National Hockey

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Evander Kane was so excited about being traded from a last-place team to one in playoff contention that he raced to a cross-country flight in order to jump right into the lineup.

NEW YORK — Of all the clubs that made deals before the NHL's trade deadline, a surprise team took perhaps the biggest gamble. The expansion Vegas Golden Knights.

PITTSBURGH — Taylor Hall equaled the Devils' franchise record with points in 15 straight games, Stefan Noesen scored the only goal of the third period and New Jersey beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 on Tuesday night.

DALLAS — The Dallas Stars needed a big performance from goaltender Ben Bishop to maintain their position in the playoff race, and they got one.

WINNIPEG — Roman Josi had Tuesday's game against the Winnipeg Jets circled on his calendar. The Nashville defenceman helped ensure the day ended on a high note, contributing five assists as the Predators beat their NHL Central Division rivals 6-5.

SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers feel they are finally playing up to their potential.

BOSTON — Two of Boston's new additions helped the Bruins avoid their first three-game losing streak of the season.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Eric Staal has been the ideal leader for the Minnesota Wild, continuing to produce no matter who he's skating with while coach Bruce Boudreau searches for the most effective combinations.

WASHINGTON — Evgeny Kuznetsov beat Ottawa's goaltender twice on Tuesday night. The Washington Capitals' penalty kill took it from there.

PITTSBURGH — Taylor Hall just wants to contribute to the New Jersey Devils' playoff run. The Devils are happy that he's contributing at a historic pace.