
2026 NHL Draft Produces Deep Talent Pool Ahead of Calder Trophy Race
The 2026 NHL draft delivered a remarkably deep rookie class, setting the stage for a fierce Calder Trophy race that could reshape the league’s offensive landscape.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Ilya Protas across Hockey, Soccer.

The 2026 NHL draft delivered a remarkably deep rookie class, setting the stage for a fierce Calder Trophy race that could reshape the league’s offensive landscape.

The International Ice Hockey Federation announced a sweeping exclusion of Russia from its flagship events for the 2026‑27 season, while allowing Belarus limited entry and highlighting the upcoming tournaments in Canada and Germany.

From defensive standouts to goaltending gems, the American Hockey League is delivering a fresh wave of talent ready to influence NHL rosters.

The Washington Capitals star discusses his sons' passion for hockey, their home practice setup, and their training at a Moscow academy that prioritizes love of the game over pressure to become stars.

Swedish forward Viggo Bjorck, the eighth‑overall pick in the 2026 NHL draft, will begin his North American career with the Manitoba Moose, a move the Winnipeg Jets say is designed to nurture his two‑way game before any NHL call‑up.

After a fifth‑place finish in the Atlantic Division, the Hershey Bears have signed veteran defenseman Jacob MacDonald to a one‑year, two‑way contract, hoping his offensive and defensive prowess will spark a Calder Cup run.

With free agency looming, Ovechkin’s decision hinges on the Capitals’ aggressive moves, cap space and a potential third‑line role centered by Ilya Protas.

From the Kyrou twins to the van Riemsdyk brothers, the Washington Capitals host a rare concentration of sibling duos, each sharing dreams of sharing the ice and the camaraderie that only family can bring.

The American Hockey League has named its 2025‑26 Top Prospects Team, recognizing standout performances across forwards, defensemen, and goaltenders.

The Protas twins, known for their hockey careers, visited the Belarusian national team, swapped gear, tested penalty kicks, and engaged fans as part of a Betera‑organized campaign.