Michael Kesselring, a standout defenseman for the Utah Hockey Club, has been selected to represent Team USA at the upcoming 2025 IIHF World Championship in Denmark and Sweden. At 25, Kesselring is building on a successful season where he achieved career-highs in various statistical categories, including goals and assists. He previously made an impact on the international stage with two goals and an assist during last year's tournament.

Joining Kesselring on Team USA are fellow Granite State connections Drew O'Connor and two Boston Bruins players, Jeremy Swayman and Mason Lohrei. O'Connor, now with the Vancouver Canucks after a trade from the Pittsburgh Penguins, brings valuable NHL experience, while Swayman has had a solid season in net with a record of 22-29.

As the NHL season progresses, fantasy managers should keep a keen eye on rising talents available on the waiver wire. Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers is making headlines with 10 points in his last six games, showcasing his potential as a Calder Trophy contender. Meanwhile, Valeri Nichushkin has re-entered the fantasy conversation with a strong performance since his return to the Colorado Avalanche, commanding attention after scoring in his first game back.

Adam Fantilli continues to be a valuable asset for the Columbus Blue Jackets, delivering consistent point production with seven goals and seven assists over his last 13 games, while Shane Wright of the Seattle Kraken is proving his worth with a solid offensive run, leading his team in scoring over the last month.

On the blue line, Alex Vlasic of the Chicago Blackhawks is stepping up significantly, anchoring the top power play unit and contributing offensively. Boston's Mason Lohrei is also worth a grab, thriving on the power play while Charlie McAvoy is sidelined.

In goal, Anthony Stolarz could see increased playing time for the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially with Joseph Woll's recent struggles. Karel Vejmelka is also a name to consider as he keeps his team competitive on a push for the playoffs.

The Buffalo Sabres dominated the Boston Bruins with a 7-2 victory, highlighted by hat tricks from both Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka, marking a notable achievement for the team. This victory also saw Mason Lohrei and Brad Marchand score for the Bruins, with Jeremy Swayman saving 26 shots. Despite the loss, the Bruins have recently found some form after a rough patch, winning five of their last eight matches.

Thompson's hat trick was his seventh career hat trick, while it was a first for Peterka. The Sabres also had contributions from Zach Benson and solid goaltending from Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who also made 26 saves.

Brayden Point achieved a significant milestone by scoring his 600th career point with a power-play goal as the Tampa Bay Lightning triumphed over the Boston Bruins 4-1. The Lightning's victory came with standout performances, including Brandon Hagel contributing a goal and an assist, while Michael Eyssimont and Anthony Cirelli found the net in the second period.

In goal, Andrei Vasilevskiy made 27 saves, helping Tampa Bay secure back-to-back wins following a four-game losing streak. This success allows the Lightning to leapfrog the Bruins into third place in the Atlantic Division. For Boston, Mason Lohrei netted their lone goal, and Jeremy Swayman also recorded 27 saves, but the team has struggled, with a dismal record of 0-5-1 over its last six outings.

Brayden Point achieved a career milestone on Thursday night, scoring his 600th career point with a power-play goal as the Tampa Bay Lightning triumphed over the Boston Bruins 4-1. The team showcased a strong performance, with Brandon Hagel contributing a goal and an assist, while Michael Eyssimont and Anthony Cirelli each found the net during a crucial second period.

Tampa Bay's victory marks their second consecutive win following a four-game losing streak, allowing them to leapfrog the Bruins into third place in the Atlantic Division.