Here’s how it all played out, plus what to look out for between now and the Milano Cortina Olympics.

The spiciest series in sports just grew hotter.

Last week, the PWHL announced the return of the Takeover Tour — which brings PWHL games to other markets — for a third season. And the next edition is bigger and better: The league will host 16 neutral-site games and visit seven new cities while returning to multiple stops from last year.

Buckle up, because the Team Canada vs. Team USA Rivalry Series is so back, with the sixth edition of the annual exhibition matchup beginning tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET — it’s a thrilling dose of women’s hockey before the PWHL season starts on November 21st. What’s more, the series marks the final time the two powerhouses will meet before the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, adding extra spice to this already-heated showdown.

In news that’s equal parts infuriating and predictable, Carter Hart — one of five former NHL players at the center of the infamous Hockey Canada sexual assault case — is on the cusp of returning to the league, signing a professional tryout agreement with the Vegas Golden Knights yesterday.

The 2025–26 NHL season starts in earnest tonight, so today’s newsletter is all about the season setup, the teams to watch, and the major storylines. Whether you’re a hockey #BookToker (IYKYK), just getting into the sport, or a puck aficionado, this special edition has something for you. As they say in hockey, let’s do that hockey.

The five former Canadian World Junior hockey players (all of whom went on to play in the NHL) on trial for sexual assault were found not guilty yesterday — and, for many, it feels like a gut punch.

The PWHL stays busy, with the entry draft set for tomorrow at 7 p.m. ET in Ottawa. Not to be confused with the expansion draft, where PWHL Vancouver and Seattle started filling out their rosters with current PWHL players earlier this month, the entry draft is a chance for all eight teams to add to their roster. Here’s what you need to know before the first pick is in.

The Florida Panthers (up 3-2) are just one victory away from clinching back-to-back Stanley Cups after Saturday’s 5–2 Game 5 win over the Edmonton Oilers. Before Game 6 begins in Florida tomorrow at 8 p.m. ET, here’s the standout storyline fueling each team, including why this best-of-seven series could still go the distance.