Rakell Named NHL First Star with 7 Goals

TORONTO - Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell was named the NHL's first star for the week ending April 6, 2026, after leading the league with seven goals that powered his team to a 4-1-0 record.

Rakell, 32, extended his goal streak to five games, one short of his career best set during the 2017-18 season. His scoring surge included key contributions in wins over teams including the Florida Panthers on April 5 in Pittsburgh, where he was recognized as the game's top performer. The Penguins, who entered the season with low expectations of playoff contention, have defied predictions with a balanced attack that ranks second in the league for goals scored.

New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes took second-star honors, accumulating nine points with three goals and six assists over four games, helping his team earn points in three contests for a 2-1-1 mark. At 24, Hughes has posted 72 points, including 25 goals and 47 assists, in 56 games this season, showcasing his playmaking ability in the Metropolitan Division.

St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas rounded out the trio as the third star, notching eight points with five goals and three assists in four games as the Blues went...