Makar says Avalanche can learn from playoff exit ahead of 2026-27

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar says the team will learn from its playoff elimination as the franchise prepares for the 2026-27 season. Reflecting on the postseason run, Makar noted that Colorado appeared strong for months before ultimately running out of answers against the Vegas Golden Knights. That painful exit has prompted an offseason of analysis, roster changes, and strategic adjustments. The Avalanche enter 2026-27 with a reshaped roster, using the evaluation window to address weaknesses the Golden Knights exposed. Makar, a central figure for the organization, offered his comments as the team pursues its clear goal: championship success in the upcoming season.

Werenski ties Blue Jackets’ future to contending2 sources

Zach Werenski has made his preference clear: he wants to remain a Columbus Blue Jacket long term. With two seasons still on his current contract, Werenski has reiterated more than once that his desire to stay is tied to the franchise’s competitive direction – specifically, reaching the playoffs. The Blue Jackets’ front office has reinforced that same objective through both public statements and the contracts it has handed out. For Werenski, the alignment between his own ambitions and the organization’s stated goal of playoff contention is what anchors his commitment to Columbus.

Dylan Larkin trade request clouds Red Wings camp 31 days out2 sources

Dylan Larkin’s trade request, issued in early June 2026, has increased the likelihood that he remains with the Detroit Red Wings and reports to training camp, now 31 days out at Little Caesars Arena. The controversial request has drawn a call for major leadership change from at least one former Stanley Cup winner if Larkin stays; no specific alternative structure has been put forward. Detroit will bypass Traverse City, Northwest Michigan, this year, the third time since 1997 they have skipped the site, as the unsettled situation with Larkin continues to hang over the club heading into camp.

Carolina trades for Sardarian’s signing rights, shedding an odd contractual situation2 sources

The Carolina Hurricanes acquired forward Stiven Sardarian from the Buffalo Sabres for future considerations, according to reports from Pro Hockey Rumors and Sportsnet on August 17, 2026. Sardarian, a 23-year-old winger from St. Petersburg, Russia, played collegiate hockey at Bowling Green and Michigan Tech, where he recorded 44 points – 12 goals and 32 assists – in 37 games at Michigan Technological University. He led the Central Collegiate Hockey Association in both points and assists, earning 2026 CCHA Forward of the Year honors and a first all-star team selection. Buffalo had selected him 88th overall in the third round of the 2021 NHL Draft.

Bruins land at No. 19 in NHL power rankings after sweeping offseason overhaul2 sources

TheHockeyNews.com ranks the Boston Bruins No. 19 in its NHL off-season power rankings, in a piece authored by Adam Proteau and updated August 17, 2026. General Manager Don Sweeney oversaw significant roster turnover, acquiring J.J. Peterka, Ivan Ivan, Connor Clifton, Jiri Patera, Brendan Gaunce, and Will Borgen. Peterka, a left wing who recorded 25 goals and 47 points across 82 games for the Utah Mammoth last season, is now on his third team in three years. Borgen and Clifton, the latter returning for a second stint, replace defenseman Andrew Peeke.

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