The Capitals placed Mitch Love on team-imposed leave as an NHL investigation unfolds, keeping details private while training camp approaches. The league has not disclosed misconduct specifics, and Capitals officials will comment after the investigation. Love, a former enforcer turned coach, drew head-coaching interest this offseason, with ESPN reporting letters about his conduct that triggered the inquiry and indicating the issue began before he joined Washington.

Elias Pettersson is healthy and believes the Canucks can elevate their ceiling this season, stressing a focused training camp and a strong start in Penticton ahead of a 2025-26 push. Vancouver aims to rebound from injuries and a playoff miss, using a stable core and a refreshed staff to set a sharper tone at season’s start.

The club kept its core in place, with Brock Boeser signing a seven-year, $50.75M extension, Thatcher Demko locking in for three years, and Conor Garland signing for six. Vancouver opted for internal continuity, elevating Adam Foote to head coach, signaling trust in the current group and a clearer, defense-anchored path forward.

Veteran voices like Tyler Myers emphasize turning last season’s lessons into a fresh start, while the club eyes improved offense after a disappointing showing. The season opener on Oct. 9 against Calgary will test a healthier roster as the Canucks pursue a return to the playoffs.

NHLPA rookie showcase underscored how young these prospects are, with David Reinbacher molding his game after Brock Faber and Matthew Schaefer adjusting to pro life as an Islanders No. 1 pick. NCAA-CHL shifts, NIL chatter, and a potential 19-year-old AHL loan rule loom large for development paths and fantasy timelines. The event also highlighted emerging prospects like Karsen Dorwart, Zeev Buium, Zayne Parekh, and Berkly Catton as they navigate camps, contracts, and the evolving ladder from juniors or college to the NHL.

The piece stresses how college routes and junior leagues are intersecting more than ever, reshaping player timelines and fantasy value. With Roy’s influence on Schaefer, the NCAA eligibility changes, and the looming 19-year-old AHL loan rule, executives and fantasy players alike should recalibrate expectations for rookie debuts and long-term upside across the Isles, Flames, Flyers, and beyond.