(nhl) tell me why is this trending now

The NHL is trending primarily because the 2026–27 regular season is officially getting underway this week, driving major spikes in fan discussion, fantasy hockey drafts, and national media coverage.

Key storylines driving the conversation include:

• Season Openers & Banner Raisings: Opening games are kicking off, headlined by marquee matchups and the Carolina Hurricanes raising their 2025–26 Stanley Cup championship banner against the Florida Panthers.

• Blockbuster Preseason Trades & Rosters: Roster cut-downs before Opening Night have triggered high-profile moves, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets completing a major trade involving Matthew Knies and Kirill Marchenko.

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• Milestone Chases & Veteran Contract Drama: Buzz surrounds major career milestonessuch as Sidney Crosby approaching 700 goalsalongside front-office contract negotiations involving key veterans and restricted free agents.