Kaprizov’s extension talks hinge on term as much as money, with Minnesota balancing a return to playoff contention against cap realities. The Wild can’t afford a repeat of past exits, so they’re weighing a long-term pledge or trading rights if Decembers pass without a deal.

The saga nods to Gaborik’s Wild era as a cautionary tale: timing, health, and fit decide a franchise horizon. Kaprizov wants to win, and Minnesota’s cap space recovery underpins the leverage as McDavid’s market moves loom large in the league.

The Capitals unveil red, throwback alternates featuring the Screaming Eagle on a bright red field, fusing 1970s sleeve stripes with a rounded white yoke and a 1990s Capitol Dome shoulder patch. Three-star groups honor DC, Maryland and Virginia fans, tying history to present branding. The debut is Oct. 17 at home vs Minnesota Wild, with Coupang replacing TikTok as the jersey sponsor for this season, signaling a nostalgia-driven merch push.

The redesign blends eras to sharpen franchise nostalgia while keeping the core identity intact, and the sponsor shift marks a broader branding push for the season ahead.

Dallas Stars begin training camp in Frisco under Glen Gulutzan, welcoming a veteran roster that aims to finally push past the Western Conference finals. Roster decisions loom for a seventh defenseman and a potential 23rd forward as the new staff tries to mesh with a group built to win a Stanley Cup.

Defense battles center on Alexander Petrovic, Kyle Capobianco and Vladislav Kolyachonok, while Wyatt Johnston, Oskar Bäck and Arttu Hyry push for NHL roles. Health is in focus after last season's injuries, with updates on Roope Hintz, Miro Heiskanen and Jake Oettinger guiding expectations for opening night.