ANAHEIM — The Detroit Red Wings sealed a dramatic 3-2 win against the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on Sunday, with Michael Rasmussen scoring the tiebreaking goal in the final minutes. Rasmussen’s goal, which deflected off his skate from Moritz Seider’s shot, secured the Red Wings a sweep of their three-game California road trip.

Dylan Larkin and Joe Veleno contributed to the Red Wings’ victory, each scoring a goal. Goalie Alex Lyon made 29 saves for Detroit (20-16-4), ensuring a successful end to the road trip.

The Ducks’ Trevor Zegras scored both goals for Anaheim, displaying his skill and offensive prowess. Lukas Dostal, in goal for the Ducks (13-25-1), made 25 saves, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the Ducks’ fifth consecutive loss (0-4-1). Anaheim concluded an eight-game homestand with a record of 1-6-1, highlighting their ongoing struggles.

Zegras opened the scoring early in the game, but Detroit responded with goals from Larkin and Veleno, taking a 2-1 lead. Zegras tied the game in the third period, but Rasmussen’s late goal, initially reviewed for a distinct kicking motion, proved decisive.

Special teams played a significant role, with the Red Wings successfully killing all penalties in the game. They have been perfect on the penalty kill in their past eight games and nearly perfect in their past 13 games.

The Ducks faced challenges beyond the game, as goalie John Gibson was sidelined due to illness. Detroit’s Andrew Copp returned to the lineup and contributed an assist after missing the previous game. Anaheim’s offensive struggles continued, as they have consistently failed to score more than two goals in most of their homestand games.

The Red Wings will look to build on this victory and maintain their strong penalty kill, while the Ducks will aim to address their scoring issues and bounce back in upcoming games.

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Winnipeg Jets continued their impressive form with a 6-2 victory against the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena on Sunday, extending their point streak to 12 games and winning their sixth straight. Mark Scheifele led the charge with two goals, contributing to the Jets’ dominant performance.

Nikolaj Ehlers added a goal and an assist, while Vladislav Namestnikov, Cole Perfetti, and Adam Lowry also scored for the Jets (26-9-4). The team’s consistent performance was highlighted by their defense, allowing two goals or fewer in nine straight games and three or fewer in a franchise-record 29 straight games. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck made 15 saves, playing a crucial role in the win.

Dylan Guenther scored in his season debut for the Coyotes (19-17-2), who have struggled during their five-game homestand, losing the first three games and being outscored 15-4. Karel Vejmelka made 31 saves for Arizona.

Namestnikov opened the scoring for Winnipeg in the first period, capitalizing on a turnover. Ehlers doubled the lead in the second period with a slap shot that deflected back to him. Nick Schmaltz reduced the deficit for Arizona, but Perfetti responded quickly for the Jets. Scheifele’s two goals, including an empty-netter, and Lowry’s late goal sealed the victory for Winnipeg.

Despite the loss, Guenther expressed satisfaction with his individual performance and his goal, a result of active skating.

The Jets’ current run of form places them among the top teams in the NHL, with their 29-game streak of allowing three or fewer goals being the sixth-longest in league history. This defensive solidity, combined with effective scoring, has been pivotal to their success.

Winnipeg’s next challenges will be to maintain this high level of play and extend their impressive streak, while the Coyotes will look to regroup and improve their performance in the remaining games of their homestand.

WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals clinched a narrow 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings at the Capital One Arena on Sunday, with John Carlson scoring the decisive goal in the final minute. Carlson’s long shot from the right boards, his first goal and an assist of the game, ended the Capitals’ three-game winless streak and marked their first victory in three games.

Nicolas Aube-Kubel was a standout for the Capitals, achieving his first three-point NHL game with a goal and two assists. Nic Dowd also contributed with a goal and an assist, and Alex Ovechkin extended his point streak to five games with an assist. Goalie Darcy Kuemper made 38 saves, playing a key role in the win.

The Kings, led by Kevin Fiala’s two goals and Adrian Kempe’s power-play goal, suffered their season-high fifth straight loss (0-3-2). Fiala’s third-period goal briefly put the Kings ahead, but Aube-Kubel tied the game for the Capitals. Goalie Cam Talbot made 30 saves for Los Angeles.

The game saw the Capitals initially leading with Dowd’s second-period goal, only for the Kings to respond with goals from Kempe and Fiala. Strome then tied the game for Washington before Carlson’s late heroics sealed the win for the Capitals.

The match also featured notable achievements, with Kempe’s goal marking the 295th time Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty factored into the same goal, a significant milestone in NHL history.

Injuries and debuts also played a part in the game’s dynamics. Capitals forward Tom Wilson briefly left the game due to a bloody nose, and Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke made his season debut.

The Capitals will look to build on this victory, while the Kings aim to break their losing streak in their upcoming games.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks triumphed in a closely contested match against the Calgary Flames, securing a 4-3 win at the United Center on Sunday. This victory marked the team’s first win without forward Connor Bedard, sidelined with a fractured jaw, and Nick Foligno, out with a fractured left finger.

Colin Blackwell emerged as a key player for the Blackhawks, contributing two goals and an assist. Jarred Tinordi added two assists, and goaltender Petr Mrazek made 28 saves, steering the team to victory. The Blackhawks (12-26-2) broke a five-game losing streak (0-4-1), finding much-needed momentum.

Nazem Kadri led the Flames with two goals, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Blackhawks’ resilience. Dan Vladar, in goal for the Flames, made 17 saves. The Flames (17-18-5) were looking to rebound from a 3-2 loss at Philadelphia but fell short despite a strong effort.

The game started aggressively, with Blackwell giving the Blackhawks an early lead with a wrist shot at 4:32 of the first period. An initial goal by the Flames was overturned due to goaltender interference, but Kadri eventually tied the game at 1-1. The Flames took a brief lead in the second period through Andrew Mangiapane’s power-play goal, but the Blackhawks responded with goals from Philipp Kurashev and Nikita Zaitsev.

