Latest news with #CupFinal
Miami Herald
a day ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
The Panthers are nearly $4 million over the salary cap. How they can remedy that
The Florida Panthers, rightfully so, are enjoying their summer right now. The back-to-back Stanley Cup champions handled most of their business already. President of hockey operations and general manager Bill Zito managed to re-sign the trio of defenseman Aaron Ekblad plus forwards Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand. Forwards Tomas Nosek and Mackie Samoskevich got new deals, too. Plus the Panthers got their backup goaltender (Daniil Tarasov) and depth defenseman (Jeff Petry) to round out the roster. So until training camp begins in September, the team is going to revel in its success just as it did last summer. But before the 2025-26 season begins on Oct. 7 and the Panthers attempt for a rare three-peat, some business will need to be tended to. Specifically, the Panthers will have to address their salary cap situation. According to PuckPedia, the Panthers' are currently carrying a $99.225 million cap hit for next season when factoring in their top 23 contracts — 14 forwards, seven defensemen and two goalies. That's $3.725 million over the league's salary cap of $95.5 million for the season. Florida is one of three teams that is currently over the cap, along with the Vegas Golden Knights ($7.64 million over) and the Montreal Canadiens ($4.52 million over). At the moment, Florida is able to be over the cap. The league allows teams to be up to 10% above the cap — this offseason, that's $9.55 million — during the offseason, but teams have to be cap compliant by the start of the regular season. How will the Panthers handle the cap crunch? Only two options seem truly feasible at this point. Option 1: Matthew Tkachuk opens the season on long-term injured reserve, during which time his $9.5 million cap hit would not count toward the Panthers' salary cap. The star winger played through the entire Stanley Cup playoffs with a tadductor muscle that had torn all the way off the bone in addition to a sports hernia, both of which were sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. Tkachuk, who got married to his fiancee Ellie over the weekend, said shortly after the Cup Final that there's a 50-50 chance he would need surgery this offseason. He has not yet had the surgery. Should that happen, it's likely Tkachuk would not be ready to start the season and they could use LTIR to provide temporary salary cap relief. Players on LTIR must miss a minimum of 10 games or 24 days of the season, whichever is longer. Option 2: The Panthers can trade players under contract for prospects or draft picks to offload salary. Looking at the roster, the only players making significant enough money that don't have a no-movement clause in his contract that would be logical trade candidates are forwards Evan Rodrigues and one of either Jesper Boqvist or Dmitry Kulikov. Rodrigues has a cap hit of $3 million each of the next two seasons, Boqvist $1.5 million each of the next two seasons, and Kulikov $1.15 million each of the next three seasons. Rodrigues has played a key role for Florida the past two seasons but doesn't necessarily have a defined role. He is the player coach Paul Maurice has moved up and down the lineup to fill whatever gap is needed, a Swiss Army Knife of sorts. Boqvist is in a similar spot. He primarily played in the bottom six during the season but showed he can rise to the occasion in the playoffs when needed, filling in on the top line twice when Rodrigues and Sam Reinhart each missed time with injury. Kulikov has been a standout on Florida's third defense pairing. The other players on the roster without no movement clauses, in descending order of cap hit for next season, are center Anton Lundell ($5 million), forward Eetu Luostarinen ($3 million), defenseman Niko Mikkola ($2.5 million), forward A.J. Greer ($850,000), defenseman Uvis Balinskis ($850,000), forward Jonah Gadjovich ($775,000), Petry ($775,000), Nosek ($775,000) and Samoskevich ($775,000). Lundell, Luostarinen and Mikkola are seen as part of Florida's core, and the six making less than $1 million apiece wouldn't offset the cap enough to justify moving them. The possibility of trading Rodrigues and Boqvist — or making any other deals of that sort — likely won't become serious conversations until the Panthers have clarity on Tkachuk's status. If Tkachuk starts on LTIR, then Florida can carry both Rodrigues and Boqvist and have $5.775 million to work with until Tkachuk returns. However, should both Rodrigues and Boqvist be dealt, that would put Florida exactly $775,000 under the cap — just enough money to add a player making the league minimum to the roster and be cap compliant.
