The Colorado Avalanche have strengthened their coaching staff by hiring Mark Popovic as their new skills coach. This move reflects the team’s continued commitment to player development and on-ice performance. Popovic has previously worked with the Avalanche in a consultant role, and his promotion to a full-time position marks a significant step forward in his coaching career.
Popovic, 42, brings a wealth of experience from his playing days. Drafted 35th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in 2001, he played 81 regular-season NHL games with both the Ducks and the Atlanta Thrashers. After his time in the NHL, he continued his professional hockey career in Europe for seven more years, ultimately retiring in 2017. Known for his role as a defenseman, Popovic has since transitioned into coaching and development.
Mark Popovic (NHL)
Popovic Brings Development Expertise, Community Ties, and Leadership to Avalanche Coaching Staff
Originally from Stoney Creek, Ontario, Popovic is also the founder of IGNITE HOCKEY, a Colorado-based hockey development company. His work in this space has focused on skill development, helping players grow their technical abilities. In addition, his previous connection to the Avalanche organization and ongoing work in the local hockey community made him a natural fit for the full-time role.
Following the Humboldt Broncos’ tragic bus accident in 2018, Popovic was hired by the team as their director of personal development and leadership, in addition to serving as a skills coach. He held that dual role for several years, supporting young players both on and off the ice. Popovic now replaces Toby Petersen, who held the skills coach role for two seasons before departing to become an AHL head coach within the Dallas Stars organization.
Matthew Schaefer, the first overall selection in the 2025 NHL Draft, officially signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the New York Islanders. At just 17 years old, Schaefer brings significant promise to the team after a strong but shortened season with the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). He tallied 22 points in 17 games before suffering a collarbone fracture during the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship while representing Canada.
Schaefer Returns From Injury With Determination To Earn Spot On Islanders Roster
Following his injury on December 27, Schaefer was cleared for contact by May 1 and was able to fully participate in the Islanders’ development camp in July. His quick recovery and return to form have given both him and the organization confidence heading into the new season. Schaefer has openly expressed his desire to make the NHL roster immediately, emphasizing that he is prepared for the hard work required to secure a spot.
Matthew Schaefer (NHL)
Schaefer’s attitude is grounded in humility and commitment. Despite his top-pick status and recent contract, he acknowledges that he still has to prove himself to earn a place on the Islanders’ roster. He remains focused on his goals, repeating that there is “still a lot of work to come” and displaying the determination necessary to make an impact in his rookie year.
Schaefer Eyes Roster Spot as Islanders Reshape Defense Ahead of New Season
The Islanders face an important decision regarding Schaefer’s immediate future. If he doesn’t make the NHL roster, he must return to Erie, as CHL players under 20 are not eligible for the AHL. However, the Islanders’ recent trade of defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens on June 27 opens the door for Schaefer to potentially fill a meaningful role on the team as early as this season.
Islanders head coach Patrick Roy expressed strong support for Schaefer, noting not only his skill and maturity but also his humility and gratitude. Roy’s positive remarks reflect the organization’s belief in Schaefer’s potential to succeed at the professional level.
With high expectations and a possible spot available, the stage is set for Schaefer to take a big step forward in his hockey career when the Islanders open their season against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 9.
The Colorado Avalanche led the NHL last season in high-speed skating, registering the most 22-plus mph bursts (212) and 20-plus mph bursts (2,493). Nathan MacKinnon was a major contributor, leading the League in 20-plus mph bursts (547) and tying with Connor McDavid for most 22-plus mph bursts (83). MacKinnon also finished second in overall points (116), behind only Nikita Kucherov. Additionally, he led the League in midrange shots on goal and was first among forwards in distance skated.
Makar’s Two-Way Excellence and Blackwood’s Goaltending Reinforce Colorado’s Defensive Foundation Strongly
Defenseman Cale Makar was another standout for Colorado, topping NHL defensemen with 92 points. His skating was just as impressive, leading all players at his position in 20-plus mph bursts (206) and 22-plus mph bursts (27). Offensively, he also made a significant impact with a league-leading 10 long-range goals. Makar’s ability to contribute on both ends of the ice remains a key asset for the Avalanche.
