Category Giants redefine value in ESPN-style NHL H2H: chase specialists who dominate one category while still contributing elsewhere. The guide spotlights Connor, Point and Thompson as goal engines; Keller and Raymond as power-play and playmaking forces; Bratt, Hughes and Necas as elite helpers; Crosby and Trocheck on faceoffs and multi-category impact; Tkachuk as a holistic asset. It also maps top goaltending bets for wins and ratios, offering a blueprint for category-focused rostering.

Beyond the obvious stars, the piece highlights under-the-radar threads across assists, blocks, hits, and saves, urging managers to balance floor and upside. The takeaway: structure your lineup to maximize wins in multiple categories by pairing reliable point-producers with high-category specialists and versatile netminders who can swing ratios in close battles.

Injury updates are crucial as the NHL season progresses. New Jersey Devils defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic is set for a significant recovery following knee surgery, sidelining him for the start of training camp. Meanwhile, Jesper Bratt has chosen to address a long-standing shoulder issue by opting for surgery this offseason, which could impact his performance early in the season.

On the ice, Brayden McNabb of the Vegas Golden Knights left a recent game after a hit from Edmonton Oilers' Viktor Arvidsson, raising concerns over his condition as the Golden Knights seek to solidify their roster for the upcoming season. Coaches are also making headlines, with the Anaheim Ducks announcing Joel Quenneville’s return as head coach. This decision comes after a thorough review of his past, reflecting a commitment to both performance and accountability.

In a competitive playoff matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes took a commanding 2-0 series lead against the New Jersey Devils with a 3-1 victory. Jordan Martinook's shorthanded goal in the second period shifted momentum in favor of Carolina, contributing to their strategic advantage. Frederik Andersen stood tall in goal, making 25 saves and maintaining control defensively throughout the game.

Seth Jarvis sealed the game with an empty-netter, while Shayne Gostisbehere also found the net, showcasing the Hurricanes' depth. Jesper Bratt managed to score for the Devils, but New Jersey struggled without key defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon. The series now shifts to Newark for Game 3, where the Devils will aim to rebound against a resilient Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils faced a tough challenge in Game 2 of their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat. The Hurricanes took a commanding 2-0 lead in the series, with Jordan Martinook proving to be a thorn in the Devils’ side, scoring a goal and providing an assist. This marks Martinook's impressive tally of four goals and 13 points in seven playoff games against New Jersey.

Despite a bright start from the Devils, who took the lead early in the first period through Jesper Bratt, the Hurricanes quickly responded, scoring twice in the second period. Shayne Gostisbehere and Martinook's short-handed goal turned the tide in favor of Carolina. The Devils struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with only 25 shots on goal, while their defense was also tested as they played without key players Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon.