Buffalo Sabres are nudging toward adding a proven top-six forward, eyeing Eeli Tolvanen as a plausible midseason target if Seattle isn’t in the playoff chase. Tolvanen posted a career-high 23 goals and has one year left on his deal, making him a high-upside rental with potential cost tied to a 20-goal pace and conditional picks or blue-chip prospects such as Isak Rosen, Devon Levi, or Noah Ostlund. If Seattle dangles Tolvanen, Buffalo could pursue a package that includes a first-rounder or a strong prospect, balancing immediate impact with future assets.

The chatter also covers a broader trade-market and draft-pick dynamics around 2026 selections, with Penguins’ Kyle Dubas discussing teams attempting to re-acquire their 2026 picks and the possibility of offer sheets viewed as leverage by teams like Winnipeg and San Jose. The report lists offer-sheet candidates (Sebrango, Kupari, Holtz, Zary, Evangelista, McTavish, Rossi) and notes some teams’ interest in specific names (Zary, Evangelista, McTavish, Rossi). It also notes extension talks for Dustin Wolf, UFA Matt Grzelcyk, and various waiver/rookie-target angles shaping both teams’ in-season contorts. The piece closes with a reminder to subscribe and follow for ongoing rumor-driven discussions across the league.

Speculation surrounding Brady Tkachuk's happiness with the Ottawa Senators has been put to rest by his father, Keith. He stated that Brady is very content in Ottawa, emphasizing that he has fully integrated himself into the community and the team, which is on the rise. With a strong young core, the Senators have become a promising franchise, and Tkachuk has made it clear that he intends to remain a key player moving forward.

Meanwhile, discussions on restricted free agents (RFAs) continue. Players like Luke Hughes and Mason McTavish are navigating potential contracts that could shape the future of their teams. Hughes may aim for a deal reflective of the recent contracts signed by other players in similar positions, while McTavish's GM indicates a measured approach toward negotiations. Teams like the Minnesota Wild and New Jersey Devils are also facing crucial decisions regarding their RFAs.

Michigan State's Isaac Howard, a standout junior forward, captured the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the best player in college hockey. At just 21 years old, Howard led the nation with an impressive average of 1.41 points per game. This accolade makes him the first Spartan to win since Ryan Miller in 2001, solidifying his place in the school's history. With 52 points from 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games, he played a pivotal role in guiding Michigan State to both the Big Ten regular season and conference tournament titles.

Howard triumphed over finalists Zeev Buium from Denver and Ryan Leonard of Boston College, the latter already making waves in the NHL with the Washington Capitals. In related honors, Boston College's Jacob Fowler secured the Mike Richter Award as the top goalie, showcasing his exceptional skills with a .940 save percentage. As the NCAA Frozen Four approaches, the spotlight remains on Howard and his potential future in the NHL.

The Cleveland Monsters suffered a heavy defeat against the Rochester Americans, losing 6-1 at Blue Cross Arena. This loss places the Monsters at a record of 2-3-0-0, tied for fifth in the AHL’s North Division.

Rochester's Graham Slaggert opened the scoring early, and the Americans maintained their offensive momentum throughout the game. Despite a goal from Chris Wilkie in the third period, the Monsters couldn't close the gap, with Rochester sealing the win with a late goal from Noah Östlund.