.</p><p>"And the answer I'm going to give you this year is that I've educated myself and that I understand the business side of it all," Swayman added. "It's given me a complete new mindset of understanding the business and how to react to it. I understand the cap is going up, and where it will be in years. I understand my comparables, and how I can't ruin the goalie market for other guys that are going to be in my shoes down the line."</p><p>Both Swayman and Bruins coach Jim Montgomery have recently expressed confidence in a deal being reached by the time training camp opens in September.</p><p>Swayman is coming off an impressive campaign in which he posted a .916 save percentage in 44 regular-season appearances. He was even better in the playoffs, registering a .933 clip before the Bruins were eliminated in the second round by the Florida Panthers.</p><p>Boston drafted Swayman in the fourth round in 2017. He made his NHL debut during the 2020-21 season. </p>

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - MAY 14: Goaltender Jeremy Swayman #1 of the Boston Bruins warms in up in net prior to the start of the game against the Florida Panthers in Game Five of the Second Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Amerant Bank Arena on May 14, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Swayman 'educated' himself after 'scary' RFA process last year

Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz says discussions ramped up after reports surfaced...

<p>Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz says discussions ramped up after reports surfaced of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9205" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9205">Yaroslav Askarov</a>'s trade request.</p><p>The young goaltender was dealt to the San Jose Sharks on Friday, four days after ESPN's Kevin Weekes reported that Askarov wanted out of Nashville and wouldn't report to AHL Milwaukee if he failed to make the Predators out of camp.</p><p>"When he asked for the trade request, just privately, he said he would be a good soldier and all that," Trotz said, per <a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/nhl/predators/2024/08/23/nashville-predators-trade-yaroslav-askarov-sharks-barry-trotz/74925918007/">The Tennessean's Alex Daugherty</a>. "Then he came out public and said he wouldn't have much interest in that."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trotz, who initially disputed the rumors, ultimately moved Askarov to San Jose for <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13848">David Edstrom</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11080">Magnus Chrona</a>, and a 2025 conditional first-round pick.</p><p>"We talked about exploring some things, working together to see where this process would go through training camp," Trotz said. "But once it became public, it pushed to a different place in terms of the decision time."</p><p>Trotz continued: "Then if you don't trade him, there's always going to be noise. We've got a really good vibe from what we did last year. I didn't want there to be something that sucked the air out of that."</p><p>The Predators reached the playoffs last season with a second-half surge, then made a huge splash in free agency by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2870" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2870">Jonathan Marchessault</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4511" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4511">Brady Skjei</a>. Nashville also inked starting goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4571" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4571">Juuse Saros</a> to an eight-year extension, prompting several teams around the league to inquire about Askarov's availability.</p><p>Trotz noted there were four other teams who were "serious possibilities" in the Askarov sweepstakes before a deal was struck with the Sharks.</p>

MONTREAL, CANADA - JANUARY 12: Yaroslav Askarov #30 of the Nashville Predators tends net in his first career NHL game during the second period against the Montreal Canadiens at Centre Bell on January 12, 2023 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Montreal Canadiens defeated the Nashville Predators 4-3.

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Trotz: Askarov deal moved fast after trade request went public

Robert MacIntyre withdrew from the BMW Championship during the third round Saturday due to a lowe...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4894" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/4894">Robert MacIntyre</a> withdrew from the BMW Championship during the third round Saturday due to a lower-back injury, the TOUR announced.</p><p>MacIntyre was well off the lead after opening his tournament with scores of 72 and 71. However, he remains in good position to qualify for next week's TOUR Championship at East Lake. The top 30 on the season-long points list make it to the finale, and the Scotsman is projected to be 21st.</p><p>MacIntyre, 28, collected the first two wins of his career this season with victories at the Canadian Open and Scottish Open.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>World No. 6 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1977" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1977">Hideki Matsuyama</a> also withdrew from the tournament due to a back injury Friday.</p>

CASTLE ROCK, COLORADO - AUGUST 24: Robert MacIntyre of Scotland lines up a putt on the third green during the third round of the BMW Championship at Castle Pines Golf Club on August 24, 2024 in Castle Rock, Colorado.

