Florida Panthers lock in defenseman Niko Mikkola on a long-term deal, anchoring a top-four blueline through 2030 as they chase a three-peat without key stars. Mikkola brings size, skating and playoff pedigree, including a memorable EC finals goal, while Forsling, Ekblad and Jones are already signed long-term. The extension kicks in 2026-27, and Mikkola is widely expected to wear Finland’s red and white at Milan 2026. Tkachuk and Barkov injuries add risk, but the defensive core remains formidable for fantasy.

Barkov's knee surgery sidelines him indefinitely, joining Tkachuk on the Panthers' IR list and forcing a shift to depth. Bennett-Verhaeghe-Reinhart form the top trio, with Lundell centering a second line flanked by Marchand and Luostarinen. Marchand anchors the top PP with Jones on point. Lundell’s move into the top 6 boosts his fantasy upside (+5G, +7A on 2025-26 projection). Barkov’s status makes redraft rosters wary, but keeper formats still value his long-term upside and potential IR return.

Jet Greaves stole the show in Columbus' 4-1 win over Pittsburgh, turning aside 24 of 25 and continuing a flawless preseason run. The Jackets leaned on top-pairing Werenski and Fabbro to reclaim their curb appeal on the blue line, while Christiansen seized a chance with a power-play goal. Chinakhov and Johnson supplied timely scoring, and Columbus' goaltending depth—Greaves paired with Fedotov—continues to trend sharp ahead of the regular season.

Panthers stars Matthew Tkachuk and Anton Lundell joined ESPN College GameDay at the Hurricanes’ campus, then watched Miami’s big win, highlighting a growing South Florida cross-sport bond. Panthers coach Paul Maurice and Hurricanes coach Mario Cristobal praised each other’s programs, while Seth Jones noted the day’s energy and the college atmosphere. The scene signals stronger regional ties and potential for increased visibility for both teams in the near term.

Spencer Knight signs a three-year, $17.5 million extension with the Chicago Blackhawks, locking in the 24-year-old as the team’s goalie of the future after a March trade that sent Seth Jones to Florida. Knight projects as the core of Chicago’s rebuild, with Arvid Söderblom in the wings and Petr Mrazek departed. Knight went 5-8-2 in 15 appearances for Chicago post-trade, carrying a career 49-33-9 record with five shutouts as the Blackhawks chart a path back toward respectability.