Belfast Telegraph
4 days ago
- Sport
- Belfast Telegraph
Nikolai Smith reveals what the key behind Inst's rise from bottom half to treble chasers has been
That's a far cry from the struggles of 2024, and skipper Nikolai Smith has hailed the influence of their overseas professional in the upturn in their fortunes. 'It's all gone really, really well so far with so many guys in great form,' said Smith. 'We have bounced back really well from last season when we were in the bottom half of the League. 'Shane Dadswell returning as our overseas professional has made a huge difference as he is fantastic with the players. 'He's so positive and having him in the team is massive. Not only his contributions with bat and ball but the way he interacts with everyone has just given the club a massive boost. 'He adds so much and lifts everyone, making them feel two feet taller, giving them tremendous belief in their ability. 'Cade Carmichael, Neil Rock and Cian Robertson are having excellent seasons, as well as others all chipping in. Everyone has stepped up and are all doing really well for us. 'We're helped too by the fact we have such a strong second XI, and they are pushing for places and putting the first-team guys under pressure, which is helping everyone be at their best and perform. 'The key to our success this year so far has been individuals focusing on their own job and doing it well.' Despite that strong start, they haven't won anything yet, and have some huge matches coming up against Waringstown both in the Premiership and Cup Final, as well as a T20 Final next week against Cliftonville Academy. 'There are some really good teams in the League, so there are no games where you think that this will be easy. You have to be at your best every week. We are really looking forward to the Cup Finals,' continued Smith. 'They are so tough to win, and the fact that we are mostly playing away from home in the remaining matches makes it a little bit tougher, but we are in a great position. 'It won't just be Waringstown that we have to perform against as you have to beat good teams to win things, and we will be doing our best just to do that.' Instonians passed two massive tests of their trophy credentials in July with back-to-back wins over rivals Lisburn – victories that have given the Shaw's Bridge side massive belief. 'While the toss in those matches was obviously important, the guys were really up for it and played some tremendous cricket against a very good team,' he added. 'The bowling unit was superb and the batters all did their jobs. We weren't expecting to chase 180 both days, so to win comfortably just instils more confidence that we can beat any team on our day.' Smith has actually played international cricket – not for his native South Africa or indeed Ireland where he has lived for the past 12 years with his local wife and two young children, but for Italy, where his mother hails from. It's been a huge week for the Azzurri, who beat Scotland to qualify for next year's T20 World Cup. Smith played 10 times for Italy, making his debut in 2019, and scoring a century against Kenya in a 50-overs game. Was there any chance of a return for the 32-year-old all-rounder? 'It's been a fantastic achievement for them to qualify as these tournaments are always notoriously tough. It's so good for Italian cricket as a whole and will allow them to really grow the game,' he said. 'In terms of myself, I would love to play for them again, but I'm realistic enough to know they have some really fantastic players now and I didn't really perform that well when I was there. 'I'm certainly still available for selection, but if it did happen, I would have to score runs and try and nail down a spot. 'Not being in the team is down to me not really taking the chances when I had them.' Instonians are away at CIYMS in the first match of the top-six split, while Lisburn entertain Muckamore and North Down host Waringstown. In the relegation battle, Woodvale take on CSNI, while Cliftonville Academy face Templepatrick. In the North West, Newbuildings and Brigade meet twice, firstly in the League and on Sunday in their rearranged Faughan Valley Cup Final. Leaders Donemana are at struggling Strabane, Bready host bottom side Eglinton and Ardmore meet Coleraine.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Must-watch games on the 2025–26 NHL schedule: Every major rivalry, revenge game, and global event
