The Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines by acquiring winger Matias Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth, trading a conditional third-round pick in the 2027 draft. Maccelli, 24, is coming off a lackluster 18-point season but previously had a solid 2023-24 campaign with 57 points, including 17 goals and 40 assists.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers secured Kasperi Kapanen with a one-year, $1.3 million contract. Kapanen, who was claimed off waivers from the St. Louis Blues last November, recorded 14 points in 67 games during the 2024-25 regular season and contributed an overtime goal in the playoffs.

The Vancouver Canucks also made moves, re-signing four depth players who helped their AHL affiliate clinch a championship. Forwards Aatu Raty and Arshdeep Bains inked two-year contracts, while Guillaume Brisebois and Max Sasson secured one-year deals.

As the free agency window approaches, star players like Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, and Brock Boeser are expected to test the market.

Logan Cooley stands as a testament to the profound impact Alex Ovechkin has had across generations in hockey. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Cooley idolized Ovechkin, despite the local fandom for Sidney Crosby and the Penguins. The allure of Ovechkin's slap shot and charismatic play style captivated many, including fellow Minnesotan Brock Faber, who reminisced about wearing Ovechkin jerseys.

As Ovechkin approaches Wayne Gretzky's career goals record, he continues to inspire young players like Ivan Miroshnichenko, who hailed Ovechkin as a legend, and Dmitry Kulikov, who recalled the buzz around Ovechkin's entry into the NHL. His unique blend of goal-scoring prowess and physicality has left an indelible mark, making him a pivotal figure in modern hockey.

Logan Cooley, born in the shadow of Sidney Crosby's NHL debut, grew up idolizing Alex Ovechkin amidst Pittsburgh's Penguin success. Cooley's admiration for Ovechkin, who embodies power and flair on the ice, resonates with many young players, including Brock Faber, who recalls a generation wanting to emulate the 'Great 8'. Ovechkin's legacy is evident, with numerous players, from Ivan Miroshnichenko to Wyatt Johnston, recognizing how his impact transcended borders, inspiring talents worldwide.

At 39, Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky's career goals record, while players like Niko Mikkola highlight how Ovechkin's influence helped pave the way for their own careers, illustrating a deep respect and admiration within the hockey community.