NHL and NHLPA’s Milan stop launches a first-of-its-kind cross-sport activation with Serie A clubs Inter and Milan, spotlighting a shared global fan pulse for hockey and soccer. In a week of events in Milan, 26 NHL stars will mingle with European soccer icons, with a focus on Olympic visibility ahead of Milano Cortina 2026. Seven players named to preliminary Olympic rosters—Aho, Heiskanen, Seider, Raymond, Hischier, Nylander, and Zibanejad—anchor the roster as Inter hosts a training session and Milan’s opener vs Cremonese. The journey includes jersey exchanges with Serie A legends and a broadcaster summit to amplify cross-border storytelling.

The alliance aims to translate on-field star power into digital and live experiences for fantasy audiences and global fans, leveraging both leagues’ brands and broadcast ecosystems. A historic jersey swap at MSG from a March 2025 moment between Mika Zibanejad and Pirlo/Materazzi underscored the ambition to fuse hockey and soccer narratives. As Milan pivots toward 2025–26, the collaboration is framed as a blueprint for cross-sport engagement, talent mobility, and a broader, more immersive fan experience that transcends traditional league boundaries.

The NHL season is in full swing, and several players are making standout contributions for their teams. Connor McDavid continues to lead the league in points, showcasing his elite scoring ability and playmaking skills. The Edmonton Oilers are relying heavily on him for offensive output as they aim to solidify a playoff position.

Meanwhile, the New York Rangers are benefiting from the resurgence of Igor Shesterkin, who has returned to form after a shaky start. His performance in net has been pivotal for the Rangers’ defensive stability. On the other hand, teams like the Chicago Blackhawks are struggling, with a lack of consistent scoring affecting their standings. The Blackhawks will need more from their young stars like Lukas Reichel to turn their fortunes around.

As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Blackhawks are positioned to make significant moves. While Ryan Donato, Petr Mrazek, and Pat Maroon are expected trade candidates, three underrated players are generating buzz: Connor Murphy, Lukas Reichel, and Philipp Kurashev. Murphy, a solid second-pairing defenseman, has proven his worth with 121 blocked shots this season and could be attractive to playoff contenders. Reichel, a young forward, hasn't received proper utilization and could thrive elsewhere. Kurashev, struggling as a healthy scratch, may be ready for a fresh start.

Recent discussions around NHL trade targets have highlighted three promising players: JJ Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres, Lukas Reichel from the Chicago Blackhawks, and Mario Ferraro from the San Jose Sharks. Peterka, who has netted 17 goals in 55 games this season, is highly regarded but faces uncertainty due to Buffalo's struggles and his impending contract negotiations. Meanwhile, Reichel's status as a former first-round pick raises questions about why the Blackhawks might consider moving him.

Ferraro, at 26 years old, presents an attractive option for contenders due to his affordable contract and defensive capabilities. With contending teams keen on solidifying their blueline, Ferraro's potential trade could spark significant interest. As the trade deadline approaches, each player's situation will be closely monitored by fantasy owners and analysts alike.

Amidst a dismal season, the Chicago Blackhawks confront pivotal decisions regarding Seth Jones and other players. Jones, who requested a trade, is tied to a hefty $9.5 million annual contract for the next five years and has displayed solid offensive stats (27 points in 42 games) despite injury setbacks. The significant salary demands pose a challenge for management, especially considering his declining speed at 30 years old.

The Blackhawks are also considering the future of Connor Murphy, a dependable defenseman looking for playoff opportunities after 721 regular-season games without a playoff appearance. Murphy's contract, set at $4.4 million for one more season, may entice teams looking for defensive assets. Meanwhile, Ryan Donato is enjoying a career year, and if the Blackhawks can secure a solid return for him, it could be an avenue for rebuilding.