Cale Makar (NHL)
One of Colorado’s most strategic moves last seasons was acquiring goalie Mackenzie Blackwood from the San Jose Sharks. After replacing the struggling Alexandar Georgiev, Blackwood posted a strong 22-12-3 record in 37 games.
His high danger save percentage improved notably, ranking third in the playoffs at .837. Alongside Scott Wedgewood who ranked in the 94th percentile for high danger saves Blackwood gives Colorado a formidable goaltending tandem entering the new season.
Landeskog’s Return Boosts Avalanche’s Depth, Leadership, and Stanley Cup Aspirations for 2025
Captain Gabriel Landeskog returned from nearly three years away due to a knee injury and made an immediate impact. In just five playoff games, he recorded four points and ranked second in overall offensive zone time percentage (52.4%).
He was also second in even-strength offensive zone time and ranked in the 96th percentile for power-play zone time. His return adds depth, leadership, and scoring ability, keeping the Avalanche’s championship hopes alive.
Despite an early playoff exit last season, the Avalanche appear poised for a strong campaign. With elite speed from players like MacKinnon and Makar, a resurgent Landeskog, and upgraded goaltending from Blackwood and Wedgewood, Colorado remains a top contender. The team’s balance of speed, skill, and experience positions them well to make another deep playoff run and potentially recapture the Stanley Cup.
Carey Terrance, a recent acquisition by the New York Rangers in the Chris Kreider trade, made his on-ice debut with the team during their development camp. Though his drills showed some rough edges and his finishing lacked sharpness, the Rangers coaching staff, including player development coach Jed Ortmeyer, were encouraged by his openness to feedback.
Rather than reacting defensively, Terrance welcomed coaching and asked for honest input, demonstrating a mature, growth-oriented mindset. His eagerness to improve left a lasting positive impression on the organization.
Versatile, Team-First Player with Gold Medal Experience and Relentless Work Ethic
Terrance was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the second round of the 2023 NHL Draft and brings with him a strong track record of success, including three gold medals representing Team USA at various junior international tournaments. Despite his accolades, Terrance’s path has been anything but smooth.
He’s consistently earned his roles through determination and willingness to adapt ranging from being a top scorer in the Ontario Hockey League with Erie to accepting limited roles, such as penalty killer and bottom-six forward, for Team USA in the World Juniors.
Chris Kreider (NHL)
What sets Terrance apart is not just his skill, but his willingness to embrace whatever role is asked of him. Whether it’s being scratched from a lineup or playing heavy minutes on the penalty kill, Terrance never complains. Coaches and teammates alike praise his attitude and versatility.
According to U.S. coach David Carle, Terrance has a rare ability to fit seamlessly into any line or situation, always putting the team first and maintaining a positive presence. His defensive awareness and reliability are traits he takes pride in, particularly in high-stakes, championship-level tournaments.
Leadership Through Voice, Accountability, and Relentless Drive on Both Ends of the Ice
Terrance leads both by example and with his voice. He’s known for being vocal on the ice, holding both himself and his teammates accountable. That leadership style stems from his intense competitiveness and deep commitment to team success.
Carle emphasized that Terrance thrives in playoff hockey environments due to his attention to detail across all 200 feet of the ice. His ability to communicate with coaches, embrace responsibility, and bring consistency in his play makes him a player who elevates those around him.
While Terrance still needs to refine aspects of his game particularly his skating and offensive finish his overall skill set and mindset make him a promising NHL prospect. Carle compared his potential range to players like Jonathan Toews, Sam Bennett, or Vincent Trocheck, noting that even if Terrance doesn’t reach that elite tier, his competitiveness and utility still guarantee him a role.
At worst, he could become a Nate Thompson-type player: a dependable, well-liked team-first center who carves out a long NHL career. Either way, the Rangers see Carey Terrance as a valuable piece for the future.
Elias Pettersson is entering the upcoming NHL season with a strong sense of purpose, determined to bounce back from what he calls a disappointing 2024-25 campaign. Speaking at Sweden’s Olympic orientation camp, the Vancouver Canucks forward expressed his hunger for personal “revenge” after failing to meet his own standards last season.
He recorded just 45 points in 64 games, a significant drop from the 102 points he achieved in 2022-23 and even below the 89 points from 2023-24. Pettersson is clear-eyed about the setback and is determined to reclaim his peak performance.
Stronger, Healthier, and Ready: Pettersson Focuses on Redemption After Difficult Season
To prepare for a stronger season, Pettersson has focused heavily on improving his physical conditioning. At 6-foot-2 and now weighing more than his usual 176 pounds, he’s added muscle mass to enhance his speed and strength on the ice.
He noted that he’s been healthy this offseason, free from the injuries that plagued him last year, including knee tendinitis and an oblique strain. This clean bill of health has allowed him to train fully and build foundational strength that he hopes will translate into a more explosive, consistent performance.
Elias Pettersson (NHL)
The previous season was a disappointment not only for Pettersson individually but for the Canucks as a team. Despite missing the playoffs in 2024, the team had previously won the Pacific Division and made a solid postseason run.
With a lucrative eight-year, $92.8 million contract now under his belt, expectations for Pettersson are sky-high. Both Canucks management and Pettersson himself acknowledged the importance of this offseason in resetting and preparing for a more impactful year ahead.
Pettersson Embraces Leadership Role and Welcomes Key Moves to Strengthen Canucks
As he enters his eighth NHL season, Pettersson is growing into a leadership role within the Canucks, especially among the younger Swedish players like Jonathan Lekkerimaki, Linus Karlsson, and namesake Elias Pettersson.
He sees mentoring these younger teammates as an opportunity to pay forward the guidance he received earlier in his career. While he admits there’s room to grow as a leader, Pettersson is committed to leading by example and helping shape the future of the team.
Vancouver’s offseason moves have further boosted Pettersson’s confidence in the team’s direction. He praised the acquisition of gritty, goal-scoring forward Evander Kane and celebrated the re-signing of longtime teammate Brock Boeser.
These roster decisions signal the Canucks’ intent to remain competitive and build on their core. Pettersson is optimistic about the team’s chemistry and believes that keeping most of the roster intact gives them a strong chance to achieve something special this season.
As the 2025 NHL offseason enters its quietest stretch, trade rumors surrounding Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish continue to stir. Despite the lull in league activity, McTavish’s name remains a hot topic, especially as interest from multiple teams persists.
An NHL executive recently stated that while the Ducks are increasingly inclined to retain McTavish, teams are still “circling,” trying to determine if he might become available. Among the suitors reportedly keeping tabs are the Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, and notably, the Detroit Red Wings.
Yzerman-Verbeek History Fuels Detroit’s Pursuit of McTavish Amid Rising Trade Buzz
Detroit’s consistent interest in McTavish is particularly noteworthy due to the deep ties between Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Ducks GM Pat Verbeek. The two played together in Detroit and later worked closely within the Red Wings and Tampa Bay Lightning organizations.
Their longstanding professional relationship has sparked speculation that a deal between them could be more likely, given mutual trust and shared vision. Yzerman, known for bold roster moves, reportedly sees McTavish as a player who could reshape Detroit’s center depth significantly.
Mason McTavish (NHL)
McTavish, the third overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, just completed his entry-level contract and is now a restricted free agent. The 22-year-old power forward has drawn significant attention due to his size, skill, and upside.
As one of the most discussed trade assets this offseason, he was widely expected to receive at least one offer sheet. However, despite the chatter, none materialized likely because Anaheim holds ample cap space ($20.5 million) and would be in a strong position to match any offer, deterring potential aggressors.
NHL Offer Sheet Hesitance Reflects Internal Politics, Etiquette, and Steep Trade Demands
The reluctance of teams to submit an offer sheet likely reflects deeper dynamics within NHL front offices. An unnamed agent pointed out the fear among GMs of having their offer matched, which could embarrass the team and upset owners.
The so-called “Old Boys’ network” in the NHL also plays a role, where unspoken etiquette often discourages aggressive moves like offer sheets. The lack of recent examples supports this theory, leaving trades as the more likely path for acquiring players like McTavish.
