Sidney Crosby continues to etch his name into the annals of NHL history, setting a new record for the most points-per-game seasons at 20. The Pittsburgh Penguins captain secured this milestone by scoring against the Buffalo Sabres, assisted by Rickard Rakell, marking his 20th consecutive season with at least a point per game. This achievement surpasses the legendary Wayne Gretzky's previous record of 19 such seasons.

As he leads all active players with 1,676 career points, Crosby's consistency and excellence are on full display. His remarkable ability to remain a top performer over two decades sets a high mark for future generations. Fantasy managers should view Crosby as an invaluable asset, especially as he continues to find ways to impact games at an elite level.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed NCAA defenseman John Prokop as they aim to strengthen their thinning prospect pool after trading away two first-round picks. They are also expressing interest in centerman Karsen Dorwart, who had previously considered joining them last offseason but opted to return to college instead. Meanwhile, the Anaheim Ducks are actively exploring trade negotiations for goalie John Gibson, with frustrations from both sides about missed opportunities before the trade deadline.

In the Eastern Conference, the Carolina Hurricanes are aggressively pursuing a contract extension for Mikko Rantanen, having offered him an eight-year deal worth $12.5 million per season but lacking meaningful progress. The Hurricanes are also keeping their options open for other potential trades while maintaining a focus on immediate contributors rather than future assets.

The Tampa Bay Lightning are making strategic moves to clear salary cap space, especially with Cam Atkinson and Logan Brown clearing waivers. Atkinson's $900,000 cap hit can now be buried, and Brown, with a $775,000 cap hit after signing a two-way NHL contract, adds flexibility. As the trade deadline approaches, rumors swirl about potential trades involving key players like Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand.

Several teams are active on the waiver wire, with the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, and Florida Panthers also making adjustments. Detroit, eyeing a playoff spot, is clearing significant cap space, possibly over $13 million after burying Christian Fischer's contract. This dynamic environment sets the stage for further trades leading up to the deadline.