Good morning, my name is Andrew Fantucchio. It’s Friday, December 29, and here’s what’s happening around the NHL today.
Islanders Take Out Frustrations:
The emotion inside UBS Arena on Wednesday night for the New York Islanders was disappointing, as the Pittsburgh Penguins abused them to the tune of a 7-0 loss.
On Thursday morning, the Islanders’ energy at practice shifted to frustration as a couple of sticks were swung into the boards, and a few players spouted words that cannot be repeated here.
It was intense but also necessary.
The Islanders will need that intensity as they face the Washington Capitals tonight.
Caps Officially Sign Bear:
When the Capitals take the ice against the Islanders later tonight, they’ll have a new player joining them.
Ethan Bear has been working out with Washington for the last few weeks and officially signed with the team yesterday on a two-year $4.125 million contract.
Bear, 26, has been an unrestricted free agent since being let go by the Vancouver Canucks at the end of last season.
In 251 career NHL games, the defenseman has 63 points with 16 goals.
Nick Ritchie Goes On Rampage:
Former first-round draft pick Nick Ritchie is playing over in Finland this year and has brought the chippy style of play he became known for in the NHL with him.
Playing for the Oulun Kärpät, the once Calgary Flame locked up with Marcus Nurmi of TPS Turku in a battle along the boards and pushed him down to the ice by the back of his head. Ritchie didn’t cease once Nurmi was already down on all fours. He proceeded to punch Nurmi while he was down.
Yesterday’s Scoreboard:
Hurricanes: 5, Canadiens: 3
Flyers: 4, Canucks: 1
Golden Knights: 3, Kings: 2
Oilers: 5, Sharks: 0
Today’s Schedule:
All Times EST
Washington Capitals vs. New York Islanders, 7:30 p.m.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Columbus Blue Jackets, 7 p.m.
Nashville Predators vs. Detroit Red Wings, 7 p.m.
New York Rangers vs. Florida Panthers, 7 p.m.
New Jersey Devils vs. Ottawa Senators, 7 p.m.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Dallas Stars, 8 p.m.
Colorado Avalanche vs. St. Louis Blues, 8 p.m.
Arizona Coyotes vs. Anaheim Ducks. 10 p.m.
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Seattle Kraken, 10 p.m.
More must-reads: