Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Niko Mikkola across Hockey.
The Carolina Hurricanes captured the 2025 Stanley Cup without any player exceeding a $10 million cap hit, marking the first championship in the salary‑cap era to meet that benchmark and highlighting the power of balanced roster construction.
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.
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.
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.