The NHL landscape was shifted on its axis last night with a massive slate of games, but the headlines buzzing this morning on January 23, 2026, go far beyond the scoreboard. From a historic night in Nashville to an emotional homecoming in Toronto, the intensity is ramping up as we inch closer to the Olympic break and the trade deadline.
Stamkos Still Has It
If anyone doubted Steven Stamkos’ ability to take over a game, they were silenced last night. The Predators captain netted his 16th career hat trick, orchestrating a stunning three-goal comeback to defeat the Ottawa Senators 5-3. It was a vintage performance that reminded the league that Nashville is not just a playoff contender but a threat to go deep. Stamkos’ heroics overshadowed a gritty effort from the Senators, who collapsed late in the third period.
Marner’s Return to The Six
All eyes are on Scotiabank Arena tonight as Mitch Marner makes his first return to Toronto since joining the Vegas Golden Knights. The narrative writes itself: the former Maple Leafs star, now donning gold and black, facing off against Auston Matthews and his old squad. Expect a mix of tribute videos, applause, and perhaps a few bittersweet jeers from the faithful. It’s arguably the most anticipated regular-season game of the 2025-26 campaign.
Sabres Lock Up Doan
In Buffalo, the Sabres made a clear commitment to their future, signing Josh Doan to a massive 7-year, $48.65 million contract extension. Doan has become an integral part of a young, surging Sabres core that took down the Canadiens 4-2 last night. The deal ensures that the Sabres’ forward depth remains lethal for the long haul.
Rumor Mill: Shane Wright on the Block?
The trade chatter is reaching a fever pitch. Reports out of Seattle suggest the Kraken are fielding calls on Shane Wright. The former 4th overall pick has struggled to find consistent top-six minutes, and with Seattle desperate for immediate scoring help to secure a playoff spot, Wright could be the blockbuster casualty of the season. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly “all-in” on acquiring a high-end winger, with Dallas’ Jason Robertson being whispered as a primary (albeit expensive) target.
NHL Scores & Notes: January 22, 2026
Nashville Predators 5, Ottawa Senators 3
- The Story: Steven Stamkos recorded his 16th career hat trick, fueling a massive comeback after the Preds fell behind by three early.
- Key Stat: Nashville scored 4 unanswered goals in the 3rd period.
- Fantasy Note: Juuse Saros settled down after a rocky start to secure the win.
Buffalo Sabres 4, Montreal Canadiens 2
- The Story: Fresh off his new contract, Josh Doan looked energized, but it was Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen who stole the show with 32 saves.
- Key Stat: The Sabres have now won 4 of their last 6 games.
- Fantasy Note: Jason Zucker continues his hot streak with another goal.
Chicago Blackhawks 4, Carolina Hurricanes 3 (SO)
- The Story: Oliver Moore played hero, scoring the shootout winner to cap off a thrilling back-and-forth tilt.
- Highlight: Ilya Mikheyev scored a spectacular shorthanded goal to open the scoring.
- Fantasy Note: Connor Bedard added a shootout goal and looked dangerous all night.
Columbus Blue Jackets 1, Dallas Stars 0
- The Story: A goalie duel for the ages. Jet Greaves was perfect, stopping all 28 shots for the shutout.
- Key Stat: Zach Werenski scored the lone goal of the game in the first period.
- Fantasy Note: Bench your Stars skaters; Greaves is becoming a must-add in deeper leagues.
Boston Bruins 4, Vegas Golden Knights 3
- The Story: The Bruins offense exploded, scoring three goals in a span of just 54 seconds in the first period to stun Vegas.
- Key Stat: David Pastrnak had two assists during the scoring blitz.
- Fantasy Note: Despite the loss, Jack Eichel extended his point streak to 8 games.
Florida Panthers 2, Winnipeg Jets 1 (SO)
- The Story: A playoff-style grind. Sam Reinhart netted the shootout winner after a tight defensive battle.
- Key Stat: Connor Hellebuyck made 34 saves in the loss.
- Fantasy Note: Sam Bennett’s physical play and goal make him a banger-league unicorn.
Minnesota Wild 4, Detroit Red Wings 3 (OT)
- The Story: The chemistry between Kirill Kaprizov and Quinn Hughes is undeniable; they combined for the OT winner.
- Key Stat: Hughes now has 42 assists on the season.
- Fantasy Note: Lucas Raymond scored twice for Detroit—he is heating up.
Pittsburgh Penguins 6, Edmonton Oilers 2
- The Story: The Penguins turned back the clock, crushing the Oilers. Crosby and Malkin both found the back of the net.
- Key Stat: Pittsburgh scored 3 goals in 37 seconds to blow the game open.
- Fantasy Note: Fade the Oilers’ goaltending until they sort out their defensive woes.
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