Bantering Points: 8/17/26

Here are today's news and links:

From Blueshirt Banter:

Chris Feldman takes a look at what is in store for the New Jersey Devils this upcoming season (BSB)

Chris Feldman previews the expectations for Jaroslav Chmelar after his first season with the Rangers (BSB)

Keegan Jarvis examines the veteran forwards on the Hartford Wolf Pack heading into the 2026-27 season (BSB)

The podcast question thread is up for this week's episode of Blueshirt Bandwidth, so ask away (BSB)

Rangers News:

Brian Abbate explains why the Rangers need consistent play for Alexis Lafrenière this season (THW)

Scott Rogust looks back at when goaltender Henrik Lundqvist broke two franchise records in the same week (Blue Line Station)

Kenneth Teape talks about why contract negotiations with Will Cuylle on his next contract could be difficult (Sports Illustrated)

Around the NHL:

The Carolina Hurricanes have acquired forward Stiven Sardarian from the Buffalo Sabres (SportsNet)

Ottawa Senators forward Drake Batherson is aiming to get an eight-year contract extension before the Sept. 15th deadline (TSN)

Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid becomes the first player to receive a 99 overall rating in EA's NHL game (Bleacher Report)

The NHL season is getting closer, and so is fantasy hockey, so here is a big board of the top 250 players (NHL.com)