Despite trade interest, Ducks GM Verbeek remains focused on signing McTavish rather than moving him. According to sources involved in discussions, the asking price is steep: a right-shot, top four defenseman with top-pairing potential. For the Red Wings, that would likely mean parting with Axel Sandin-Pellikka one of their top young defense prospects.
Given that Detroit is unlikely to move cornerstone Moritz Seider, any serious trade talk would likely center around Sandin-Pellikka, who recently debuted with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins. As it stands, McTavish appears more likely to stay put unless a team makes a compelling, franchise-altering offer.
Matthew Tkachuk has been chosen as the cover athlete for NHL 26, scheduled for release on September 12, 2025, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Tkachuk played a key role in the Florida Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup triumphs, highlighted by his decisive goal in this year’s championship win over the Edmonton Oilers.
For the Standard Edition, Tkachuk appears solo on the cover. However, the Deluxe Edition takes a family-focused approach by featuring Matthew alongside his brother Brady and their father Keith. This follows a similar theme from last year’s edition, which spotlighted the Hughes brothers Quinn, Jack, and Luke.
Matthew Tkachuk (NHL)
Pre-Order Bonuses and Gameplay Upgrades Promise a Deeper, More Dynamic NHL 26 Experience
Pre-ordering either edition comes with notable perks, including a 99 OVR card usable in the current game. The Deluxe Edition offers additional bonuses such as exclusive in-game content and early access to the game a full week ahead of the official release date.
Gameplay in NHL 26 will see several major improvements. The game will integrate NHL EDGE data for enhanced realism, expand on the X-Factors system to better represent player skills, and introduce a completely revamped Be A Pro mode. Additionally, the introduction of HUT Seasons will provide a new layer of competition and variety for players in the Hockey Ultimate Team mode.
Anton Khudobin has announced his retirement from professional hockey, closing the chapter on a 14-season NHL career. His final NHL appearance came during the 2022-23 season with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he started one game and made 22 saves in a 6-1 loss. After his NHL stint, Khudobin continued playing in Russia during the 2023-24 season, suiting up for Sibir Novosibirsk in the KHL and Sokol Krasnoyarsk in the VHL.
Drafted 206th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2004, Khudobin carved out a solid NHL career as a dependable goaltender. He posted a 114-92-33 record with a 2.52 goals-against average, a .916 save percentage, and 11 shutouts over 260 regular-season games. His journeyman path took him through six NHL teams, including the Wild, Bruins, Hurricanes, Ducks, Stars, and Blackhawks.
Anton Khudobin (NHL)
Khudobin’s 2020 Playoff Heroics Defined His Legacy As A Dependable, Clutch Performer
Khudobin’s most memorable run came during the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, when he took over as the Dallas Stars’ starting goalie. He backstopped the team through a deep playoff push, going 14-10 with a 2.63 GAA and .919 save percentage over 27 postseason games. His efforts were instrumental in the Stars reaching the Stanley Cup Final, where they ultimately fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Beyond the NHL, Khudobin also had a strong presence in the AHL, appearing in 230 regular-season games and 21 playoff games. Known for his upbeat personality, work ethic, and reliability in net, Khudobin leaves behind a legacy as a well-respected veteran who consistently rose to the occasion when called upon.
Keith Tkachuk never hoisted the Stanley Cup during his NHL career, but he’s now experienced the joy vicariously through his sons. Most recently, he was on the ice celebrating Florida’s second straight Cup win, where his son Matthew passed him the trophy. Brady Tkachuk, Keith’s younger son and a star for the Ottawa Senators, was also present, making the moment a powerful family celebration.
Matthew and Brady Tkachuk have rapidly become two of the NHL’s most recognizable stars. Their aggressive play style and off-ice charisma were on full display at the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, where they sparked three fights in nine seconds. Their growing celebrity status was further cemented when EA Sports named them cover athletes for NHL 26, featuring Keith alongside them on the Deluxe Edition.
