The puck has dropped on the 2024-25 NHL season, with excitement in the air as young stars light up the highlight reels and new teams find their footing in fresh markets. The anticipation of international competition and the quest for the Stanley Cup create a sense of thrill and possibility for the months ahead.
Mailbag questions poured in this week, covering a wide range of topics as fans engaged and shared their curiosities. The pulse of the hockey world beats with anticipation and intrigue.
In a recent query to the NHL, it was confirmed that the Blackhawks are still eligible to win another draft lottery within the next three years. The league’s draft lottery rules were adjusted in 2021 to prevent any team from winning more than twice in a five-year span, with a “win” being defined as a team moving up to select the No. 1 or No. 2 overall pick. The Blackhawks’ drafting of Connor Bedard in 2023 was considered a win, as they finished 30th overall, but their No. 2 pick for Artyom Levshunov was not considered a win, as they finished with the second-worst record. This sets the stage for the possibility of a team drafting first for five consecutive years by consistently finishing at the bottom of the standings.
The Detroit Red Wings, once a perennial playoff contender, have undergone an eight-year postseason drought as they rebuild their roster with young prospects. The organization is balancing the development of their youth with the need for veteran leadership to instill a winning culture. Patience wears thin as players wait for their opportunity to shine on the ice.
A question arises about the speed of the Coyotes’ relocation, contrasting with the lengthy process of the Senators’ sale. The Coyotes’ move to Utah was expedited due to issues with their arena and ownership situation, culminating in the swift transition to the Smiths as new owners. In contrast, the Senators’ sale involved multiple buyers and a thorough vetting process before the Andlauer group secured the team in June 2023.
When it comes to the future of New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin, the odds of him hitting free agency appear slim. Negotiations for an extension are ongoing, with the Rangers aiming to make him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history. While a deal has not been finalized, both sides are motivated to reach an agreement that keeps Shesterkin in New York for the long term.
Finally, the process of player fines by the league involves deductions directly from the player’s paycheck, with the funds going to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. This fund supports former players and their families in times of need, ensuring that players who face disciplinary actions contribute to a greater cause within the hockey community.
As the season unfolds and storylines develop, the hockey world is captivated by the drama and excitement of the NHL. Stay tuned for more updates, news, and insights as the journey to the Stanley Cup unfolds.