The Latest Breaking News on NHL

Michael Bunting wasn’t your average NHL rookie in 2021-22 with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

PITTSBURGH — You know the names.

The Hawks used their fifth-round draft pick on Marcel, who is 6-4 and 243 pounds, a surprisingly decent skater and a hilarious personality. And, yes, there’s a story behind his name.

The Paisley hockey stalwart sadly passed away last week.

Kyle Dubas had a history of failing with his goaltenders during his otherwise solid five-year run as Toronto Maple Leafs general manager.

TAMPA, Fla. — Remember this:

Gajan, whom the Hawks drafted 35th last week, was the goaltender victimized by Bedard in his famous world-juniors highlight. But Gajan’s overall performance for Slovakia still caught the Hawks’ eye in a good way.

The drought has a good chance to come to an end this season.

As Connor Bedard’s most likely linemate, Hall will receive lots of playing time and offensive chances in Chicago, in contrast to last season in Boston. That expanded opportunity excites him.

MINNEAPOLIS — Meredith Lang founded a program a few years ago that introduced the sport of hockey to girls of color in Minnesota. She later started a second program that provided more intensive hockey training to girls who are underrepresented in the game.

LOS ANGELES — Squeezed by salary cap limitations but in need of trustworthy goaltending, the Kings signed veteran Cam Talbot to a one-year, $1 million contract soon after the NHL's free agency period began Saturday. Talbot's contract includes games-played bonuses potentially worth $1 million.