Beyond the ice, the Tkachuk name is now prominent in pop culture as well. Brady joins brother Matthew on the Amazon Prime docuseries Faceoff: Inside the NHL, expanding the family’s reach to television audiences. Keith and his wife couldn’t be prouder, describing their current life as “living the dream,” with both sons thriving in their NHL careers and beyond.
Pride In Character, Championship Moments, And Matthew’s Impact On Florida Panthers’ Winning Culture
While Keith is impressed by his sons’ athletic achievements, what matters more to him is how they carry themselves off the ice. He emphasizes the values they live by respect, kindness, and professionalism crediting their upbringing. Though their style of play invites on-ice confrontations, he says they remain great sons and role models.
Matthew Tkachuk (NHL)
Keith has now twice celebrated with Matthew after the Panthers’ Stanley Cup wins. The most recent felt almost routine, he joked, but it was just as special. Watching Matthew win again while Brady stood by was an unforgettable moment. Their closeness as a team and family made the victory and post-win celebrations even sweeter.
Panthers GM Bill Zito credits Matthew for the team’s swagger and championship mindset. Keith shares this pride, noting Matthew specifically chose Florida and found an ideal fit with coach Paul Maurice and the organization’s culture. Their synergy helped lead to back-to-back championships, validating the bold trade that brought him there.
Brady’s Loyalty, Olympic Dreams, Development Journeys, And Keith’s Quiet Hall Of Fame Case
Amid speculation about Brady’s future in Ottawa, Keith quickly shut down rumors. He reaffirmed Brady’s love for the city and commitment to the franchise’s future. Comparing it to the situation Matthew had in Calgary, Keith cautioned against assuming a similar path, stating Brady is deeply rooted in the community and dedicated to helping Ottawa rise.
Brady Tkachuk (NHL)
Keith is excited about the possibility of both sons playing for Team USA in the 2026 Winter Olympics. Having them named among the first selections was already a point of pride, but winning Olympic gold would be a dream. He recalled their recent time together at the 4 Nations Face-Off and joked about being “iced out” of their training camp highlighting their playful bond.
Reflecting on his sons’ development paths, Keith praised both NCAA and Canadian junior routes to the NHL. Matthew chose the London Knights and won a Memorial Cup, while Brady developed at Boston University, Keith’s alma mater. With new eligibility rules allowing junior players to later join college teams, Keith sees even more flexibility for young talent like Gavin McKenna, who now have expanded opportunities.
Despite scoring over 500 NHL goals, Keith Tkachuk remains one of the few eligible players not in the Hockey Hall of Fame. While fans and media continue to advocate for his induction, he stays grounded, saying his true Hall of Fame is his kids. Still, he acknowledges their success might raise his profile, but insists his main joy comes from simply being their dad and watching them play.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move by upgrading their quarterback position, bringing in veteran Aaron Rodgers. However, the anticipated improvements have not yet materialized in training camp. Concerns are emerging that the transition hasn’t yielded the immediate impact many hoped for, with the offense still searching for its rhythm.
A report by Christopher Barbre from SteelerNation.com highlights familiar issues with Rodgers’s late-career play specifically, an overreliance on short passes and checkdowns rather than pushing the ball downfield. This conservative approach is raising doubts about whether Rodgers can still deliver the dynamic playmaking expected from a top-tier quarterback.
Aaron Rodgers (NFL)
Rodgers, Metcalf Struggling to Connect as Steelers Offense Searches for Receiving Identity
One major concern is the lack of chemistry between Rodgers and star wide receiver DK Metcalf. The duo was expected to become a dominant force, but their connection has yet to develop in camp. Compounding the problem is uncertainty around who will emerge as the team’s No. 2 receiving option, which further hampers offensive cohesion.
With just over a month before the Steelers face the Jets Rodgers’s most recent former team there’s still time to iron out the issues. While the offense is being tested against a strong defense in practice, which could be beneficial long term, the early signs point to a continuation of past struggles rather than a reinvention of the offense. For now, Rodgers and the Steelers have more questions than answers.