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MacIntyre withdraws from BMW Championship with back injury

The Nashville Predators traded goaltender Yaroslav Askarov, forward Nolan Burke, and a 2025 third...

<p>The Nashville Predators traded goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9205" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9205">Yaroslav Askarov</a>, forward Nolan Burke, and a 2025 third-round pick to the San Jose Sharks for forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13848" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13848">David Edstrom</a>, goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11080" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11080">Magnus Chrona</a>, and a 2025 conditional first-round pick, the teams announced Friday.</p><p>San Jose then signed Askarov to a two-year extension worth $2 million annually, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/player/yaroslav-askarov">PuckPedia</a>. He has one more season remaining on his current pact with a $925,000 cap hit and could have become a restricted free agent once it expired.</p><p>"It's a really big day for our franchise," Sharks general manager Mike Grier said, per <a href="https://x.com/CurtisPashelka/status/1827107146884116504">The Mercury News' Curtis Pashelka</a>. "To have an opportunity to add Askarov to our group is really exciting. I think it kind of breathes some more positive energy into the group."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The pick headed Nashville's way originally belonged to the Vegas Golden Knights. If Vegas' selection next year is a top-10 selection, San Jose has the right to transfer either its pick or its division rival's to Nashville.</p><p>Askarov reportedly requested to be traded and said he wouldn't report to AHL Milwaukee if he didn't make the Predators. Nashville <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3056364" href="https://thescore.com/news/3056364">disputed</a> the rumor Monday, and general manager Barry Trotz said he expected the netminder at training camp in September.</p><p>Grier said he doesn't expect there to be an issue if Askarov has to report to the AHL's San Jose Barracuda to start the campaign, per <a href="https://x.com/Sheng_Peng/status/1827105194855035139">NBC Sports' Sheng Peng</a>.</p><p>Several teams called about Askarov's availability over the summer after the Predators inked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4571" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4571">Juuse Saros</a> to an eight-year extension. Nashville also signed veteran backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1794">Scott Wedgewood</a> in free agency, potentially blocking Askarov's path to an NHL role this season.</p><p>The Montreal Canadiens and New Jersey Devils were among the teams to recently inquire about Askarov, <a href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1827073142172402034">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a> notes.</p><p>Askarov was the 11th overall pick in 2020 and is widely considered one of the league's top goaltending prospects. He's made three NHL appearances over the past two seasons and has posted a .911 save percentage in back-to-back years in the minors.</p><p>The 22-year-old will compete with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4035" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4035">Vitek Vanecek</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4779" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4779">Mackenzie Blackwood</a> for playing time in San Jose's crease this coming campaign.</p><p>The Sharks finished dead last in the NHL in 2023-24.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 30: Nashville Predators goaltender Yaroslav Askarov (30) makes a save during the Nashville Predators game versus the Washington Capitals on December 30, 2023 at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

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Predators trade Askarov to Sharks in 4-player deal

The AHL board of governors unanimously approved mandatory cut-resistant neck protection for the 2...

<p>The AHL board of governors unanimously approved mandatory cut-resistant neck protection for the 2024-25 season, the league announced Friday. </p><p>All skaters, referees, and linespersons will be required to wear approved protection regardless of experience level. Cut-resistant socks and wrist sleeves were mandated for players and officials last season. </p><p>Adam Johnson, a former AHL and NHL player, died last year after his neck was cut by a skate during a game in England. Several leagues around the world implemented mandatory neck protection in the aftermath, and a handful of NHLers began to wear neckguards. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, 78% of 181 NHL players polled by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5241461/2024/02/02/nhl-player-poll-neck-guards/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic</a> in January voted against implementing neck protection at the highest level.</p>

LAVAL, QC - OCTOBER 15: A close-up detail of the AHL logo seen on a referee jersey during the third period between the Belleville Senators and the Laval Rocket at Place Bell on October 15, 2021 in Montreal, Canada. The Laval Rocket defeated the Belleville Senators 6-2.

