Rangers Daily: Last preseason game; Sidney Crosby ready for 21st season

The Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly looking to trade Lukas Reichel, their former first-round pick from the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, after a disappointing season where he scored only eight goals and 22 points in 70 games. This move is significant as it reflects the team's desire to reshape its roster ahead of the 2025-26 season, indicating a shift in strategy and possibly a response to Reichel's underperformance.

The New York Rangers are gearing up for an exciting 2025-26 season at Madison Square Garden, led by coach Mike Sullivan, who brings a wealth of championship experience. This is significant as the Rangers aim to build on their past successes and energize their fan base, making the Garden a thrilling venue for hockey once again.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a significant move by waiving their fourth-highest-paid defenseman, reflecting a troubling trend in the team's performance over recent seasons. After a disappointing exit from the 2021-22 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Penguins have seen their points decline steadily, raising concerns about the team's future. This decision by GM Kyle Dubas signals a potential shift in strategy as the organization seeks to rebuild and improve its standing in the league.

The Minnesota Wild have secured their goaltender Filip Gustavsson with a five-year contract extension worth $6.8 million annually. This move follows the team's recent efforts to strengthen their offense, showcasing a commitment to both ends of the ice. Keeping Gustavsson, who played 58 games last season, is crucial for the Wild as they aim for a successful season ahead. His performance will be key in maintaining a strong defense, which is essential for the team's playoff aspirations.

The Utah Mammoth, despite narrowly missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs in their inaugural season in Salt Lake City, have already captured the hearts of local fans. Their transition from the Coyotes has been marked by a strong community presence and exciting gameplay, setting the stage for a promising future. This matters because it highlights the potential for growth and engagement in the NHL, especially in new markets.

The New York Rangers are set to play their final preseason game against the Boston Bruins, showcasing their lineups and storylines as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season. This matchup is significant as it allows the team to finalize their roster and build chemistry before the regular season begins, making it a crucial moment for both players and fans.

Gavin McKenna made a remarkable debut in NCAA Division 1 ice hockey, scoring two assists in the first period for the Penn State Nittany Lions against Arizona State. As the NHL's top draft prospect, his performance not only highlights his talent but also sets a promising tone for the season ahead. Fans and scouts alike will be watching closely to see how he continues to develop.

The Pittsburgh Penguins wrapped up a successful pre-season by defeating the Sabres in an exciting overtime match. Fans have plenty to be optimistic about as the team showcased resilience and skill, making it hard to leave the pre-season feeling anything but positive. This victory not only boosts team morale but also sets a promising tone for the upcoming NHL season.

As the Vancouver Canucks gear up for their final pre-season game against the Edmonton Oilers on October 3, fans are excited to see four key players to watch. This matchup is significant as it wraps up the pre-season and sets the stage for the regular NHL season. Keeping an eye on these players could provide insights into the team's potential for the upcoming year.

The Buffalo Sabres have parted ways with Adam Mair, their director of player development and former NHL player, following his recent arrest for alleged drunk driving in Rochester, N.Y. This decision highlights the team's commitment to maintaining a professional environment and addressing off-ice issues seriously. Mair's departure raises questions about the impact on the team's development strategy and the future direction of their player management.

The Florida Panthers are aiming to make history by winning their third consecutive Stanley Cup championship in the 2025-26 season. Having already secured back-to-back titles against the Edmonton Oilers, the Panthers are positioning themselves as a formidable force in the NHL. This ambition not only highlights their competitive spirit but also adds excitement for fans and the league, as they strive to join the ranks of elite teams with such a remarkable achievement.

ESPN has signed P.K. Subban to a multiyear contract extension, solidifying his role as a prominent figure in sports media since the NHL's return to the network. This move not only highlights Subban's popularity and expertise but also reinforces ESPN's commitment to delivering top-notch hockey coverage. Fans can look forward to more engaging content featuring Subban, who has become a beloved personality in the sports world.

In a thrilling moment during ESPN's College GameDay in Tuscaloosa, Kirk Herbstreit showcased his impressive throwing skills, helping student Gabby Mathis win $300,000 after a perfect throw in a kicking contest. This event not only highlighted the excitement of college football but also demonstrated the impact of generosity, as Pat McAfee's contest turned a missed field goal into a life-changing opportunity for Mathis, a senior chemical engineering student. It's a reminder of how sports can create unforgettable moments and change lives.

The Chicago Cubs faced a tough start in the 2025 NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers, largely due to manager Craig Counsell's controversial decision to start Matthew Boyd on short rest. This choice, made after a successful Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres, quickly drew criticism and became a hot topic online. The situation highlights the pressure managers face in high-stakes games and raises questions about player management strategies in the postseason.

The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a tough situation as they head into Week 5 with injuries to key tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer. Bowers has been dealing with a knee issue since Week 1 and missed practice, raising concerns about his availability. This situation is critical for the Raiders as they rely heavily on their tight ends for both blocking and receiving, making their performance vital for the team's success.

There's speculation about whether Brock Bowers will play for the Raiders in Week 5. Fans are eager to see if he will take the field, as his performance could significantly impact the team's dynamics. Keeping an eye on his status is crucial for both supporters and analysts.

In an exciting matchup, Bryce Underwood and Justice Haynes propelled No. 20 Michigan to a solid 24-10 victory over Wisconsin. Underwood's impressive 29-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter was a turning point, allowing Michigan to gain momentum and secure the win. This victory is significant as it improves Michigan's standing in the Big Ten, while Wisconsin struggles with an 0-2 record in conference play, raising concerns about their season.

In a thrilling finish, Baylor secured a 35-34 victory over Kansas State thanks to Connor Hawkins' impressive 53-yard field goal with just 31 seconds left on the clock. This win was made possible by Jacob Redding's remarkable 66-yard interception return for a touchdown, showcasing the team's resilience as they rallied twice in the fourth quarter. The game highlights Baylor's fighting spirit and adds excitement to their season, especially after overcoming a late deficit.