Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Aaron Ekblad across Hockey.
General manager Bill Zito is shaping the Panthers' lineup for the upcoming season, balancing a modest $5.8 million cap cushion with strategic acquisitions and the flexibility to exceed the NHL's $104 million ceiling.
The Panthers have most of their roster set, but they must fill two goaltending spots, re-sign restricted free agents and navigate a tight salary cap before the new season begins.
Hockey enthusiasts converged at the Baptist Health IcePlex to celebrate the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft, enjoying a special panel, public skating, and the electric buzz of anticipation.
The San Jose Sharks selected Keaton Verhoeff with the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, a move that highlights the team’s focus on size, mobility and offensive upside.
With six selections and no first‑round slot, the Florida Panthers are leveraging deep scouting and community outreach as the 2026 NHL Draft lands in Buffalo, where the Sabres will host the event and fans will be invited to a supply‑drive party.
The 2026 NHL Draft will begin on June 26 with live coverage on Sportsnet and ESPN, continuing on June 27 across multiple networks. This article explores the draft histories of OHL clubs and highlights the players who are poised to become the next generation of NHL stars.
After acquiring Brady Tkachuk from the Ottawa Senators, Florida’s leadership says the work isn’t finished. With goaltending, draft picks and free agency on the agenda, the Panthers aim to rebound from a missed playoff season and re‑enter the Cup conversation.
From the Frozen Four to the NHL draft board, a new archetype of defensemen is reshaping championship teams.
After a four‑year stint that helped the Florida Panthers reach the 2023 Stanley Cup Final, Radko Gudas faces free agency with the team weighing a potential reunion against financial and roster considerations.
Veteran defenseman Radko Gudas, 36, is generating league‑wide interest after a 13‑point, 56‑game season with the Ducks. With 657 hits and 420 blocks to his name, he could command a two‑ to three‑year deal averaging $3.5 million to $4 million, prompting the Panthers and Maple Leafs to consider a fit.
A look at the divergent criteria used by fans and league evaluators when ranking NHL defensemen, and what that means for the future of the position.
At 17, Keaton Verhoeff left the Western Hockey League and stepped onto the ice for the University of North Dakota, helping the Fighting Hawks reach the Frozen Four and earning a spot on Canada’s 2026 World Junior roster.
Analysts predict the Toronto Maple Leafs will select Gavin McKenna first, with San Jose, Vancouver and Chicago following suit, while a host of prospects prepare for their NHL futures.
A look at the deep pool of defensemen, the leading candidates, and the complex decision‑making that will shape the 2026 draft.
The Seattle Kraken are poised to make a notable selection at the top of the upcoming NHL Draft, eyeing University of North Dakota defenseman Keaton Verhoeff as a potential cornerstone for their blue line. Meanwhile, the Coachella Valley Firebirds are locked in a tightly contested series against the Colorado Eagles, with J.R. Avon delivering a pivotal performance. The Kraken's ECHL affiliate, the Kansas City Mavericks, have completed a four‑game sweep of the Mountain Division Finals, extending their perfect postseason record.