Full Breakdown
NHL Preseason Updates: Roster Moves and Player Developments
9/29/2025, 1:28:01 PM
Canadiens Make Roster Adjustments
The Montreal Canadiens have made significant roster moves as they continue their training camp. On September 28, 2025, the team announced that forwards Alex Belzile, Lucas Condotta, and Sean Farrell, along with defensemen Nathan Clurman and Marc Del Gaizo, have been placed on waivers for the purpose of loaning them to the Laval Rocket in the American Hockey League (AHL). This follows the assignment of 24 players to Laval after a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, 29 players remain at the Canadiens' training camp, which will resume on Monday at the CN Sports Complex in Brossard.
Oilers Focus on Rookies and Injuries
The Edmonton Oilers are also making headlines as they wrap up their preseason. Head coach Kris Knoblauch has highlighted the strong performances of rookies Noah Philp, Isaac Howard, and Matt Savoie, who have shown promise in their bid for roster spots. Trent Frederic, who has been moved to the top line alongside stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, is under scrutiny as he attempts to find his footing in a top-six role due to injuries affecting Zach Hyman and Vasily Podkolzin. Despite a recent 4-1 loss to the Seattle Kraken, Knoblauch remains optimistic about Frederic's potential to complement the elite players.
In terms of goaltending, the Oilers opted not to pursue Connor Ingram, who cleared waivers. Instead, they are confident in their current tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, with the latter recently achieving a shutout against the Winnipeg Jets.
Blues' Cam Fowler Secures Extension
In St. Louis, the Blues have secured veteran defenseman Cam Fowler with a three-year contract extension worth $18.3 million. Fowler expressed his gratitude for the support from management and teammates, stating, “I’m thrilled... I appreciate the support from management to get this done.” General Manager Doug Armstrong emphasized the importance of locking in Fowler before the season, noting the positive impact he has had since joining the team.
Blackhawks Showcase Young Talent
The Chicago Blackhawks displayed their young talent in a recent preseason game against the Minnesota Wild, winning 4-1. Frank Nazar scored a hat trick, showcasing his skills as he vies for a spot on the NHL roster. The Blackhawks' performance was bolstered by Drew Commesso, who made 28 saves, demonstrating his readiness for the upcoming season.
Official Statements & Responses
Kris Knoblauch remarked on Frederic's integration into the top line, acknowledging the line's struggles but expressing hope for improvement. “If you look at the stat line, it doesn’t look very good,” he stated, “but we hope he can complement them.” Meanwhile, Cam Fowler highlighted the supportive environment in St. Louis, saying, “It’s this team, it’s the guys we have in the locker room... I’m happy to be a part of this team.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding the Oilers' roster decisions, some analysts have criticized the choice to pass on goaltender Connor Ingram, suggesting that the team may be overlooking potential improvements to their goaltending depth.
What's Next
As the preseason progresses, teams will continue to finalize their rosters ahead of the regular season. The Canadiens, Oilers, Blues, and Blackhawks will be closely monitoring player performances in the coming days as they prepare for the start of the NHL season.
