The 2025–26 Norris Trophy landscape centers on three frontrunners: Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes and Zach Werenski, with a pack of seasoned stars ready to push. Makar sits as the +135 favorite, driven by 30 goals and 92 points last season, plus heavy minutes and elite power play. Hughes trails at +190, known for 60 assists and 76 points in 68 games, with durability the key risk. Werenski jumps to +850 after a 82-point breakout season, yet team context and playoff progress could swing the vote. Beyond them, the field features Dahlin, Josi and others who could seize momentum in a tight, narrative-driven race.

In a surprising twist, recent developments surrounding several NHL players have caught the attention of fantasy managers and avid fans alike. The recent trades and injuries are reshaping the dynamics of player performance and team strategies for the upcoming season.

Among the most noteworthy updates, teams are scrambling to adjust their rosters, with key players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews facing pivotal roles in their franchises. As teams vie for playoff spots, the implications for fantasy leagues could be significant, especially for those who rely heavily on star players. The shifting landscape of injuries is causing ripples, forcing some teams to lean on secondary players who may not be as appealing on paper but could offer unexpected value. With the season heating up, careful monitoring of player statuses and team formations will be essential for fantasy success.

With the NHL season in full swing, the New York Rangers are emerging as a powerhouse led by their star forward Artemi Panarin, whose playmaking abilities and offensive prowess are turning heads. His chemistry with teammates like Mika Zibanejad has resulted in a significant uptick in points for the Rangers, positioning them well in the Eastern Conference standings.

On the other hand, the Columbus Blue Jackets face challenges, especially with key injuries impacting their lineup. Players like Zach Werenski and Johnny Gaudreau have been struggling to find consistency, raising concerns among fantasy managers regarding their potential for this season. As the trade deadline approaches, both teams are under pressure to solidify their rosters for a strong playoff push.

Ivan Provorov has opted to remain with the Columbus Blue Jackets, signing a lucrative seven-year contract extension valued at $8.5 million annually. The 28-year-old defenseman was poised to enter free agency, making this decision noteworthy.

This move follows Aaron Ekblad's recent extension with the Florida Panthers, highlighting the trend of key players choosing continuity with their current teams. The Blue Jackets, having missed the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, are shifting their narrative from rebuilding to a more competitive outlook, aiming for playoff contention by the 2025-26 season.

Provorov's performance last season included seven goals and 33 points over 82 games, along with an impressive average of over 23 minutes on the ice per game. His presence is expected to bolster a defense that includes Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski, as the Jackets look to build on a promising finish to last season.