Injury and lineup notes ripple through the NHL, with Luukkonen re-aggravating a lower-body issue for Buffalo and Huberdeau among those being evaluated in Calgary. Kotkaniemi also sidelined by a stick-to-face incident but nearing return. Vlasic, Hart, Varlamov, and Lee provide goaltending and lineup updates shaping early-season depth charts. Namestnikov, Toews, Batherson, Eller, Jensen, Rust, and others surface in practice or status updates, signaling streaming and matchup considerations for fantasy managers this week.

Rumors swirl around Hutson, McLeod, Hart, and Markstrom, hinting at potential roster moves or extension talks that could alter upside in the near term. Namestnikov practicing with Winnipeg, Toews listed day-to-day, and Batherson skating keep watch on several teams’ depth and PP time as injuries create opportunities. Overall, the note pack emphasizes timing of returns and which players could emerge as fantasy differences if healthy.

Fantasy takeaway: monitor status updates and practice reports closely, as even minor timing shifts can open or close top-line and power-play opportunities. The mix of returns, evaluations, and rumours suggests flexible rostering and opportunistic adds over the next several days.

The Winnipeg Jets stayed alive in the playoffs with a commanding 4-0 victory over the Dallas Stars, driven by Nikolaj Ehlers' two goals and a solid performance from Connor Hellebuyck in net. This win brings the series to 3-2 in favor of Dallas, with Game 6 looming in Dallas on Saturday. Mark Scheifele contributed a goal and an assist, while Vladislav Namestnikov also found the back of the net. The Jets showcased their strength at home, boasting a 6-1 record in the postseason. Hellebuyck's 22 saves highlighted his prowess as he effectively countered the Stars' attempts, including significant shots from Roope Hintz and Thomas Harley.

The Jets opened with a strong first period, outshooting the Stars 13-4. Despite several power plays, the Stars struggled to find any rhythm. Tensions flared in the final period as penalties were exchanged after a confrontation between Jamie Benn and Scheifele. Ehlers sealed the victory with an empty-net goal in the final minute. The Jets' ability to endure against elimination for a second time this postseason reflects their resilience, with historical odds against teams down 3-1 making this victory even more notable.

In a crucial playoff matchup, Connor Hellebuyck shone with 22 saves as the Winnipeg Jets blanked the Dallas Stars 4-0, forcing a Game 6 in the Western Conference semifinals. This victory for the Jets, bolstering their reputation as Presidents' Trophy winners, sent the series back to Dallas, where the stakes are high with Edmonton waiting for the eventual winner.

Nikolaj Ehlers was a standout for the Jets, netting two goals, while Mark Scheifele and Vladislav Namestnikov also contributed to the scoreline. Despite Jake Oettinger facing a barrage of shots, including 31 saves, the Stars struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, including a close-range shot from Tyler Seguin that hit the post.

The game also featured some rough play, with Stars captain Jamie Benn receiving a misconduct penalty after a late altercation with Scheifele. As the series unfolds, both teams are poised for an intense showdown in Game 6.

The St. Louis Blues faced a heartbreaking end to their season, coming just shy of advancing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs after a dramatic Game 7 against the Winnipeg Jets. Leading 2-0 entering the third period, the Blues appeared poised for victory until the Jets staged a remarkable comeback, scoring two late goals to force overtime. Ultimately, Adam Lowry sealed the Blues' fate with a game-winning goal in double overtime, sending St. Louis into an early offseason.

In the wake of the loss, General Manager Doug Armstrong revealed troubling news regarding defenseman Torey Krug. Armstrong stated that Krug's long-standing ankle injury, suffered in September, may force him to retire, marking a significant downturn for the 34-year-old player. Krug has had an illustrious career, including a seven-year contract with the Blues, but the invasive nature of his surgery has left his future uncertain. The Blues will now have to navigate their offseason with this crucial development in mind.

In a thrilling Game 7, the Winnipeg Jets narrowly defeated the St. Louis Blues 4-3 after a dramatic double overtime. Adam Lowry scored the decisive goal, tipping in a shot from Neal Pionk to secure Winnipeg's advancement in the playoffs. Cole Perfetti's two goals were pivotal, including a last-second shot that tied the game and stunned the crowd. Despite the absence of star center Mark Scheifele and the loss of defenseman Josh Morrissey early in the game, Winnipeg rallied from a 3-1 deficit. The Jets' next challenge will be against the Dallas Stars in the second round, marking a significant moment as this is their first postseason meeting.