NHL this week: 7 storylines to stay up to date with the league

This season, the NHL has seen a flurry of storylines that fans cannot afford to overlook. First and foremost, Alex Ovechkin has announced that the 2026-27 season will be his final, following a record-breaking 22-year career. Ovechkin, known as "The Great 8," achieved numerous accolades over his tenure, including breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record. After retiring, he plans to return to his KHL team, Dynamo Moscow.

Another storyline involves the absence of key players from the Utah Mammoth and the Detroit Red Wings. Connor Hellebuyck, the Utah Mammoth's starting goalie, requested a trade after alleged threats to his family. Despite his valiant efforts, Hellebuyck has yet to be traded, and he skipped training camp altogether. Dylan Larkin, a former Detroit Red Wings captain, also requested a trade, and his situation remains unclear. Larkin began the season on injured reserve and has faced booing from Red Wings fans.

The Florida Panthers have faced their own set of challenges this season. Captain Alex Barkov missed the entire 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL and MCL, and has now returned to Sweden to practice with Frölunda HC. Brad Marchand, who had been out since March, has returned to the lineup and scored in his season debut. Meanwhile, Orlando Reign waived Mikey Eyssimont, and Calgary Flames waived Connor Zary and Brayden Pachal.

Matthew Robertson was also waived by the Rangers. Despite the struggles of some teams, there is still hope for an undefeated season. Currently, the Pittsburgh Penguins, San Jose Sharks, Anaheim Ducks, Colorado Avalanche, Minnesota Wild, and Ottawa Senators are undefeated, making an undefeated season mathematically possible.