Columbus Blue Jackets surprised again by leaning into internal growth. Fantilli and Johnson appear poised to shoulder more responsibility, while Monahan’s health and a steadier goaltending situation could lift the offense. The team might take a small step back in wins but improve as a cohesive unit, with a potential deadline pivot toward adding a proven goalie.

Utah Mammoth eye a playoff push, anchored by goaltending and a young core that could blossom in a tougher Central. Vancouver Canucks enter a season of high drama, from leadership and scoring to Demko’s health and a shifting locker room. If Pettersson and Kane deliver, Vancouver can swing between top-three ceiling and mid-pack volatility; October will tell.

Two fantasy hockey hosts zero in on possible regression candidates for draft season, highlighting six names with clear red-flag potential. Heiskanen carries a lower offensive ceiling than elite peers, especially if Dallas splits the power-play duties with Harley. Moritz Seider’s point output may not reach the outlier 73 seen once, and his floor sits around the 40–50 range depending on PP deployment. Swayman faces a leaky Boston defense and could lose value in a 50/50 split, while Pettersson’s production could dip from a career peak amid Vancouver’s surrounding turmoil. Seth Jarvis sits in a similar risk zone, with upside largely tied to team context and line mates.

Harley’s emergence shakes up Dallas’ top unit talk, presenting a classic dynasty vs. redraft moment: is Harley the new PP1 quarterback, or does Heiskanen still anchor power plays enough to keep him valuable in categories that reward shots and blocks? The conversation threads through targets and fades to guide savvy fantasy managers on where to push or pass in the early rounds.

The Vancouver Canucks are in a tight playoff race but face significant challenges with recent injuries to star players Elias Pettersson and Nils Hoglander. After a crushing loss to the New York Rangers, where they conceded five goals on just twelve shots, the team's hopes for a postseason berth are fading. Both Pettersson and Hoglander left the game against the Rangers and missed practice ahead of their upcoming match against the New Jersey Devils. As the Canucks continue to struggle with scoring, losing two key forwards could be detrimental.

This season has been a roller coaster for the Canucks, marked by the highs of forming a new top line featuring Hoglander and Pettersson, alongside Brock Boeser, and the lows of their scoring struggles. The team remains one of the lowest in goals per game, and with key players potentially sidelined, their playoff aspirations could hinge on the return of goaltender Thatcher Demko and securing crucial victories on their upcoming road trip.

Quinn Hughes showcased his exceptional skills, scoring two goals in a dynamic performance against the Washington Capitals, leading the Vancouver Canucks to victory. The Canucks took an early lead, showcasing their offensive prowess, especially through Hughes, who maneuvered through the Capitals' defense effectively.

The Capitals struggled to find their rhythm, unable to capitalize on power play opportunities. Charlie Lindgren made several crucial saves, but ultimately, Hughes's backhander proved too much for him. The game was marked by a flurry of shots from both teams, with Vancouver maintaining a high level of puck possession.

As the game progressed, the Capitals showed signs of life, finally getting on the board with a goal that narrowed the gap. However, the Canucks' defense held strong, and despite some late-game pressure from Washington, Vancouver secured the win, handing the Capitals their first regulation loss of the new year.

The Vancouver Canucks are facing troubling times as JT Miller's potential trade to the New York Rangers collapsed, leaving him as a healthy scratch and contributing to the team's ongoing struggles. The Canucks recently lost to the Buffalo Sabres, continuing a disheartening trend of poor performance that includes failing to win back-to-back games since late November. Miller's lackluster performance, with only one goal in his last 20 games, raises concerns about his future in Vancouver and the team's overall direction.

Amidst trade discussions, the New Jersey Devils have emerged as an intriguing option for Miller, although concerns about 'selling low' on a player of his caliber persist. Meanwhile, the Rangers are riding high after a dominant victory over the Ottawa Senators, showcasing their depth and performance at a crucial point in the season. With a playoff race heating up, the implications of Miller's situation could significantly impact both the Canucks and any potential suitors like the Devils or the Rangers.