Eeli Tolvanen led the Seattle Kraken to a decisive 6-3 victory over the Vancouver Canucks, scoring twice, including the crucial go-ahead goal with just under seven minutes remaining in the second period. This win marked a significant bounce-back for the Kraken after struggling offensively in recent games. Tolvanen's performance came after Matty Beniers tied the game earlier in the second period. Despite a 2-1 deficit following goals from Pius Suter and Filip Chytil, Seattle rallied to take control with Oliver Bjorkstrand and Tolvanen contributing to a five-goal output.

Brandon Montour also made a notable impact with a goal and an assist, providing a two-goal cushion for the Kraken, which was vital against a Vancouver team that struggles when allowing five or more goals. Joey Daccord stood tall in net with 28 saves, demonstrating resilience against Vancouver's offensive barrage. Vancouver remains in the playoff chase despite this setback, holding on to the second wild-card spot due to Calgary's loss, but they must tighten their defense to improve their odds.

Andrew Copp's season-ending injury presents a challenge for the Detroit Red Wings as they approach the trade deadline. Copp was a key contributor, thriving under Coach Todd McLellan as a second-line center, but the team is in a unique position regarding their cap situation and roster depth. Moving Copp to long-term injured reserve won’t free up significant cap space, as Detroit already has ample room for moves without needing to account for his $5.625 million cap hit.

Despite the injury, the Red Wings should not feel pressured to make a drastic move for a replacement. The right fit is crucial, especially considering their current rebuild stage. Candidates like Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders are attractive but may come at a steep price, while Yanni Gourde of the Seattle Kraken is injured, complicating potential trades. Instead, J.T. Compher has stepped up, filling Copp's role effectively, and with other internal options available, the Red Wings may opt to look within rather than seek an external solution.

Yanni Gourde's recovery from January's sports hernia surgery has become a focal point for several NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, who may look to acquire him as he approaches free agency. Expected to return around March 7, Gourde's history of winning two Stanley Cups with Tampa Bay adds to his appeal. The St. Louis Blues are also in the spotlight, with General Manager Doug Armstrong open to trades involving several players, notably goaltender Jordan Binnington. Quinton Byfield's name has surfaced in trade rumors as the Los Angeles Kings seek a playoff boost. Meanwhile, Mikko Rantanen's potential move looms with the Carolina Hurricanes reportedly offering him a lucrative deal, raising questions about his future with the Colorado Avalanche.

Vladislav Namestnikov's recent contract extension with the Winnipeg Jets, worth $3 million annually over two years, solidifies his role as a reliable bottom-six forward. While the 32-year-old has performed admirably, the Jets must still pursue a second-line center to bolster their playoff chances. Acquiring a player like Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders could relieve Namestnikov, who has shown versatility and potential when paired with talented forwards like Nikolaj Ehlers and Cole Perfetti.

Namestnikov’s scoring ability, highlighted by a career-high of 20 goals in the 2017-18 season, remains inconsistent, yet he is on track to match that output this season. If the Jets can't land Nelson, other options like Oliver Bjorkstrand or Rickard Rakell could provide the much-needed offensive support to help Namestnikov thrive, especially during crucial playoff moments.

The NHL returns with an exciting slate of 10 games, with a focus on two key matchups as teams resume action after a long break. The Seattle Kraken face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning, while the Dallas Stars take on the New York Islanders. The Kraken look to build momentum after a recent victory, but face a tough test against a hot Lightning squad led by Andrei Vasilevskiy. Meanwhile, the Stars, with Jake Oettinger in goal, aim to continue their strong form against an Islanders team struggling with consistency.

Betting enthusiasts should consider backing the Lightning on the puck line given their recent offensive fireworks and the potential for a high-scoring game. For the Stars-Islanders clash, the over seems equally appealing, showing promise based on both teams' recent scoring trends.