Welcome to another edition of NHL Notebook, where we examine current events across the league.

There’s no need for preamble, as NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly made a declarative statement that ought to reverberate around the international hockey community.

Daily Faceoff managing editor Matt Larkin reached out to NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly, about the chances of NHL players not being able to attend the Olympics, with concerns growing about the completion of an NHL ice surface in Milan. Daly responded emphatically.

Construction on the arena is reportedly behind schedule, and it’s been widely reported that the arena is four feet shorter than a regulation NHL rink. Complications appear to be compounding, and the NHL’s leadership will be prioritizing player safety over everything, even it means ruling out a best-on-best international competition.

“In the end, it can be a 100-by-100-foot sheet. You just want to go out there and play and have that opportunity,” Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews said to Sportsnet’s Luke Fox.

“So, hopefully they can kind of resolve everything and get everything figured out. But in the end, just gotta go out there and play, I guess.”

Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Ryan McDonagh signed a three-year extension worth $4.1 million per season on Thursday. The 36-year-old has won two Stanley Cups with the Lightning and will likely end his career with the organization. McDonagh is in excellent form and remains as one of the NHL’s best defensive defencemen, while providing veteran leadership.

Last season, McDonagh surpassed the 1,000-game milestone and is one of the best players from the 2007 NHL Draft class. Tampa Bay not only rewards a key pillar of its dynastic years, but found cost certainty for an excellent player, who is producing strong returns well into his 30s.

Take $20 off your first Vivid Seats order of $200+ using promo code LEAFSNATION (new customers only, $200 USD minimum before taxes & fees)