What happened: Michaels said the past week has moved quickly as he adjusted to life with Edmonton and the opening steps of his NHL run. He said congratulations from star teammates stood out alongside the goal.

Why it matters: That gives Michaels a fresh foothold in Edmonton's preseason picture as the club prepares to host Seattle. Early backing inside a veteran room matters for a rookie trying to turn a brief surge into a lasting spot.

What to watch: Edmonton is scheduled to host Seattle before heading out on a Pacific Division road trip. Michaels' next test is whether the early push earns him another lineup look.