(Lynne Sladky/AP) Circle your calendars, hockey fans, the NHL is coming in hot this season. The league just dropped the full 2025–26 schedule and it's packed with drama, revenge games, international flair, and outdoor ice battles in the unlikeliest places (hello, Miami). From Marner's Toronto return to Olympic breaks and beer league beefs, the upcoming season is set to deliver fireworks from puck drop to playoffs. Here's what to know about the 2025–26 NHL schedule: Opening night, Olympics pause, and emotional returns Mark October 7 as the official kickoff. The Panthers will raise their Stanley Cup banner at home while facing Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks, talk about a statement opener. But that's just one-third of the tripleheader. Elsewhere, it's Rangers vs. Penguins (Sid vs. Shesterkin), and Avalanche vs. Kings in a heavyweight West Coast clash. ESPN and Sportsnet will be airing it all, so nobody's missing out. Panthers vs. Oilers Stanley Cup rematch headlines two fire-loaded dates Get ready for bad blood: Florida and Edmonton will renew their Cup Final feud twice, first on November 22 and again on March 19. These rematches won't just be about revenge. They could also be playoff previews if both teams keep their rosters loaded and legs fresh. Mitch Marner 's Toronto return as a Golden Knight will be emotional chaos Circle January 23 in gold and blue. Mitch Marner will return to Toronto in a Vegas Golden Knights jersey and Scotiabank Arena is guaranteed to be split between cheers and betrayal. Fans have already dubbed this the 'Marner Bowl,' and depending on how the Leafs' season is going, it could get spicy. The NHL is going global (and tropical): Sweden games, Miami Winter Classic, and Tampa's Stadium Series November 14 and 16 will see Pittsburgh and Nashville face off in Stockholm, Sweden as part of the NHL's Global Series. It's another step in the league's push to tap into European fandom. But that's not even the wildest venue this year. On January 2, the Panthers will host the Rangers outdoors at Miami's LoanDepot Park for the Winter Classic — yes, in Florida. Then, on February 1, it's Bruins vs. Lightning at Raymond James Stadium for the Stadium Series. Imagine palm trees, fireworks, and slapshots under the stars. Olympics break confirmed: NHL stars heading to Milan in February The NHL will pause from February 6 to 24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina. It's the league's first full Olympic return since 2014, and fans can't wait to see players like McDavid, Bedard, and Makar rock national jerseys. Emotional homecomings, revenge games, and chaos await this year Jonathan Toews returns to face the Blackhawks on January 19. Nikolaj Ehlers faces the Jets in Winnipeg on November 21 as a Hurricane. Trade deadline madness hits on March 6, so expect the hockey world to explode that week. This NHL season is built for drama, legacy, and global flair The 2025–26 NHL season feels like it was crafted in a drama lab. From emotional returns to international matchups, outdoor games in tropical cities, and Olympic glory, it has everything hockey fans love. Whether you're into gritty rivalries, underdog stories, or just here for the memes, this schedule guarantees something spicy every week. Also read - Heartwarming: Sidney Crosby made one quiet phone call and saved his former equipment manager's career Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Are Florida Panthers unlucky when it comes to NHL schedules? Stanley Cup-winning team gets confusing fixture yet again
Florida Panthers (via Getty Images) Two Stanley Cup rings in a row didn't give the Florida Panthers too much affection from the NHL 's schedule geniuses. The complete 2025–26 NHL schedule was released Wednesday, and again, the Florida Panthers' road to the playoffs appears to have been plotted by someone who has never unfolded a map—or seen a Cup Final. And that's only the start of the strangeness. Florida Panthers to face 13 back-to-backs—and not the good kind The Florida Panthers must make it through 13 consecutive sets this year. That's only one fewer than the previous year's count, which was boosted by the overseas journey to Finland. The Florida Panthers will play three home-based back-to-backs in December alone, a set of games that might exhaust even a championship-stacked roster. Things start to go haywire in early 2026. The Florida Panthers' most extensive road swing of the year comes in January: six games of going through Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Buffalo, Carolina, and Washington. And then they're home for one game before taking off again to play Winnipeg, Minnesota, and Chicago. Reacting to the Panthers 2025-26 schedule