Blackwell’s power-play goal in the third period extended the Blackhawks’ lead to 4-2, showcasing his significant impact since returning from sports hernia surgery. Kadri brought the Flames within one, but the Blackhawks held firm to secure the win.

Chicago coach Luke Richardson praised Blackwell’s effort and dedication to returning to form, while Flames coach Ryan Huska noted the team’s individualistic play as a factor in their loss.

The Blackhawks adapted to their roster challenges by playing with 11 forwards and seven defensemen. Newly acquired forward Rem Pitlick couldn’t make it for the game due to weather conditions, and Zach Sanford, claimed off waivers, assisted on Blackwell’s second goal.

Looking ahead, the Blackhawks aim to build on this victory, while the Flames will seek to regroup and address their gameplay shortcomings.

Filip Forsberg’s impressive performance, scoring twice in the third period, propelled the Nashville Predators to a 4-3 win against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. Forsberg’s efforts were crucial in helping the Predators (22-17-1) secure their third win in four games.

Gustav Nyquist continued his point streak, now at eight games, with a goal and an assist, while Ryan O’Reilly contributed with two assists. Goalie Kevin Lankinen made 26 saves, playing a key role in Nashville’s victory.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTWgLG9uToU

The Stars (22-11-5), despite goals from Jason Robertson and Jamie Benn, and two assists from Thomas Harley, faced their third consecutive loss. Scott Wedgewood made 18 saves for Dallas. Coach Pete DeBoer acknowledged the limited number of mistakes made but lamented that those errors led to goals.

Forsberg’s first goal gave Nashville a 3-2 lead early in the third period, showcasing his skill with a backhand finish. He then extended the lead with a wraparound goal, displaying his offensive prowess. Nyquist praised Forsberg’s ability to step up when needed, highlighting his two crucial goals.

Robertson managed to reduce the deficit to 4-3 for Dallas, but the Stars couldn’t find the equalizer. Tyler Seguin stressed the importance of defense, stating that the team shouldn’t be conceding four goals and emphasizing the need for collective responsibility.

The Predators established an early lead with Nyquist’s first-period goal, followed by Luke Evangelista extending the lead in the second period. Dallas responded with goals from Seguin and Benn, the latter tying the game on a power play just before the second intermission.

Nashville coach Andrew Brunette saw the win as a positive growth moment for the team, especially after losing momentum in previous games. Dallas’ Robertson noted the team’s improved power-play execution in the second attempt, leading to Benn’s goal.

In milestone achievements, Dallas defenseman Ryan Suter played his 1,400th NHL game, joining a select group of American skaters to reach this mark. Benn’s power-play goal was his 102nd in the NHL, placing him among the top four players in Stars/North Stars history for power-play goals.

Forsberg’s performance was a highlight of the game, marking his eighth 20-goal season in the NHL, a feat achieved by only ten other Swedish-born players. The win for Nashville demonstrates their resilience and ability to close out tight games, while for Dallas, the focus remains on tightening their defensive play and converting opportunities.

In a tightly contested game, the St. Louis Blues managed to edge out the Carolina Hurricanes with a 2-1 victory in a shootout at PNC Arena. The Blues’ success was largely attributed to Jordan Binnington’s stellar performance in goal, making 29 saves throughout the game.

Interim coach Drew Bannister praised Binnington, acknowledging him as a catalyst for the team. The Blues (20-17-1) have now won two consecutive games, with Nathan Walker scoring in regulation and Jake Neighbours and Brayden Schenn securing the win in the shootout.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_F3LVYk1AE

The Hurricanes (22-13-5) extended their point streak to six games despite the loss. Teuvo Teravainen scored Carolina’s only goal, and Antti Raanta made 21 saves. Coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, especially considering it was the second game of a back-to-back.

Walker’s breakaway goal gave the Blues an early lead, but Teravainen’s power-play goal in the first period brought the Hurricanes level. Despite the equalizer, Binnington’s saves, especially in the second period, kept the Blues in the game.

Binnington highlighted the importance of being in a rhythm and credited his team for playing well defensively. Raanta, who recently returned from a stint in the AHL, appreciated the fan support, noting that even routine saves were met with enthusiastic cheers.

Schenn, who scored in the shootout but has been experiencing a goal drought in regular play, took a simple approach, focusing on speed and not overthinking his shot.

The game also saw Colton Parayko surpass Barclay Plager for fourth among Blues defensemen in games played, reaching 615 games. For the Hurricanes, Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov saw their six-game point streaks come to an end.

This victory for the Blues demonstrates their ability to win close games and the pivotal role of their goaltending. For the Hurricanes, the game was another step in maintaining their strong form, as they look forward to a six-game homestand.

The Toronto Maple Leafs continued their impressive form with a 4-1 win over the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center, exacerbating the Sharks’ struggles. William Nylander led the charge with two goals and an assist, contributing significantly to the Maple Leafs’ (20-10-7) success on their California road trip.

Mitchell Marner and Calle Jarnkrok also scored for Toronto, with Martin Jones making 23 saves. Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe praised Jones for his performance, especially considering the road trip’s significance for the goalie.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrWenbUJSc8

The Sharks (9-28-3) faced their 11th consecutive loss, equaling their earlier season streak of 11 straight losses. Mikael Granlund scored their only goal, and Mackenzie Blackwood made 29 saves. Sharks coach David Quinn expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s competitiveness, acknowledging the talent gap between the two teams.

Toronto set the pace early, with Marner scoring in the first period during a power play. The Maple Leafs dominated the first period, outshooting the Sharks 17-3. Jarnkrok’s second-period goal added to Toronto’s lead, with Nylander’s third-period goal further extending it.

Granlund’s goal offered a glimmer of hope for the Sharks, but Nylander’s second goal sealed the victory for Toronto. Nylander reflected on the team’s recent performance, highlighting their defensive efforts and Jones’ contributions.

The game underscored Nylander’s offensive prowess, with six points in his last three games, and Jones’ strong goaltending during the road trip.

For the Sharks, the loss continues a troubling trend, despite Granlund’s belief that the team has shown improvement compared to earlier in the season. The Maple Leafs’ win, meanwhile, demonstrates their ability to capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses and maintain consistency in their play.

In a closely contested NHL game, the Buffalo Sabres emerged victorious with a 3-1 win against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. The standout performance came from Sabres goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who made 40 saves, guiding his team to their second consecutive victory.

Zemgus Girgensons scored a crucial go-ahead goal in the third period, and Alex Tuch and Rasmus Dahlin also found the net for the Sabres (17-19-4). Dahlin’s goal was an empty-netter, sealing the win for Buffalo, which has shown signs of resurgence after a difficult period.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmgJO_wg_SM

The Penguins (19-15-4), despite Tristan Jarry’s 29 saves and Rickard Rakell’s goal, couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities. They have now lost two of their last three games, following a six-game point streak.

Sabres coach Don Granato praised his team’s newfound confidence and fearlessness, which was evident in their performance against the Penguins. Girgensons’ backhand goal, following a shot from Eric Robinson, was a key moment in the third period.

Pittsburgh experienced some frustration as they had two goals overturned after coach’s challenges by Buffalo. Both Drew O’Connor’s and Jake Guentzel’s goals were disallowed, one due to offside and the other for goalie interference.

Tuch’s early goal in the first period set the tone for the Sabres, while Luukkonen’s impressive goaltending, especially during Pittsburgh’s three breakaways, was crucial in keeping the Penguins at bay.

Rakell’s power-play goal in the third period was his fourth in seven games, showing signs of a return to form after a slow start to the season. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Sabres, who demonstrated a solid team effort.

The Sabres’ win highlights their potential to bounce back and compete, especially with strong performances from players like Luukkonen and Girgensons. For the Penguins, the game serves as a reminder of the need to capitalize on scoring opportunities and the impact of crucial moments like overturned goals.

The Vancouver Canucks secured a thrilling 6-4 win over the New Jersey Devils, with standout performances from J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. Each player notched two goals and an assist, contributing significantly to the Canucks’ victory at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Miller and Pettersson, reunited on the first line with Brock Boeser, displayed excellent chemistry reminiscent of their previous season’s collaboration. Miller praised the line’s synergy, noting their effective play around the net. Pettersson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their hard work and mutual reliability.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itpBG_ffQMU

The win marked goaltender Thatcher Demko’s 100th NHL victory as he made 21 saves. The Canucks (25-11-3), now on a 9-2-2 run in their past 13 games, exhibited a solid performance, leading 5-2 early in the third period before the Devils closed the gap.

New Jersey (21-15-2), despite the loss, saw strong efforts from Colin Miller with two goals and Erik Haula with a goal and an assist. Goalie Nico Daws faced 36 shots from the Canucks. The Devils played without top-line center Jack Hughes due to an upper-body injury, which coach Lindy Ruff acknowledged as a challenge.

Vancouver dominated the first period with a 17-5 shot advantage, with Pettersson scoring just 41 seconds into the second period. Miller’s two consecutive goals further extended Vancouver’s lead. However, New Jersey fought back, with Colin Miller and Haula reducing the deficit.

The game saw both teams trade goals, with Conor Garland and Pettersson scoring for Vancouver and Colin Miller and Nico Hischier responding for New Jersey. Joshua’s empty-net goal sealed the win for the Canucks.

Coach Rick Tocchet praised the Canucks’ resilience, especially in withstanding the Devils’ late surge and successfully killing a crucial penalty.

In addition to the on-ice action, the game featured milestones and returns. Quinn Hughes’ multipoint game set a new record for a Canucks defenseman, and Carson Soucy returned after missing 23 games due to injury. Graeme Clarke made his NHL debut for the Devils.

This victory for the Canucks not only showcases their offensive prowess but also their ability to hold off a comeback from a competitive Devils team. The performance of Miller and Pettersson, in particular, highlights their importance to Vancouver’s success.

In an exhilarating matchup, the Montreal Canadiens emerged victorious in a 4-3 shootout win against the New York Rangers at the Bell Centre. The win was particularly significant for the Canadiens, as they rebounded from a recent 6-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres.

Sam Montembeault was the standout performer for Montreal (17-17-5), making 45 saves, including a critical stop during the shootout. Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher praised the game’s atmosphere and Montembeault’s key contributions. Montembeault himself expressed satisfaction with his performance, especially in thwarting Mika Zibanejad’s shootout attempt.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZcJ05-oTXk

The Rangers (26-10-2), led by Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck, each with a goal and an assist, displayed resilience by erasing a three-goal deficit. Jonathan Quick made 27 saves for New York, which has experienced a slight dip in form with three losses in their last five games.

Montreal opened the scoring with Gallagher’s goal in the first period, followed by Sean Monahan and Joel Armia extending the lead to 3-0 in the second period. The Rangers then mounted a comeback, with Trocheck and Panarin narrowing the gap in the second period, and Adam Fox tying the game in the third.

New York coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged the team’s character in fighting back into the game, while Fox expressed a mix of disappointment and pride in the team’s effort to secure a point.

Notable performances included Gallagher’s first goal since November 11 and Panarin’s ongoing seven-game point streak, with 12 points in total. Trocheck also continued his strong form with nine points in his past four games.

This win for the Canadiens not only showcased their resilience and ability to bounce back but also highlighted Montembeault’s impressive goaltending. The Rangers, despite the loss, demonstrated their fighting spirit, making for an exciting and closely contested game.

