Dallas Stars topped the Blues 5-3 in a lively preseason tilt, improving to 4-1 in exhibition play. Early were Lyubushkin and Johnston for a 2-0 burst, though St. Louis answered with Holloway and Broberg. Faksa’s return goal against his old team helped Dallas reclaim the lead, with Seguin adding a goal and two assists and Robertson sealing it with an empty-netter. Dallas outshot 30-24 as DeSmith stopped 21 of 24 shots.

NHL rumor cycle centers on contract tempo for a slate of young stars and noted veterans. Logan Cooley sits on an entry level with Utah Mammoth, talks paused as he focuses on this season, with a likely in season revisit. Dylan Holloway may see extensions hinge on a strong start in St. Louis, while Bobby McMann has yet to enter talks with Toronto. Carter Hart's value is tethered to Vegas cap gymnastics, and Kiefer Sherwood remains unsigned in Vancouver. Rasmus Andersson remains a hot commodity with Dallas leading the charge and several rivals circling, including Toronto, Tampa Bay, Detroit, Columbus, and Boston. Earlier chatter between Vegas and Calgary faded, but teams still sniff around.

Fantasy players should monitor early-season production from Cooley, Holloway, and Hart as potential catalysts for contract chatter that could shift roles or incentives. Andersson's market activity signals a broader right shot defensemen premium; keep an eye on how cap space and LTIR usage shape signings. With inquiries spanning Canadiens, Senators, and others, the coming weeks could redraw depth charts and power dynamics across the league.

Dylan Holloway is set to undergo a recovery process following surgery for an undisclosed injury, with expectations to return for the 2025-26 season. Holloway, a pivotal forward for the St. Louis Blues, had a standout season before his injury, finishing with 26 goals and 37 assists across 77 games. His absence was felt during the playoffs, where the Blues fell to the Winnipeg Jets in the first round.

The situation is less optimistic for veteran defenseman Torey Krug, who missed the entire last season due to invasive ankle surgery aimed at addressing pre-arthritic conditions. General Manager Doug Armstrong has indicated that while Krug is hopeful for a return, the prognosis remains uncertain.