The Abbotsford Canucks’ Top Dogs night last March helped add a new member to forward Tristen Nielsen’s growing family: a new puppy named Oakley.

Bridgeport Islanders teammates Marc Gatcomb and Wyatt Newpower have a bond that goes far beyond Total Mortgage Arena. But at the same time, it’s a unique relationship rooted and nurtured well within the Nutmeg State.

The formula for the Laval Rocket’s early success this season is straightforward, according to new head coach Pascal Vincent. It started long before the opening game when he began referring to a certain “wolf pack” mentality.

Grand Rapids Griffins goaltender Sebastian Cossa grew up playing hockey in Fort McMurray, Alberta, because there wasn’t much else to do. Options were limited.

Nico Daws’ career path has had its share of ups and downs, but the 23-year-old continues to work hard to become a full-time NHL goaltender.

After joining the Texas Stars just six days after concluding his collegiate career, rookie Justin Hryckowian is turning April’s lessons into this fall’s success.

Zac Dalpe and Trevor Carrick have established themselves as pillars in the Charlotte hockey world, reigning as number one and two in the Checkers franchise record book for games played, respectively. But even with their extended tenures in the Queen City, the duo’s paths never crossed – until this season.

When Stefan Matteau re-signed with the Cleveland Monsters in July, he knew it was more than just an opportunity to extend his career into its 13th season. For Matteau and his young family, it became a chance to establish a home as they embarked on a new phase of life.

The Manitoba Moose never counted themselves out of playoff contention, even in the midst of an 11-game losing streak. They knew if they continued working to improve, the results would eventually turn, with success to follow.

Though thrown into a whirlwind at first, Magnus Hellberg has found his groove with the Charlotte Checkers, becoming a part of the brotherhood dynamic the team has.