Gustavsson's five-year, $34 million extension locks Minnesota's goalie future as Kirill Kaprizov's historic deal signals a capital-heavy core. Gustavsson started 58 games last season, posted a 31-19-6 record with five shutouts and a 2.56 GAA, proving he can shoulder a heavy workload and carry fantasy value into the next era.

The extension follows a breakout season and the 2022 Ottawa trade that began his rise in Minnesota, signaling trust in him as a true No.1. With Kaprizov providing elite offense, Gustavsson's durability gives fantasy managers a stable, high-volume starter in a franchise-building period.

Evgeni Malkin's final Penguins season could trigger a bold deadline move. The Florida Panthers are eyed as a fit, aided by salary retention that might let Barkov stay for the playoffs if the deal comes together, with proximity to Malkin’s Miami-area home adding appeal. The chatter hinges on cap math and Pittsburgh’s willingness to move a core piece while chasing a playoff window.

Crosby and Letang anchor the era as Fleury’s preseason visit fuels intrigue. If Florida can keep Bobrovsky and still maneuver Barkov, a path to a Malkin swap exists—so long as the player is open to relocation and the dollars align.

Two fresh Skating Penguin Network episodes land: one with CJ Gamble of 96 Brand detailing a retro Nike-inspired hockey gear revival and the brand’s path forward, the other recaps Marc-Andre Fleury’s Pittsburgh farewell and the Penguins’ preseason push toward opening night.

Gamble’s journey blends nostalgia with a new brand identity as he designed skates for Malkin, Letang and Crosby, while Pittsburgh’s camp stokes roster battles and honors Fleury, signaling a return-to-form for a Crosby–Malkin era and plenty of fantasy implications as training camp winds down.

Marc-Andre Fleury's farewell night in Pittsburgh capped a 21-year NHL journey. In a 4-1 win over Columbus he stopped eight third-period shots, drawing a standing ovation as he celebrated three Cups and a Penguins legacy.

The moment linked Fleury's Pittsburgh arc with Vegas, Chicago and Minnesota, as Crosby, Malkin and Letang saluted him and the crowd roared like a playoff moment, sealing a storied career in a single ceremonial night.