Canadiens Sweep Leafs in Split-Squad; Ullmark and Dorofeyev Ready for New Seasons
Montreal swept Toronto in split-squad action, with Cole Caufield scoring in overtime. Senators goalie Linus Ullmark is confident after a tough year, while Rangers winger Pavel Dorofeyev looks forward to his new role. Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna was held scoreless in his first preseason game.
Montreal's sweep came via contrasting paths: Cole Caufield's overtime winner decided the home contest, while Phillip Danault's two goals powered a 4-1 road victory. Lane Hutson contributed three points in the opener. Elsewhere, Edmonton's star duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl each posted two points, with Evan Bouchard adding four assists in a 5-2 win over Winnipeg.
Ullmark's 2025-26 season featured early struggles and a mental health leave before he returned to help Ottawa reach the playoffs. Dorofeyev arrives in New York after consecutive 35-goal campaigns with Vegas, signing a seven-year, $77-million deal. The Wiesblatt brothers squared off in a Nashville scrimmage, and Anaheim extended center Tim Washe on a four-year, $2.25-million AAV contract.
These preseason storylines could shape early-season expectations for several franchises. Ullmark's mental health journey may influence how teams approach player wellness protocols, while Dorofeyev's transition to a major market could affect the Rangers' playoff viability. Rookie performances like McKenna's debut may draw attention to Toronto's development pipeline, potentially impacting fan engagement and media coverage as the regular season approaches.