Marc-Andre Fleury achieved a significant milestone, tying Patrick Roy for the second-most wins in NHL history, as he led the Minnesota Wild to a 4-3 overtime victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Fleury, now with 551 wins, played a crucial role in the win, making 25 saves. Martin Brodeur holds the record with 691 wins.

The game was intense and closely contested, with Fleury making a remarkable full-extension glove save in overtime. Marco Rossi then scored the winning goal for Minnesota (17-17-4), ending the team’s four-game losing streak with a one-timer in overtime.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2LB4MPKolo

Fleury expressed his happiness about the win and the honor of catching up with Patrick Roy. Marcus Johansson tied the game for the Wild late in the third period, leading to Fleury’s heroic save and Rossi’s winning goal.

Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point led the Tampa Bay Lightning, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent the loss to the Boston Bruins.

Cole Sillinger was a standout for the Blue Jackets, scoring a hat trick, including the go-ahead goal in the third period. Adam Boqvist, returning from a 13-game absence due to a shoulder strain, had two assists, and Daniil Tarasov made 33 saves for Columbus (13-19-9).

The game saw multiple lead changes, with the Blue Jackets initially taking the lead in the first period and then regaining it in the second. However, the Wild fought back each time, with Matt Boldy scoring two power-play goals and Brock Faber recording three assists.

Despite the loss, Blue Jackets’ Adam Boqvist and Cole Sillinger remained optimistic about the team’s potential. Wild coach John Hynes praised the impact of rookies Faber and Rossi in the game.

With this win, Fleury continues to solidify his legacy as one of the NHL’s all-time great goaltenders. The Wild’s ability to bounce back and secure the win reflects their resilience and determination.

The Boston Bruins dominated the Tampa Bay Lightning with a convincing 7-3 win at TD Garden. Key performances from David Pastrnak and Trent Frederic propelled the Bruins to victory, extending their strong run of form with five wins in their last six games.

Pastrnak contributed a goal and an assist, while Frederic scored twice. Linus Ullmark’s 23 saves also played a crucial role in the Bruins’ win, moving their record to 24-8-6. Bruins coach Jim Montgomery praised the team’s smart and solid play, particularly in the third period.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PG1Hz8l6zg

The Lightning (19-17-5), led by Nikita Kucherov with a goal and two assists and Brayden Point with two goals, showed moments of brilliance but couldn’t match the Bruins’ intensity. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 20 saves for Tampa Bay, which has lost four of its past six games.

The game started fast with Point scoring in the first 21 seconds, but Frederic’s two goals, including a power-play goal, shifted the momentum in Boston’s favor. Charlie McAvoy and Morgan Geekie added to the Bruins’ tally, with McAvoy’s goal coming from a shot through traffic.

Both teams traded goals in a fast-paced second period, but the Bruins maintained control, with Pastrnak’s goal being a highlight. Geekie’s wrist shot in the third period further extended Boston’s lead, and Jake DeBrusk and Charlie Coyle added late goals to seal the win.

Tampa Bay’s Calvin de Haan acknowledged that despite letting in seven goals, the team didn’t play as poorly as the score suggested. However, the Lightning’s inability to sustain momentum and respond effectively to Boston’s scoring was a key factor in their loss.

The Bruins’ Matthew Poitras, who had two assists, highlighted the team’s effective containment of the Lightning’s skilled players. Unfortunately, the Lightning’s Tanner Jeannot left the game in the second period due to an injury, and there was no update on his condition after the game.

The Bruins’ win not only demonstrates their offensive firepower but also their ability to contain and respond to a team like the Lightning, known for its skilled roster. The victory positions Boston as a formidable team in the league, showcasing depth and versatility in their lineup.

The Florida Panthers continued their impressive form with an 8-4 win over the Colorado Avalanche, marking their seventh consecutive victory. Sam Reinhart led the charge with a hat trick, scoring three goals, including a crucial power-play goal in the third period to give the Panthers a 5-4 lead.

Reinhart’s performance, with 11 points in the last seven games, was pivotal for the Panthers (25-12-2), who have outscored opponents 31-14 during their winning streak. Matthew Tkachuk contributed with a goal and three assists, and Aleksander Barkov had four assists. Carter Verhaeghe also scored twice and provided an assist, while Sergei Bobrovsky made 23 saves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cUk0blS27o

Despite a strong start from Florida, taking a 3-0 lead midway through the first period, the Avalanche managed to tie the game early in the second. Cale Makar and Valeri Nichushkin were among the key contributors for Colorado (25-12-3), with Makar scoring a goal and an assist and Nichushkin adding a goal and an assist.

Florida coach Paul Maurice praised his team’s ability to maintain composure, even as the Avalanche fought back. Colorado, however, couldn’t sustain their momentum, and the Panthers regained control in the third period.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 48 points weren’t enough for the Bucks, who lost to the Houston Rockets, and the Panthers took advantage of the Avalanche’s goalie switch. Ivan Prosvetov allowed four goals on 13 shots before being replaced by Alexandar Georgiev, who made 12 saves.

Jonathan Drouin tied the game for Colorado in the third period, but Reinhart’s go-ahead goal, followed by further scores from Kevin Stenlund, Tkachuk, and Verhaeghe, sealed the win for Florida.

Panthers forward Sam Bennett did not play after the second period due to an upper-body injury, but coach Maurice did not express major concern.

This win for the Panthers not only extends their winning streak but also showcases their offensive firepower and resilience in high-scoring games. The Avalanche, meanwhile, will look to bounce back from this setback as they continue their season.

In a closely contested match, the Philadelphia Flyers secured a 3-2 win over the Calgary Flames at the Wells Fargo Center. Morgan Frost, returning to the lineup after being scratched, made a significant impact with a goal and an assist.