ESPN Acquires NFL Network and RedZone in Historic Deal, NFL Takes 10% Stake in ESPN
In a landmark deal, ESPN is acquiring a significant portion of the NFL’s media assets, including the NFL Network, the RedZone channel’s linear rights, and the league’s fantasy football platform. In exchange, the National Football League will receive a 10% equity stake in ESPN. This strategic partnership marks a powerful alignment between two of the biggest forces in sports media and sets the stage for an even more integrated fan experience across platforms.
ESPN Gains Control of NFL Network, RedZone, and Expands Game Broadcast Rights
As part of the agreement, ESPN will take over the operation of the NFL Network, gaining full control over both its linear and digital rights. The network will be integrated into ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service, while still being accessible via traditional cable TV. ESPN also gains control over the RedZone brand and its cable distribution, although the NFL will retain production control and digital distribution rights.
ESPN Acquires NFL Network and RedZone in Historic Deal, NFL Takes 10% Stake in ESPN
The deal grants ESPN rights to three additional NFL games per season, increasing its total to 28 games. While NFL Network will continue broadcasting seven games annually, the schedule will now involve strategic shifts between ESPN and NFL Network broadcasts. ESPN also licensed additional NFL intellectual property and content for distribution across its platforms, boosting its overall football programming offerings.
Disney Expands NFL Draft Streaming With ESPN, Hulu, and New DTC Service Launch
Disney+ and Hulu will begin streaming NFL Draft coverage starting in 2026, alongside ESPN, ABC, and ESPN Deportes. ESPN and ABC will cover the first three rounds on Thursday and Friday, with ESPN handling the later rounds and ABC simulcasting on Saturday. Additional alternate telecasts may be added for the full seven rounds. Popular ESPN programming like College GameDay and NFL Live will continue their on-site presence during the draft.
ESPN’s new DTC service is set to launch on August 21, priced at $29.99/month. Subscribers will gain access to all seven ESPN linear networks, ESPN on ABC, and extra streaming content. This move aligns with Disney’s broader push into digital streaming and reinforces ESPN’s position as a leader in sports media. However, final approval from NFL owners and regulators is still required before the deal is officially finalized.
Former NFL running back Leshon Johnson, 54, has been convicted by a federal jury on six felony counts tied to a dogfighting and trafficking operation, which involved the largest number of dogs ever seized in such a case.
The operation led to the government taking custody of 190 dogs, which are now under the care of the U.S. Marshals Service as part of the asset forfeiture process. Johnson, who played for the Green Bay Packers, St. Louis Cardinals, and New York Giants, has not yet been sentenced but could face severe penalties.
Johnson’s Nationwide Dog Trafficking Operation Fueled Growth of Organized Animal Fighting Rings
Johnson’s conviction follows a long history of involvement in illegal dogfighting activities, including a previous conviction in 2004. His latest indictment, unsealed earlier this year, revealed that he operated a business called “Mal Kant Kennels” out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
The federal jury heard compelling evidence that Johnson bred, sold, and trafficked dogs specifically for fighting, many of which were described as “champion” or “grand champion” fighters.
Leshon Johnson (NFL)
The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Johnson’s operation had national reach, trafficking dogs to other states including Oregon and Indiana. His efforts contributed to the spread of dogfighting across the country, making his case particularly significant in the eyes of federal prosecutors.
While Johnson was not convicted of directly participating in dogfights, his involvement in breeding and selling dogs for the purpose of fighting formed the basis of the charges.
Federal Officials Condemn Dogfighting Crimes, Emphasize Commitment to Animal Cruelty Enforcement
Attorney General Pamela Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel both condemned Johnson’s actions, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to ending animal cruelty and organized dogfighting.
Patel called the crime “despicable,” while Bondi praised the collaboration among law enforcement agencies that ensured the safety of 190 abused dogs. The trial, held in the U.S. District Court in Muskogee, saw the jury deliberate for two days before delivering the verdict.
Out of the 19 counts Johnson faced for possession of dogs used in dogfighting, he was found guilty of only two. However, he was also convicted on additional counts related to the sale and transport of dogs across state lines for fighting purposes.
Johnson now faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the six counts. His sentencing date has yet to be scheduled, and the case marks a critical legal win in the ongoing fight against animal cruelty in the United States.