release March mayhem and the Olympic sandwich March won't be more merciful. Florida has 10 of its 15 contests on the road during that month, with three additional back-to-backs thrown in for good measure. And don't count on a clean slate for the 2026 Winter Games in Italy. The Panthers will be forced to play a back-to-back both before and after the league break. There's no welcome mat quite like a condensed schedule and global jet lag. A slight silver lining for Florida Panthers? Only eight of Florida's 13 back-to-backs come after January 1. Last year, that number was 10. Despite winning two straight Cups and cementing their status as the NHL's gold standard, the Panthers are once again stuck with a disjointed, exhausting calendar. Also read: Brad Marchand trade to Florida Panthers leads to Stanley Cup win and emotional return to Boston Bruins Whether it's a thank-you present or a scheduling error, one thing's for certain—Florida's struggle to win a third Cup will be just as much about making it through the schedule as it will about outplaying competition. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Can Jeff Skinner revive his old magic in the San Jose Sharks, or is this just a short stop on his journey?
Jeff Skinner looks to regain form while guiding Sharks' youth (Getty Images) After a difficult season in Edmonton, Jeff Skinner is embracing a fresh start with the San Jose Sharks—one that may be short-term on paper but could prove transformative for both sides. The 33-year-old forward inked a one-year, $3 million deal with the Sharks, a decision driven by the promise of opportunity and a desire to prove he still belongs among the NHL 's top contributors. Is Jeff Skinner a stopgap or savior? Sharks place their bet as rebuild gains momentum 'As a player, you look for someone that's sort of interested in you or willing to give you an opportunity,' Skinner said, expressing his excitement to join a young, developing team eager for guidance and leadership. Unlike last year with the powerhouse Oilers—where Skinner was surrounded by elite talent like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl but received limited ice time—San Jose presents a chance for him to play meaningful minutes. He's expected to slot into a top-six role and contribute regularly on the power play, something he sorely lacked in Edmonton. 'Coming to a team where they're giving you some opportunity as a player, I think that's what you look for,' he explained. 'Then obviously as the player, you have to take advantage of it.' Despite his impressive resume—373 career goals and six 30-goal seasons—Skinner's 2023–24 campaign was underwhelming. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo In 72 games, he tallied just 16 goals and 29 points while averaging 13 minutes of ice time. He managed only two points in five playoff games, including the Cup Final, which Edmonton lost in six games. It was a bitter taste after finally making his postseason debut. 'Having gone through the season I went through last year, I think in terms of offensive production, it wasn't up to my standard,' Skinner admitted. 'For sure, I'd like to improve on that production and help the team in any way I can.' The Sharks finished last in the NHL last season, scoring a league-low 2.54 goals per game. With promising young stars like Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and William Eklund anchoring the rebuild, Skinner's experience could be invaluable. 'It's always fun to play with great players and that's what those guys are,' said Skinner. 'I'm really excited to join the team.' Sharks GM Mike Grier echoed that optimism, noting, 'These players were brought in to help our group grow and make us a better team.' Though Grier isn't ruling out trade possibilities should the team struggle again, the intention is to make this a season of progress—not a repeat of past fire sales. Skinner, whose contract includes a no-trade clause until January 30, 2026, is one of ten Sharks set to become unrestricted free agents next summer. Whether he stays beyond this season remains to be seen. But for now, the veteran winger is laser-focused on contributing, mentoring, and reigniting his scoring touch in a city ready to turn the page. 'I, for sure, think that I have a lot left in the tank,' Skinner affirmed. 'There's some extra juice and energy that comes with a new challenge. I'm real excited to get going.' Also Read: Mario Lemieux-led group eyeing Penguins purchase, reports say they are 'very interested' For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
