The fallout from a controversial incident involving Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone and Dallas Stars player Miro Heiskanen has ignited a firestorm on social media, with some fans calling for Stone to be banned for life. The incident, which many deemed a cross-body hit, has stirred debate about what constitutes a dirty play in the NHL.

Stars coach Peter DeBoer, who has an extensive history coaching Stone, defended him, stating that the hit was an unfortunate hockey play rather than a malicious act. The NHL's Department of Player Safety is unlikely to impose any severe penalties, given the context surrounding the event.

In a related note, the hockey community celebrates Scott Oake's inspiring memoir, which recounts his personal tragedies and triumphs, adding a touching narrative in an often tumultuous sport.

The NHL has imposed a fine on the Dallas Stars for breaching collective bargaining agreement (CBA) regulations by conducting an optional practice during the league's designated holiday break. According to a league source, the rules established by the NHL and NHL Players' Association dictate that all teams must refrain from activities from December 24 to December 26. Despite this, Stars coach Peter DeBoer disclosed that several players were present at the rink on December 23, prompting an investigation by the NHL.

DeBoer remarked on Friday, before a matchup against the Minnesota Wild, that young players were eager to attend the optional practice. This statement led to the NHL's inquiry, which the Stars reportedly cooperated with fully. Prior to the investigation, the league had sent a memo reminding teams of the holiday regulations, underscoring that no travel or ice time is permitted during this period.

This incident follows a pattern of previous infractions, as evidenced by the Toronto Maple Leafs being fined $100,000 in 2022 for a similar violation, and the Philadelphia Flyers facing penalties in 2015. The NHL views such breaches as potentially giving teams an unfair competitive edge, especially for those playing on December 27, who are expected to travel on the day of the game. Fines collected are generally directed to the NHL Foundation. As of Sunday afternoon, it was uncertain whether the Stars had been informed of the fine, with the team scheduled to face the Chicago Blackhawks later that evening.

Matt Rempe of the New York Rangers is facing an in-person hearing with the NHL's Department of Player Safety due to his boarding and elbowing of Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen. This hearing could result in a suspension of six games or more.

Rempe, a six-foot-eight forward, has a history of penalties, including a previous four-game suspension for an elbowing incident. His recent actions are under scrutiny as the league assesses the severity and intent behind the hit.

This week's NHL power rankings highlight the surprising firing of Jim Montgomery, who led the Boston Bruins to an impressive record but faced the consequences of a challenging season.

The Carolina Hurricanes take the top spot, showcasing their strong performance under Rod Brind'Amour, while the Winnipeg Jets and Minnesota Wild follow closely. The rankings reflect a competitive league where coaching changes may be on the horizon as teams vie for playoff positions.

In a thrilling matchup, the Florida Panthers triumphed over the Dallas Stars 4-2 in Tampere, Finland, completing a two-game sweep. AJ Greer netted his first goal for Florida, with notable contributions from Aleksander Barkov and Niko Mikkola.

Sam Reinhart, Evan Rodrigues, and Matthew Tkachuk also scored, with Reinhart achieving a milestone of 20 points this season. The Stars faced their first back-to-back losses of the season, with goals from Matt Duchene and Evgenii Dadonov.