The NHL landscape is shifting rapidly as we close out 2025. With the Winter Classic just days away and the trade market heating up earlier than expected, today’s NHL news is packed with storylines that will define the second half of the season.
Quinn Hughes Trade Shockwaves & Winter Classic Hype
The hockey world is still reeling from the blockbuster trade earlier this month that sent Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. While the initial shock has worn off, the on-ice impact is undeniable. The Wild dominated the Golden Knights 5-2 last night, proving they are now the team to beat in the West. Meanwhile, Rick Tocchet returns to Vancouver tonight—not as a hero, but as the bench boss for the Philadelphia Flyers, looking to exploit a Canucks team still finding its identity post-trade.
In the East, the Buffalo Sabres are the hottest team in hockey. They secured their 9th straight win last night against the Blues, a feat that has the city of Buffalo dreaming of a deep playoff run for the first time in over a decade.
Looking ahead, all eyes are on Miami for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic. The Florida Panthers defeated the Capitals 5-3 in their final tune-up, with Brad Marchand continuing his tear since his 1,000th point ceremony. The renderings of loanDepot park look spectacular, and the Panthers seem ready to defend their turf against the Rangers on January 2nd.
NHL Scores & Highlights: December 29, 2025
Here is a recap of the action from around the league last night:
- Buffalo Sabres 4, St. Louis Blues 2
- Note: The Sabres extend their winning streak to 9 games.
- Minnesota Wild 5, Vegas Golden Knights 2
- Note: The Wild offense explodes; Hughes logs 26 minutes.
- Florida Panthers 5, Washington Capitals 3
- Note: Sam Reinhart nets his 20th goal; Marchand stays hot.
- Nashville Predators 4, Utah Mammoth 3
- Note: Steven Stamkos scores career goal No. 599.
- Colorado Avalanche 5, Los Angeles Kings 2
- Note: MacKinnon and the Avs extend home point streak to 18 games.
- Carolina Hurricanes 3, New York Rangers 2 (OT)
- Note: Jackson Blake scores the OT winner.
- Edmonton Oilers 3, Winnipeg Jets 1
- Note: Pickard stands tall with 41 saves.
- Columbus Blue Jackets 4, Ottawa Senators 1
- Note: Blue Jackets overcome travel issues to dominate on the road.
- Vancouver Canucks 3, Seattle Kraken 2 (SO)
- Note: Lankinen makes 37 saves; Ohgren scores shootout winner.
- Calgary Flames 2, Boston Bruins 1 (OT)
- Note: Connor Zary plays hero in overtime.
- San Jose Sharks 5, Anaheim Ducks 4
- Note: Macklin Celebrini notches 3 points in sophomore showcase.
Find the Latest NHL Trade Rumors & News
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