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AHL implementing mandatory neck protection

Hideki Matsuyama withdrew from the BMW Championship on Friday due to a lower-back injury, the TOU...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1977" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1977">Hideki Matsuyama</a> withdrew from the BMW Championship on Friday due to a lower-back injury, the TOUR announced. </p><p>Matsuyama was in contention after firing an opening-round 67 at Castle Pines on Thursday but will be unable to complete the second leg of the FedEx Cup Playoffs.</p><p>If healthy, Matsuyama will still be able to play in next week's season finale at the TOUR Championship as he currently sits third on the season-long points list behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1540" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1540">Scottie Scheffler</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1213" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1213">Xander Schauffele</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Matsuyama has two wins this season, including last week's FedEx St. Jude Championship. He's recorded six top-10 finishes across 17 events and also captured a bronze medal representing Japan at the Olympics in Paris.</p>

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 17: Hideki Matsuyama of Japan plays his shot from the 15th tee during the third round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind on August 17, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee.

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Matsuyama withdraws from BMW Championship due to back injury

The Winnipeg Jets traded 2022 14th overall pick Rutger McGroarty to the Pittsburgh Penguins for f...

<p>The Winnipeg Jets traded 2022 14th overall pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12720" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12720">Rutger McGroarty</a> to the Pittsburgh Penguins for forward prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13824" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13824">Brayden Yager</a>, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>McGroarty was committed to the University of Michigan this coming season but signed his entry-level contract with the Penguins after the trade. His deal is for three years and carries an annual cap hit of $950,000 with performance bonuses available, according to <a href="https://x.com/puckpedia/status/1826669392543015006?s=46">PuckPedia</a>.</p><p>"We had a difficult decision to make with this trade because we hold Brayden Yager in such a high regard as a person and prospect," Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"After much consideration, we decided that the opportunity to add Rutger McGroarty was ultimately in the best interest of the Penguins. He possesses the combination of ability, leadership, and competitiveness that the Penguins need to achieve our goals in the short and long run."</p><p>Reports in June said the Jets wanted to sign McGroarty but couldn't reach an agreement. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said he never got a clear reason why McGroarty didn't want to play for Winnipeg.</p><p>"I met with Rutger face to face several days later and that was the same response as well," Cheveldayoff said, per <a href="https://x.com/WPGMurat/status/1826718222072381812">The Athletic's Murat Ates</a>. "He said that, when he got to development camp here, he put the jersey on, it became real, and it just didn't feel right at that time."</p><p>McGroarty was considered one of the Jets' top prospects. The 20-year-old collected 52 points in 36 collegiate games during his sophomore season in 2023-24. He also captained the United States to a gold medal at the world juniors.</p><p>Yager was the 14th overall pick in 2023. He lit up the Western Hockey League with 95 points in 57 games last season and helped the Moose Jaw Warriors reach the Memorial Cup.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 10: Rutger McGroarty #2 of the Michigan Wolverines plays against the Michigan State Spartans at Little Caesars Arena on February 10, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Jets trade McGroarty to Penguins for Yager in prospect swap

Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone has seen the prognostications that his club will regress ...

<p>Vegas Golden Knights captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> has seen the prognostications that his club will regress this season, but he doesn't buy it.</p><p>The Golden Knights lost several key players in free agency - most notably <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2870" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2870">Jonathan Marchessault</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3080" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3080">Chandler Stephenson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/578" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/578">Alec Martinez</a> - and didn't have adequate cap space to make any significant additions. Despite the roster turnover, Stone is confident as ever that Vegas can compete for another Stanley Cup.</p><p>"As I'm older, I have realized that people are going to put a bull's-eye on our back because they want to see us fail," Stone told <a href="https://www.nhl.com/goldenknights/news/lawless-catching-up-with-the-captain">team reporter Gary Lawless</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We haven't failed too much in our history. People want to see the Golden Knights crash and burn. But ... I think the foundation we built doesn't really allow for that to happen. So, I'm feeling confident. I think the team is excited to get back. We definitely have that chip on our shoulder. A lot of people in our industry don't believe that we can get back to the team that we know we are, but time will tell. We still believe that we're one of the teams that is going to training camp with the chance to win the Stanley Cup."</p><p>Vegas has drawn the ire of many fan bases for its instant success as an expansion franchise as well as its use of long-term injured reserve. Stone's attracted scrutiny in each of the past two years by missing significant time in the regular season before returning in Game 1 of the playoffs - when the salary cap doesn't apply.</p><p>After spending lavishly to acquire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4559" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2991" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2991">Tomas Hertl</a> at last season's trade deadline with Stone on the shelf, Vegas general manager Kelly McCrimmon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2866059" href="https://thescore.com/news/2866059">said</a> it's "ridiculous to suggest" the Golden Knights were faking or exaggerating injuries.</p><p>The Golden Knights have made the postseason in all but one of seven years of their existence. They reached the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural campaign and won their first title in 2023.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 12: Mark Stone #61 of the Vegas Golden Knights celebrates after a goal during the third period against the Minnesota Wild at T-Mobile Arena on February 12, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Stone: 'People want to see the Golden Knights crash and burn'

