Ilya Sorokin has firmly dismissed trade rumors circulating around him, emphasizing the importance of his no-trade clause and highlighting the noise that comes with being a high-profile athlete. With an $8.25 million cap hit and a full no-movement clause, he insists that he has never been part of any trade discussions, as confirmed by his agent. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild are navigating their own negotiations, particularly concerning Kirill Kaprizov's extension and Marco Rossi's contract, indicating they are prepared to match any potential offer sheets. The ongoing RFA landscape raises questions about teams' strategies in contract negotiations.

Aiden Hreschuk is on the verge of becoming a UFA as the Columbus Blue Jackets have opted not to sign the Boston College defenseman before the August 15 deadline. Meanwhile, trade discussions surrounding New York Islanders' goaltender Ilya Sorokin have surfaced, with whispers of potential moves heating up. Additionally, the Toronto Maple Leafs have shown significant interest in acquiring Erik Karlsson from the Pittsburgh Penguins, with speculation that salary retention may be necessary. Karlsson, at a $10 million cap hit, could help bolster Toronto's blue line, especially in the wake of losing Marner. The Leafs are also pursuing Dougie Hamilton from the New Jersey Devils for similar reasons, indicating a clear strategy to improve their offensive output from the defense.

The New York Islanders made headlines by winning their first No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft Lottery since 2009, despite entering with only a 3.5% chance. This unexpected victory signals a pivotal moment for the franchise, which ended last season with a mediocre record of 35-35-12. The organization is now tasked with significant decisions, including replacing longtime general manager Lou Lamoriello and targeting offensive reinforcements.

Analysts suggest that the Islanders' considerable cap space of around $30 million provides them flexibility in pursuing key players. However, offloading core members like Ryan Pulock or Mathew Barzal could exacerbate existing issues on the defensive front. With top draft prospects such as Matthew Schaefer and Michael Misa available, the upcoming offseason will demand strategic maneuvering from the new GM to revitalize the team.

Boston Bruins' coach Joe Sacco confirmed that defenseman Charlie McAvoy and forward Mark Kastelic are both out for the season, which could significantly impact the team's playoff chances. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are dealing with Shayne Gostisbehere, who missed a recent game due to an upper-body injury. On the Columbus Blue Jackets front, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has also missed a game due to injury.

In New York, the Islanders' Ilya Sorokin is uncertain for the remainder of the season following a lower-body injury. However, fellow defenseman K’Andre Miller has returned to the Rangers' lineup after a brief absence due to illness. The Ottawa Senators’ Brady Tkachuk expects to soon resume skating, aiming for a timely return ahead of the playoffs.

The Penguins are facing a tough period, losing Tommy Novak, Blake Lizotte, Noel Acciari, Matt Nieto, and Rutger McGroarty for the season. Lastly, Jakob Chychrun of the Capitals was a late scratch due to illness, highlighting the ongoing injury challenges faced by teams as they approach critical late-season games.

Alex Ovechkin has etched his name into NHL history by becoming the all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Wayne Gretzky's long-standing record of 894 goals with his 895th goal during a match against the New York Islanders. The moment was marked with jubilation as Ovechkin celebrated with teammates and fans, expressing gratitude towards his family and the entire Capitals organization. He acknowledged his goal came against Ilya Sorokin, a fellow Russian goaltender, marking a personal milestone as he'd never scored on him before.

The achievement is a testament to Ovechkin's durability and consistency, achieving this milestone in his 1,487th game, the same number Gretzky played. Ovechkin's journey to this point has captivated audiences across North America and Russia, with billboards tracking his progress. He now looks towards reaching 900 goals, building on his legacy.