Frost’s contribution was a key talking point, especially after he had a productive meeting with coach John Tortorella. The forward expressed the importance of the discussion in helping him play with more energy. Tortorella praised Frost for taking the initiative for the meeting, seeing it as a positive step in the right direction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DvKfQ6r5lE

Travis Konecny scored the tiebreaking goal in the third period, while Sean Couturier also found the net for Philadelphia (20-13-6), which had been on a four-game losing streak. Goalkeeper Carter Hart made 22 saves to help secure the win.

For the Flames (17-17-5), Jonathan Huberdeau and MacKenzie Weegar scored, with Jacob Markstrom making 39 saves. Despite the loss, Markstrom’s performance since returning from injury has been a highlight for Calgary, with a 2.03 goals-against average and .935 save percentage in his last seven games.

The Flames’ coach Ryan Huska noted the team’s need to work harder, acknowledging that the Flyers were the better team in the second and third periods.

Frost’s equalizer in the second period was crucial, and Weegar’s goal for Calgary marked his ninth of the season, a career high. Couturier’s power-play goal tied the game, with Frost playing a part in the setup.

Konecny’s short-handed goal in the third period was pivotal, marking his fifth of the season and tying him for the NHL lead. It was also the Flyers’ 10th short-handed goal of the season, the most in the NHL.

The Flyers also saw Cam Atkinson return to the lineup, while forwards Nicolas Deslauriers and Bobby Brink were benched in the third period as Tortorella opted for three lines.

This win for the Flyers not only ends their losing streak but also demonstrates their resilience and ability to bounce back. Frost and Konecny’s performances were particularly noteworthy, contributing significantly to the team’s success.

SAN JOSE — The Winnipeg Jets secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center on Thursday, extending the Sharks’ losing streak to a disheartening 10 games. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck’s 27-save performance was crucial for the Jets (24-9-4), who have now won four straight and extended their point streak to five games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8QjRYDIUjk

Morgan Barron and Gabriel Vilardi scored for Winnipeg, with Vilardi’s third-period goal proving decisive. Winnipeg’s Brenden Dillon acknowledged the challenge posed by the Sharks, saying, “We knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game. Obviously, they’re desperate with the way the last nine games had gone for them.”

Alexander Barabanov was the lone scorer for the Sharks (9-27-3), and goalie Mackenzie Blackwood made 28 saves. Despite a strong effort, the Sharks haven’t managed a win since defeating the Jets 2-1 on Dec. 12. This marks their second losing streak of at least 10 games this season, highlighting the team’s ongoing struggles.

San Jose coach David Quinn expressed his belief in the team’s resilience: “Our guys are competing their [butts] off and they keep plugging away, and they’re going to show up again tomorrow and we’re going to get out of this.”

Barabanov’s second-period goal initially gave the Sharks a lead, but Barron quickly responded for Winnipeg, tying the game with a deflected shot. Vilardi’s third-period power-play goal then put the Jets ahead, a lead they maintained until the final whistle.

Luke Kunin of the Sharks voiced his frustration, emphasizing the need to persevere: “At the end of the day, you’ve got to find ways to win. It’s frustrating right now.”

Jets coach Rick Bowness praised the Sharks’ performance, acknowledging their speed and competitiveness: “They played hard. They didn’t give us much. They’re fast. They were hard to play against tonight.”

In additional notes, both Hellebuyck and Sharks forward Tomas Hertl were selected to represent their teams at the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in Toronto. Hellebuyck’s personal point streak now stands at 11 games, the longest run by a goaltender in Jets/Thrashers history. Hertl also had an impressive night in face-offs, winning 17 of 19 attempts.

The Jets’ victory underscores their solid form and resilience, while the Sharks continue to search for ways to snap their prolonged losing streak.

UP NEXT

The Jets look to extend their winning streak, building on their recent successes. The Sharks, facing a challenging period, will aim to regroup and find a winning formula in their upcoming games.

LAS VEGAS — Sam Reinhart celebrated his first career selection to the NHL All-Star Game with a standout performance, contributing a goal and an assist in the Florida Panthers’ 4-1 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena on Thursday. The Panthers extended their winning streak to six games, showcasing their strength and depth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D267vf89e50

Matthew Tkachuk and Carter Verhaeghe each added a goal and an assist, while Brandon Montour provided two assists for Florida (24-12-2). Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky supported the effort with 26 saves, ensuring the Panthers maintained their lead throughout the game.

Florida’s win was even more impressive considering they played most of the game with only 10 forwards. Captain Aleksander Barkov and Evan Rodrigues both exited the game in the first period due to injuries. Coach Paul Maurice praised the team’s resilience: “One of my favorite games of the year. … The best part of the game was the bench, because they were up against it. They were cheering for each other. They’re pulling for each other. Just fun to be behind the bench.”

Pavel Dorofeyev scored the lone goal for Vegas (22-12-5), and goalie Logan Thompson made 32 saves. The Golden Knights have now lost six of their last seven games, leading captain Mark Stone to call for a harder, more simplified approach from the team.

Vegas initially took the lead with Dorofeyev’s goal early in the first period, but Florida responded with Sam Bennett’s power-play goal to tie the game. Tkachuk’s and Verhaeghe’s goals in the second period gave the Panthers a comfortable lead, and Reinhart’s third-period power-play goal sealed the victory.

Tkachuk spoke highly of Verhaeghe, noting his scoring instinct and passing ability, and emphasized the team’s motivation, particularly given their history with the Golden Knights in last year’s Stanley Cup Final.

The Panthers’ performance demonstrates their capability to overcome adversity and pull together as a team, while the Golden Knights will be looking to address their recent form and bounce back in upcoming games.

UP NEXT

The Panthers aim to extend their winning streak, drawing confidence from their cohesive team play and effective strategies. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights will seek to reverse their recent slide and recapture their earlier season form in their next matchups.

