All articles tagged with #defensemen
The article highlights the top rookie defensemen and forwards in the NHL for the 2025-26 season, focusing on their ice time, contributions, and notable performances, with Matthew Schaefer and Beckett Sennecke among the standout rookies.
The article compares NHL defensemen Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes using advanced stats, highlighting their skating speed, distance, shot metrics, and recent trade impact, with both players ranking highly in various categories and set to face off in upcoming games.
The article discusses NHL team moves, including the Colorado Avalanche re-signing Josh Manson despite injury concerns, the Dallas Stars trading Dumba to the Pittsburgh Penguins for cap space and future assets, and other team updates like Montreal's trade for Zach Bolduc and ongoing discussions about Blackhawks' player decisions.
The Buffalo Sabres acquired defensemen Conor Timmins and Isaac Belliveau from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a 2025 second-round draft pick and Connor Clifton, bolstering their defensive roster with experienced and young players.
The 2025 NHL Draft consensus big board highlights a strong class of centers, led by Michael Misa and others, with defensemen like Matthew Schaefer also prominent. The draft features a mix of highly ranked prospects with some variability in their positions, especially among defensemen and goalies, making it an intriguing and unpredictable event. The draft's focus on down-the-middle talent and the nuanced rankings reflect the league's strategic priorities and the draft's inherent surprises.
The Dallas Stars made a significant move ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline by acquiring defenseman Chris Tanev, addressing a need for a right-handed blueliner. Tanev's addition provides depth and competition on the blueline, and his physical style of play and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset. The trade cost, including draft picks and a defensive prospect, was considered manageable, and the Stars were able to take on only 25% of Tanev's remaining cap space. With Tanev's potential to contribute beyond this season, the move positions the Stars as Stanley Cup contenders with 21 games left in the regular season.
The Minnesota Wild fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3, despite rallying from a three-goal deficit. Penguins fans expressed their disappointment that former goalie Marc-Andre Fleury didn't start in his return to Pittsburgh, but coach John Hynes made the decision to start Filip Gustavsson. The Wild's banged-up blue line struggled without defensemen Jared Spurgeon and Jonas Brodin. Kirill Kaprizov has been quiet this season, with only three even-strength goals. Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Valtteri Puustinen were the standout players for the Penguins.
The NHL trade market for defensemen and goalies is heating up earlier than usual, with players like Tony DeAngelo and Tyson Barrie available. DeAngelo's low cap hit makes him an enticing option, while Barrie's higher salary complicates potential trades. The Calgary Flames have received calls regarding both players but are in no rush to make a move. The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively seeking blue-line help, with Chris Tanev, Sean Walker, and Ilya Lyubushkin among their targets. The Detroit Red Wings are content keeping all three of their goalies, while the Montreal Canadiens are open to trading Jake Allen or Cayden Primeau.
The Boston Bruins will face the Toronto Maple Leafs with a significantly changed defensive lineup due to injuries and suspensions. Defensemen Charlie McAvoy, Derek Forbort, and Matt Grzelcyk are all absent, leading to a complete overhaul of the D-corps. Parker Wotherspoon and Ian Mitchell are returning, while Mason Lohrei is set to make his NHL debut. The projected lines and defensive pairings for both teams are provided.
The Carolina Hurricanes' lineup for Opening Night against the Ottawa Senators remains uncertain, with head coach Rod Brind'Amour keeping his cards close to his chest. The team is deciding between a 12-forward, six-defensemen setup or an 11-forward, seven-defensemen setup. Forward Brendan Lemieux and defenseman Jalen Chatfield are potential candidates to sit out. Frederik Andersen is expected to start in goal.
The Detroit Red Wings made a surprising trade, acquiring defenseman Jeff Petry from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Gustav Lindstrom and a conditional draft pick. The trade upgrades the Red Wings' blue line, adding a proven veteran who brings offensive skills. However, it also raises questions about the crowded defensive lineup and the impact on top prospect Simon Edvinsson, who may face challenges in securing a spot on the opening night roster. The trade reflects the Red Wings' focus on improving their defense and finding more offensive production.
The Boston Bruins wrapped up their annual Development Camp, with forward Matthew Poitras standing out as a promising young asset with his craftiness, hockey IQ, and ability to generate scoring opportunities. Defensemen Mason Lohrei and Fabian Lysell also impressed, showcasing their size, playmaking skills, and improved skating. The Bruins focused on adding heft to their defensive units, bringing in several hulking defensemen during the camp. Forward Riley Duran is projected to be a physical presence in a checking-line role. Overall, the camp showcased the potential of Boston's next wave of talent.
Erik Johnson, who spent 13 of his 15 NHL seasons with the Colorado Avalanche, has signed a one-year, $3.25 million contract with the Buffalo Sabres. Johnson's decision to join the Sabres signifies a change in how the team is perceived, as players now view Buffalo as a team on the rise. Johnson was impressed by the Sabres' top line and defense corps, and he believes he can contribute his experience to help the team contend for a playoff spot.
The Buffalo Sabres have addressed their need for defensemen by signing Erik Johnson and Connor Clifton. With a surplus of nine defensemen on the roster, the Sabres will have to make decisions on who to keep. Johnson brings experience and leadership to a young defense corps, while Clifton fits the team's preferred style of play. The signings also improve the Sabres' penalty kill and provide more options for coach Don Granato. However, it remains to be seen if Johnson and Clifton will be the right defensemen for the team in the long run.
The New York Rangers have agreed to one-year contracts with defensemen Connor Mackey and Nikolas Brouillard. Mackey, who has played in 39 career NHL games, recorded seven points in 30 games last season. Brouillard, on the other hand, notched 39 points in 72 games for the San Diego Gulls of the AHL.