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Monday Notebook: Sögaard Shines, Meriläinen Bounces Back, and Roy Sends a Message
It was a busy weekend across the hockey world, and there’s no shortage of storylines to dig into. Let’s break down the key moments and what they mean moving forward-from standout performances in the crease to bold coaching decisions and everything in between.
Sögaard Stands Tall, Meriläinen Finds His Groove
Let’s start in Ottawa, where Mads Sögaard delivered a rock-solid performance between the pipes on Sunday. The big netminder looked composed and confident, giving the Senators exactly what they needed. It’s the kind of outing that can set the tone for a young goalie trying to cement his role at the NHL level.
Meanwhile, down in Belleville, Leevi Meriläinen may have turned a corner. The Finnish goaltender stopped all 40 shots he faced on Saturday night against Springfield, earning a shutout and, more importantly, a much-needed boost in confidence.
Meriläinen’s had a tough stretch over the past month, but this kind of performance can be a springboard. Goalies are creatures of rhythm, and if Leevi can build off this, it could mark the beginning of a strong second half for him in the AHL.
LeBreton Flats Arena Project: Still a Work in Progress
On the business side of things, National Capital Commission CEO Tobi Nussbaum held a Zoom call last week to provide an update on the Senators’ proposed arena development at LeBreton Flats. There’s still a long road ahead-soil decontamination, financing hurdles, and the ever-present question of public funding all loom large.
But the vision remains intact, and the hope is that this project can eventually deliver a new home for the Sens in the heart of downtown Ottawa. The key question: how much taxpayer money, if any, will be involved?
That’s likely to be a major sticking point as talks continue.
Patrick Roy Sends a Message in Bold Fashion
Over in Long Island, Patrick Roy didn’t waste any time putting his stamp on the Islanders. In Saturday’s blowout loss to the Sabres, Roy benched both Mathew Barzal and captain Anders Lee for the entire third period. That’s not a small move-it’s a statement.
Yes, the Isles were only down by two goals at the time, but Roy clearly felt the need to draw a line. Benching two of your top leaders in a game that was still within reach is a bold play, and it speaks to the kind of accountability Roy wants to instill.
Whether it pays off long-term remains to be seen, but the players didn’t appear to push back on the decision. Sometimes, the message matters more than the result-especially early in a coach’s tenure.
Bouchard Joins Elite Company with Historic Night
Evan Bouchard had himself a night to remember on Saturday. The Oilers defenseman recorded a hat trick and added three assists for a six-point game-an absolutely outrageous stat line for a blueliner.
To put it in perspective, only three other defensemen in NHL history have ever pulled off that kind of performance. Not even legends like Paul Coffey or Ray Bourque managed it.
Bouchard has always had offensive upside, but this was something else entirely. It’s a reminder of just how dangerous Edmonton’s back end can be when their D-men are activating and joining the rush. If Bouchard can continue to tap into that high-end offensive game, it adds another layer to an already potent Oilers attack.
Nylander’s Gesture Sparks Buzz in Toronto
And then there’s Toronto, where the drama never sleeps. William Nylander found himself in the spotlight again this weekend-not for a goal or assist, but for an ill-advised gesture caught on camera.
During the Leafs’ loss to the Avalanche, Nylander was seen flipping off a camera pointed at the press box. He’s since apologized, but in a market like Toronto, moments like these don’t go unnoticed.
It’s a small incident in the grand scheme of things, but it speaks to the pressure cooker environment in Leaf Land. When the team struggles, even the smallest cracks get magnified. At least this time, the rest of Ontario can share in the frustration.
Tkachuk Brothers Talk Olympic Dreams
Finally, Pierre LeBrun sat down with Brady and Matthew Tkachuk to talk about their family’s connection to Team USA and the pressure they’re feeling heading into the Olympics. With their father Keith having worn the red, white, and blue before them, the Tkachuk brothers are carrying a legacy-and the weight of expectations.
They’re both key pieces for Team USA’s gold medal hopes, and that comes with its own kind of spotlight. The conversation offered a glimpse into the mindset of two of the NHL’s most competitive siblings as they prepare to chase Olympic glory.
From breakout performances to bold coaching moves, this weekend delivered plenty to talk about-and we’re just getting started.