Detroit expects James van Riemsdyk to join practice soon after missing camp for family reasons, with a return likely ahead of the Oct. 9 season opener. He’ll need medical clearance and on-ice ramp-up, giving him roughly a week to settle in.

In JVR's absence, Emmitt Finnie, Elmer Söderblom and Jonatan Berggren have shared top-line duties with Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. Detroit will be cautious with physicals but aims to have the veteran contributing when the puck drops, shaping early-season fantasy projections.

Matthew Knies edges Jack Hughes for Team USA's Olympic roster, thanks to size, puck battles, and a reliable two-way game that translates to a playoff stage. Hughes remains elite, but injury history and a need for versatile wing play tilt the balance toward Knies.

The discussion leans into Matthews anchoring a top line with Guentzel and Tage Thompson, with Eichel slotting between Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk. Connor, Larkin, Keller, Trocheck and Boldy provide depth and PP options, leaving Knies in a critical, but off-top-line, role.

Lane Hutson's rising puck-moving ceiling and Knies's stage presence shape the roster and fantasy outlook. The outcome could redefine USA's gold bid and give fantasy managers a fresh angle on Olympic exposure and value.

USA Hockey invited 44 NHL players to a two day orientation in Plymouth, Michigan on Aug 26 27 as an early peek at the 2026 Olympic roster. The event is mainly administrative and team building with no on ice work, and attendance does not guarantee a spot on the final 25 man team, which will be announced in early January ahead of the Games in February 2026.

Among those invited are 23 players who played in the 4 Nations Face Off, 12 world championship gold medalists, and a mix of current stars and former Olympians such as Patrick Kane, Ryan McDonagh, Brock Faber, Matthew Knies and Jake Sanderson. The roster snapshot spans goaltenders, defensemen and forwards including top names like Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Connor Hellebuyck, Dylan Larkin, Jason Robertson, Kyle Connor, Tage Thompson, Brady Tkachuk and Vincent Trocheck. Noteworthy caveats include Matthews potential pace and Kane’s possible role given evolving surgery considerations for Tkachuk. The final 25 roster is due in January, with Olympic hockey scheduled for 2026.

On this week's episode of Good Afternoon Michigan, host Dennis Fithian dives deep into the latest happenings in the sports world, with a keen focus on the NHL landscape. The discussion highlights key matchups and player performances that could influence upcoming fantasy leagues. With the playoff race heating up, Fithian offers valuable insights into player trends and potential trade targets that fantasy managers should keep an eye on.

Listeners can expect a mix of statistical analysis and personal anecdotes, giving a well-rounded perspective on how to navigate the complexities of fantasy hockey. Fithian emphasizes the importance of staying updated with player injuries and coaching changes, which can significantly impact player value. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their fantasy strategy and gain an edge over their competition.