The post-trade deadline dust has settled, but the drama is just heating up across the hockey world. With exactly one month left in the 2025-26 regular season, the playoff picture is experiencing a massive shakeup. Teams that missed out last season, like the surging Buffalo Sabres and the upstart Utah Mammoth, are battling fiercely for a spot in the post-season. If you are looking for your daily dose of NHL News, you are in the right place.
Breaking NHL News: Knies Trade Rumors & Draisaitl Injury Concerns
The biggest story dominating the NHL News cycle this morning revolves around Toronto Maple Leafs power forward Matthew Knies. Despite the trade deadline having passed, speculation is already swirling regarding his future. Pundits suggest that if the Leafs want to make a monumental off-season splash without moving Auston Matthews or William Nylander, trading Knies might be their most valuable chip. Rumored destinations include the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Utah Mammoth, who all boast the young assets Toronto would demand.
Meanwhile, in Edmonton, the Oilers secured an important win over the weekend but are holding their breath regarding Leon Draisaitl. The superstar center suffered a scary injury after a heavy hit from Ozzy Wiesblatt, leaving fans waiting anxiously for medical updates as the playoffs approach.
Out East, the Washington Capitals are fully leaning into a youth movement to prepare for life after Alex Ovechkin. Following the shocking trade of defensive cornerstone John Carlson to the Anaheim Ducks, Washington is looking toward names like Aliaksei Protas and rookie blue-liners to carry the torch for the next decade.
Full NHL Game Scores & Notes From March 16, 2026
Last night featured some incredible matchups with massive playoff implications. Here is your complete breakdown of the scores, formatted for fans on the go.
Notes: Paul Cotter netted the OT winner for New Jersey. David Pastrnak had a massive 2-goal night for Boston in the loss.
Notes: Alex Laferriere scored twice on the power play and Quinton Byfield notched two assists as the Kings dominated MSG.
Notes: Utah’s Vitek Vanecek made 30 saves, and Jack McBain scored a crucial shorthanded goal to push the Mammoth closer to a playoff spot.
Notes: Evgeni Malkin exploded for two goals and an assist as the Penguins routed the Avs. Nathan MacKinnon scored his 45th in the loss.
Finding the Latest NHL News
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The post Latest NHL News & Scores (March 17, 2026) | Trade Rumors & Playoff Race appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