The Columbus Blue Jackets signed restricted free-agent forward Cole Sillinger to a two-year contr...

<p>The Columbus Blue Jackets signed restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10667" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10667">Cole Sillinger</a> to a two-year contract worth $2.25 million per season.</p><p>"Cole Sillinger is a very smart two-way center who competes extremely hard at both ends of the ice," general manager Don Waddell said. "He played over 200 NHL games before turning 21 and is coming off his best season, so we are looking forward to his continued growth as a player. He is going to be an important part of the present and future of this club."</p><p>Sillinger appeared in 77 games last season and notched a career-high 32 points while averaging over 16 minutes per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Columbus drafted Sillinger 12th overall in 2021. </p><p>Sillinger was the Blue Jackets' last remaining RFA. Columbus has approximately $15.8 million in cap space after the signing, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/columbus-blue-jackets">PuckPedia</a>.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - APRIL 07: Cole Sillinger #4 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates during the second period against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena on April 7, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Blue Jackets sign Sillinger to 2-year, $4.5M deal

The Nashville Predators anticipate Yaroslav Askarov will be at training camp next month despite r...

<p>The Nashville Predators anticipate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9205" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9205">Yaroslav Askarov</a> will be at training camp next month despite rumors circulating Monday that the young netminder wants out of the organization.</p><p>"We are aware of the report today, and our expectation is for the player to report to training camp and compete for a job in September," general manager Barry Trotz said in a statement, per <a href="https://x.com/glennonsports/status/1825554050840203323">NHL.com's John Glennon</a>.</p><p><a href="https://x.com/glennonsports/status/1825554050840203323">ESPN's Kevin Weekes</a> reported Askarov has requested a trade from the Predators and won't report to AHL Milwaukee for training camp.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Askarov, 22, was the 11th overall pick in 2020 and is widely considered one of the league's top goaltending prospects. However, he doesn't appear to have a path to regular playing time in the NHL as the Predators inked starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4571" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4571">Juuse Saros</a> to an eight-year extension over the offseason and also added backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1794">Scott Wedgewood</a> on a two-year agreement.</p><p>After signing Saros in June, <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1806782724524425313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1806782724524425313%7Ctwgr%5Edd624a61b326dfb84685c9152fca3cb220e22c99%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fthehockeynews.com%2Fnhl%2Fnashville-predators%2Flatest-news%2Fpredators-reportedly-getting-major-interest-in-askarov-set-price-high">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a> reported the Predators received numerous calls on Askarov's availability. Nashville was willing to move him at the time but put a big asking price on the young netminder.</p><p>Askarov's entry-level contract expires after the 2024-25 season. He carries a $925,000 cap hit at the NHL level before hitting restricted free agency next summer. </p><p>Askarov made his NHL debut in 2022-23 after an impressive KHL career with SKA St. Petersburg. Aside from three games with the Predators split over the past two seasons, Askarov has primarily been an AHL starter since coming to North America. He's posted a .911 save percentage in each of the past two seasons with the Admirals while winning 56 of 92 appearances.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 30: Yaroslav Askarov #30 of the Nashville Predators tends net against the Washington Capitals during overtime in the game at Capital One Arena on December 30, 2023 in Washington, DC.

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Predators expect Askarov at camp after reported trade request

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