National Hockey

VANCOUVER — Life post-Brock Boeser didn't get off to a very promising start for the Canucks. Derek Stepan scored late the third period and the Western Conference-worst Arizona Coyotes defeated Vancouver 2-1 on Wednesday night.

PHILADELPHIA — Conor Sheary scored two goals, Sidney Crosby had three assists and the Pittsburgh Penguins moved into first place in the Metropolitan Division with a 5-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday night.

PHILADELPHIA — Sidney Crosby's continued dominance of the Flyers helped the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Penguins move back into first place.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Flames rookie goalie David Rittich cared little about missing out on his first career shutout bid with 18 seconds left.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Hall of Fame player Ron Francis is out as general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes after four years but will remain with the team in another front-office position, new owner Tom Dundon said Wednesday night.

NEW YORK — Boston Bruins forward David Backes has been suspended for three games for a shoulder to the head of Detroit's Frans Nielsen.

NEW YORK — Boston Bruins forward David Backes has been suspended for three games for a shoulder to the head of Detroit's Frans Nielsen.

NEW YORK — Boston Bruins forward David Backes has been suspended for three games for a shoulder to the head of Detroit's Frans Nielsen.

OTTAWA — Jean-Gabriel Pageau is the type of hockey player who would play goal if you asked him to. Fortunately, he's been given an assignment much more to his liking.

OTTAWA — Jean-Gabriel Pageau is the type of hockey player who would play goal if you asked him to. Fortunately, he's been given an assignment much more to his liking.