NHL Daily: Kevin Hayes’ Retort to Torts; Habs-Flyers Had JVR Talks

Philadelphia Flyers forward Kevin Hayes doesn’t think his benching from coach John Tortorella was warranted.

The Boston Bruins probably don’t think they will ever lose in regulation at home this season.

And the Montreal Canadiens were thinking about adding left winger James van Riemsdyk last summer, but it seems their Shayne Gostisbehere-type “offer” insulted Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher.

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Around the NHL and National Hockey Now

Philly Hockey Now: Kevin Hayes talks about his benching for the first time. Not surprisingly, he disagreed with it. He gets a chance to redeem himself Tuesday against visiting Columbus. Philadelphia Flyers.

Philly Hockey Now: The Flyers got more bad news on the medical front: Right winger Cam Atkinson will have neck surgery performed Wednesday and will miss the rest of the season.  He is expected to return for the start of 2023-24. Philadelphia Flyers.

Philly Hockey Now: Will the Flyers buy out the final three years of Hayes’ contract after the season. A national insider, Elliotte Friedman, says it makes sense. And cents. Philadelphia Flyers.

Philly Hockey Now: The Flyers brought holiday cheer Monday to kids in area hospitals. Bravo. Philadelphia Flyers.

Montreal Hockey Now: The Habs had talks with the Flyers last summer about acquiring James van Riemsdyk, but Montreal apparently wanted Philly to give a first-round pick in the swap because it was taking a big cap hit. No  thanks, Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher said. Wisely. Montreal Canadiens.

Washington Hockey Now: The Capitals’ next moves will depend on T.J. Oshie’s health. He was injured Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Would the Caps pursue James van Riemsdyk and make him teammates with his brother, Trevor? Washington Capitals.

Boston Hockey Now: The Bruins defeated Florida, 7-3, and increased their season-opening home point streak to 19 games (17-0-2). Patrice Bergeron had four points (two goals, two assists) for Boston. Boston Bruins.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Veteran defenseman Kris Letang, who recently had a stroke, had a touching locker-room moment with his 10-year-old son, Alex. Pittsburgh Penguins.

Dallas Hockey Now: The Stars finished a 3-1-1 road trip with a 2-1 win over Columbus. Jake Oettinger earned his 100th career win and came within 14.3 seconds of collecting a shutout. The Flyers will host the lowly Blue Jackets on Tuesday. Philly is actually heavily favored (minus-176 on FanDuel).  Dallas Stars.