SEATTLE – Goalie Joey Daccord’s stellar performance with 32 saves led the Seattle Kraken to their sixth consecutive victory, defeating the Ottawa Senators 4-1 at Climate Pledge Arena on Thursday. The Kraken (16-14-9) extended their team-record point streak to 10 games (8-0-2), showcasing their rising form in the league.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_0iBWW68XQ

Vince Dunn contributed a goal and an assist, and Jordan Eberle assisted on two goals, playing a key role in the Kraken’s offensive success. Daccord, who recently achieved the first shutout in Winter Classic history, continued his impressive form. His shutout streak ended at 158:34 in the third period, marking the longest in Seattle’s three NHL seasons.

Reflecting on his performance, Daccord said, “It would have been nicer if I got another shutout. No, the win’s great, and I’m happy to just keep this train rolling. We’re playing great. We’re sticking to our game plan, we’re executing it well, and it’s nice to see the results go our way.”

The Senators (14-20-0), who have now lost two straight and three of their last four games, struggled to match the Kraken’s intensity. Parker Kelly scored their lone goal, and Joonas Korpisalo made 24 saves.

Ottawa’s defense faltered in the last five minutes of the second period, conceding two goals and falling behind 3-0. “I thought our minds slipped a little bit,” said Ottawa defenseman Jake Sanderson. “And it’s a long game, but you’ve got to stay sharp the whole time, and we paid for it.”

Yanni Gourde and Tomas Tatar also scored for the Kraken, with Tatar’s goal coming from a partial breakaway pass by Eberle. Andre Burakovsky, returning from injury, scored his first goal of the season, highlighting his significant return to the lineup.

Senators coach Jacques Martin expressed disappointment, particularly with the five minutes that cost his team the game. “We just lost our composure. We had a couple of good chances to score, their goalie makes some saves, and then we don’t stay with the course,” Martin said.

Daccord’s recent form has been outstanding, leading all NHL goalies with a .958 save percentage and 1.31 goals-against average in his last nine games. His performance has been a cornerstone of the Kraken’s success.

Both Senators captain Brady Tkachuk and Kraken forward Oliver Bjorkstrand were named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game, with Tkachuk becoming the first Senators player to be named to four consecutive All-Star Games.

The Kraken’s win is a testament to their strong team play and Daccord’s exceptional goaltending, while the Senators will look to regroup and address their recent shortcomings.

UP NEXT

The Kraken aim to maintain their winning streak and impressive form, while the Senators will seek to bounce back and return to their earlier winning ways in their upcoming games.

New York, January 4, 2024 – The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced the initial roster of 32 players for the 2024 NHL All-Star Weekend, set to take place in Toronto from February 1-3. This prestigious event will also involve fans in completing the roster through the 2024 NHL All-Star Fan Vote, sponsored by MassMutual.

The 32 players, comprising 28 skaters and four goaltenders, were selected by the NHL’s Hockey Operations Department. Each NHL team is represented by one player, ensuring a diverse and talented line-up. The list includes notable first-time All-Stars like Frank Vatrano (ANA) and seasoned players such as Connor McDavid (EDM), marking his seventh appearance.

Fans now have the unique opportunity to influence the final roster by voting for 12 additional players – eight skaters and four goaltenders. Voting is accessible at NHL.com/vote and via the X platform (formerly Twitter), until January 11th. The voting system allows fans to cast up to 10 ballots per day, engaging a global audience with interactive ballots available in eight languages.

The All-Star Weekend, hosted by the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena, promises an array of events, including the NHL All-Star Skills™ presented by DraftKings Sportsbook, and the Honda (U.S.) / Rogers (Canada) NHL® All-Star Game. The weekend will kick off with the NHL All-Star Thursday™, featuring the Tim Hortons NHL All-Star Player Draft, a tribute to the 1967 Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Canadian Tire PWHL 3-on-3 Showcase.

Tickets for these events, including the NHL Fan Fair™, the official fan festival, are available for purchase, offering fans a chance to be part of the excitement.

This year’s All-Star Weekend not only showcases the league’s top talent but also celebrates fan engagement and hockey heritage, making it a must-watch event for hockey enthusiasts worldwide.

Below are the first 32 All-Star Players:

Player (All-Star Appearance) F Frank Vatrano, ANA (1st) F Clayton Keller, ARI (4th) F David Pastrnak, BOS (4th) D Rasmus Dahlin, BUF (3rd) F Elias Lindholm, CGY (1st) F Sebastian Aho, CAR (3rd) F Connor Bedard, CHI (1st) F Nathan MacKinnon, COL (5th) F Boone Jenner, CBJ (1st) G Jake Oettinger, DAL (1st) F Alex DeBrincat, DET (2nd) F Connor McDavid, EDM (7th) F Sam Reinhart, FLA (1st) G Cam Talbot, LAK (2nd) F Kirill Kaprizov, MIN (3rd) F Nick Suzuki, MTL (3rd)

Player (All-Star Appearance) F Filip Forsberg, NSH (2nd) F Jack Hughes, NJD (3rd) F Mathew Barzal, NYI (3rd) G Igor Shesterkin, NYR (2nd) F Brady Tkachuk, OTT (4th) F Travis Konecny, PHI (2nd) F Sidney Crosby, PIT (6th) F Tomas Hertl, SJS (2nd) F Oliver Bjorkstrand, SEA (1st) F Robert Thomas, STL (1st) F Nikita Kucherov, TBL (5th) F Auston Matthews, TOR (5th) D Quinn Hughes, VAN (2nd) F Jack Eichel, VGK (4th) F Tom Wilson, WSH (2nd) G Connor Hellebuyck, WPG (4th)

TEMPE, Ariz. — Bo Horvat’s outstanding performance, featuring two goals and an assist, propelled the New York Islanders to a decisive 5-1 win against the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena on Thursday. The Islanders (18-10-10) responded strongly after losing two straight games, displaying a cohesive team effort in this victory.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STzYstkUnwg

Anders Lee and Julien Gauthier added to the scoreline with goals 53 seconds apart in the third period, contributing to a three-goal burst that solidified the Islanders’ dominance. Ilya Sorokin was formidable in goal, making 25 saves and playing a key role in New York’s win.

Islanders coach Lane Lambert praised Horvat and Mathew Barzal for their “determined” and “solid” play, which helped create numerous scoring opportunities. “As a result, they had some opportunities and created some chances and got some numbers,” Lambert said.

The Coyotes (19-16-2), who had been enjoying a successful run with six wins out of seven games, couldn’t match the Islanders’ intensity. Nick Schmaltz scored their only goal, while Connor Ingram made 26 saves.

Arizona coach Andre Tourigny pointed out the team’s struggles with puck play and execution, noting that many of the issues were self-inflicted. “Our puck play was difficult, even the simple play was difficult. Our execution hurt us a lot,” he said.

The Islanders’ ability to maintain their lead in the third period was a crucial improvement from their previous game, a 5-4 overtime loss to the Colorado Avalanche. “I think we kind of learned from our mistakes and played really well in the third period, something that we haven’t done in the past,” Horvat noted.

Lee’s and Gauthier’s goals early in the third period were pivotal moments, with Gauthier’s end-to-end rush highlighting the Islanders’ aggressive play. New York outshot Arizona 14-4 in the final period, emphasizing their control over the game.

Sorokin’s performance was also noteworthy, as he has consistently performed well against the Coyotes throughout his career. “He really made some key saves tonight at the right times,” Lambert said.

Horvat’s first-period goal, 11 seconds into a power play, set the tone for the Islanders. Mike Reilly’s goal, assisted by Barzal, further extended their lead.

Barzal and Coyotes forward Clayton Keller were named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game prior to the game, with Barzal reaching a personal milestone of 400 career points.

The Islanders’ win, marked by efficient scoring and solid defense, demonstrates their ability to rebound from setbacks, while the Coyotes will look to address their execution issues in upcoming games.

UP NEXT

The Islanders aim to build on this win and continue their positive momentum, while the Coyotes seek to regroup and return to their winning ways in their upcoming fixtures.

ST. LOUIS — Robert Thomas continued his hot streak, scoring a goal and providing an assist to lead the St. Louis Blues to a narrow 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks at the Enterprise Center on Thursday. This marked Thomas’s third consecutive game with a goal, a performance that came just after he was named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euKJqDkczMM

Thomas’s critical goal at 8:03 in the third period broke the tie, giving the Blues (19-17-1) a much-needed lead. His strike from the right circle was the result of a well-orchestrated play involving multiple teammates, including a cross-ice pass from Scott Perunovich. “A lot of guys did a lot of good things for that goal,” Thomas acknowledged.

Colton Parayko also scored for St. Louis, and goalie Jordan Binnington made 25 saves, helping the team snap a two-game losing streak. “I think we played really solid game defensively,” said Pavel Buchnevich, emphasizing the team’s collective effort.

The Canucks (24-11-3), who entered the game with an impressive 8-1-2 record in their last 11 games, fell short despite a strong performance. Conor Garland provided their only goal, and Thatcher Demko was solid in net with 30 saves.

Vancouver coach Rick Tocchet expressed frustration with missed opportunities, especially in the third period. “We have four or five missed nets. We’ve got to hit the net on those shots,” he said, highlighting the need for improved execution.

Garland’s goal early in the first period initially gave the Canucks the lead, but Parayko’s equalizer in the second period set the stage for Thomas’s eventual game-winner.

The game also had several high-danger chances from Canucks players like Brock Boeser, Nils Hoglander, and Elias Pettersson, but they couldn’t capitalize on these opportunities. “Obviously disappointed,” said Canucks captain Quinn Hughes, reflecting on the close nature of the contest.

Thomas’s performance, earning his first NHL All-Star selection, was a standout aspect of the game. He has accumulated nine points over his past six games, showcasing his rising form. Hughes, despite earning his second All-Star selection, saw his five-game point streak come to an end.

Parayko’s goal was not only significant for the game but also marked a personal milestone, tying him with Barclay Plager for fourth place among Blues defensemen for games played in their history.

The win for the Blues demonstrates their ability to compete against in-form teams, while the Canucks will look to refine their finishing skills to convert chances into wins in future games.

UP NEXT

Both teams move forward with their respective campaigns, with the Blues looking to build on their win and the Canucks aiming to bounce back from this narrow defeat.

NASHVILLE — The Calgary Flames displayed an explosive first period, netting four goals on their way to a commanding 6-3 victory over the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday. The win marks Calgary’s third consecutive victory and signifies their strong form, having won six of their last nine games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzTyMqatFAU

Connor Zary and Blake Coleman each had a goal and an assist, setting a rapid pace for the Flames (17-16-5). Rasmus Andersson and Yegor Sharangovich mirrored their teammates’ performance with a goal and an assist each. Goalkeeper Dan Vladar played a crucial role, making 29 saves.

“We came out pretty hard and took control of the game,” Zary said, emphasizing the team’s solid start and the advantage of playing with an early lead.

The Predators (21-17-1), despite coming off two straight wins, struggled to match the Flames’ intensity. Juuse Saros, who had recently shut out the Chicago Blackhawks, conceded four goals in the first period and was replaced by Kevin Lankinen in the third, after making 20 saves on 25 shots. Lankinen made 13 saves in relief.

Nashville coach Andrew Brunette expressed disappointment with the team’s performance, stressing the missed opportunity to capitalize on home ice and establish their game.

The Flames’ early dominance began with Zary’s power-play goal, followed quickly by Coleman’s goal just 27 seconds later. Filip Forsberg briefly reduced the deficit for Nashville, but Nazem Kadri restored the two-goal lead for Calgary. The Flames’ first-period barrage was capped off by Andersson’s goal, showcasing their offensive prowess.

