What happened: Braeden Cootes found the net as preseason play opened ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season. The goal put his name at the center of an early exhibition result.

Why it matters: That is the kind of early return that matters for a young forward trying to turn camp momentum into a longer look. Preseason games are where roster battles shift from projection to game tape before opening-night decisions.

What to watch: Watch whether Cootes keeps seeing meaningful preseason usage and whether the scoring carries into the next round of roster cuts.