The Vancouver Canucks are entering a transformative offseason marked by significant changes. Star center Elias Pettersson, who recorded 45 points in 64 games last season, has been placed on the trade market ahead of his no-movement clause activation on July 1. Despite a drop in production, the Canucks maintain a high asking price, indicating their reluctance to part ways without substantial return. Buffalo Sabres, among several interested teams, may re-emerge as a contender to acquire Pettersson after another disappointing season. Meanwhile, the Canucks have promoted Adam Foote to head coach, sparking conversations about the future of key veterans, including Quinn Hughes and Brock Boeser.

Hilary Knight has announced that she will retire from Olympic hockey following the upcoming Milan Olympics, marking her fifth and final Games. At 36, Knight remains a powerhouse in women's hockey, having recently led the U.S. team to victory at the World Championships, her tenth title. She has significantly shaped women's hockey, advocating for better treatment and the establishment of the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), which has seen impressive growth, including a surge in attendance. Knight's play has been instrumental, but her off-ice legacy may be even more impactful as she pushes for professional opportunities for future generations.

Despite her impending retirement, Knight intends to continue playing in the PWHL and has aspirations beyond hockey, including potentially owning an NHL team. She reflects on the camaraderie and history she has built with her teammates, emphasizing the importance of the collective grind and memories shared within the sport.

Former Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith, celebrated for his integral role in the team's three Stanley Cup victories, threw the honorary first pitch at Wrigley Field ahead of the Crosstown Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. The moment held significant weight, not only representing Keith's connection to Chicago but also honoring his legacy after spending 16 of his 17 NHL seasons with the Blackhawks. His impressive career statistics include 106 goals and 540 assists, totaling 646 points. Fans were delighted to see this local hero throw out the first pitch, a reflection of his fondness in the city.

The anticipation for the 199th Game 7 in NHL history is palpable, especially with the matchup between the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars. Historically evenly matched, the Avalanche have shown superiority in five-on-five play, leading in shot attempts, scoring chances, and expected goals. However, their downfall has been on special teams, and goaltender Jake Oettinger of the Stars has been outstanding, saving nearly three goals above average, keeping the Stars in contention.

The Avalanche have a dismal record in Game 7s, having lost six straight since their last win in 2022. Coach Jared Bednar and star Nathan MacKinnon have yet to clinch a Game 7 victory, while Stars coach Pete DeBoer has an impressive 100% win rate in such situations. The stakes couldn’t be higher, especially with key absences on the Stars roster, including Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson, raising questions about their ability to compete with a full-strength Avalanche team.