In the second period, Noah Hanifin extended Calgary’s lead, while Michael McCarron’s goal for the Predators early in the third offered a glimmer of hope. However, Sharangovich’s goal for the Flames sealed the 6-3 final score.

Flames coach Ryan Huska acknowledged the team’s struggle in the third period but was pleased with how they weathered the storm.

A concerning moment came late in the game when Flames defenseman Dennis Gilbert was injured following a hit by Predators forward Philip Tomasino. Tomasino was penalized for slew-footing, and Gilbert’s status remains to be assessed.

Among the notable performances, Predators forward Gustav Nyquist extended his point streak to seven games, and Flames forward Elias Lindholm excelled in face-offs.

Both Lindholm and Forsberg were selected to play in the upcoming 2024 NHL All-Star Game.

The Flames’ convincing win demonstrates their ability to take early control of games and maintain pressure, while the Predators will look to regroup after this setback.

UP NEXT

The Flames aim to continue their winning streak, while the Predators seek to bounce back in their upcoming games, hoping to recapture their form and climb higher in the standings.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Darren Raddysh emerged as an unexpected hero for the Tampa Bay Lightning, scoring twice in their convincing 4-1 win over the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center on Thursday. The 27-year-old defenseman, who had scored just once in his previous 60 career games, played a crucial role in Tampa Bay’s triumph.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5TABii3Ero

Raddysh’s performance was a welcome boost for the Lightning (19-16-5), who have been seeking more offensive contributions from their defensemen. “We’ve been kind of struggling to get goals on the back end, and to get two tonight, that was awesome,” Raddysh said. Tampa Bay’s coach Jon Cooper echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s need to generate more offense from the defense.

Victor Hedman and Brandon Hagel also found the net for the Lightning, and goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy made 22 saves, securing the team’s second win in three games.

For the Wild (16-17-4), Zach Bogosian scored their lone goal. Goalkeeper Marc-Andre Fleury, one win away from tying Patrick Roy for second in NHL history, made 26 saves. The loss extends Minnesota’s losing streak to four games.

Wild coach John Hynes pinpointed the team’s execution, particularly in transitioning from defense to offense, as a key area of concern. “That’s really when you can beat that initial part of the forecheck,” Hynes said, stressing the need for improved execution to facilitate a faster and more attacking style of play.

Raddysh’s goals, including a wraparound, set the tone for the Lightning. Hedman then added a power-play goal early in the third period, extending the lead to 3-0. Despite Bogosian’s effort to spark a comeback for the Wild, Hagel’s empty-netter sealed the 4-1 final score for Tampa Bay.

Reflecting on the game, Bogosian acknowledged the challenge of facing a seasoned team like the Lightning, “They’re obviously a good veteran team that is good at controlling leads.”

In other notes, Lightning defenseman Declan Carlile made his NHL debut, and forward Nikita Kucherov, recently named to the All-Star Game, added an assist to his impressive season tally. Injured Wild forward Kirill Kaprizov was also named to the All-Star Game.

The win for Tampa Bay underscores their depth and resilience, while Minnesota will look to regroup and snap their losing streak in upcoming games.

UP NEXT

The Lightning look to build on this victory, while the Wild aim to address their issues and return to winning ways. The Wild’s next challenge comes against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday.

DALLAS — Nathan MacKinnon delivered in a clutch moment, scoring his second goal of the game in overtime to lift the Colorado Avalanche to a thrilling 5-4 victory against the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center on Thursday. MacKinnon, who was earlier named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game, sealed the win on a 2-on-0 rush, capping off a spirited comeback by the Avalanche.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdAe_pLJQ7E

Mikko Rantanen’s crucial equalizer with 1:09 left in the third period set the stage for MacKinnon’s dramatic overtime winner. “I thought we played a really solid game, a couple of breakdowns. But overall, I thought, we’re going toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in the league,” MacKinnon reflected on the team’s performance.

The Avalanche (25-11-3), now on a seven-game point streak, also benefited from Jonathan Drouin’s two goals and Jack Johnson’s two assists. Goalie Alexandar Georgiev contributed with 28 saves, helping Colorado extend their winning momentum.

For the Stars (22-10-5), Tyler Seguin scored twice, and Matt Duchene and Mason Marchment each tallied two assists. Goaltender Scott Wedgewood made 29 saves, but it wasn’t enough to stave off the Avalanche’s late surge. The Stars faced a significant blow when defenseman Miro Heiskanen left the game with a lower-body injury, adding to the team’s challenges.

Colorado’s comeback began in earnest with Drouin’s two goals, including a power-play goal in the final seconds of the second period and a deflection off Johnson’s point shot. Seguin’s efforts had initially given Dallas a two-goal lead, but the Avalanche’s resilience shone through.

MacKinnon’s performance was historically significant as he became the second player in franchise history to score overtime goals in consecutive regular-season games, a feat last achieved by Greg De Vries in 2003. Additionally, MacKinnon’s 64th point surpassed Rantanen’s previous record for the most points by an Avalanche player before the 40-game mark since the team’s move to Colorado in 1995-96.

Despite the win, the Avalanche faced their own injury concerns, with defenseman Bowen Byram sustaining a lower-body injury during the game.

Colorado coach Jared Bednar praised his team’s response, saying, “I liked the way our guys responded. They just kept playing their game. Little bit more intensity as the game went on for our team, which led to some scoring chances.”

The Stars, despite a strong showing, will look to regroup and address the defensive lapses that allowed Colorado’s comeback. Dallas coach Peter DeBoer acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “Their best players and their best line had all five goals.”

This victory underlines the Avalanche’s tenacity and ability to fight back in challenging situations, cementing their status as one of the league’s top teams.

UP NEXT

Both teams will aim to build on their experiences from this intense matchup in their upcoming games, with the Avalanche looking to maintain their winning form and the Stars seeking to bounce back.