David Backes hopes for a better performance this season with the Boston Bruins.

Updates on David Backes, Aaron Ekblad, Erik Karlsson, Nate Schmidt & more in your NHL morning coffee headlines. 

THE BOSTON GLOBE: After struggling through his first season with the Bruins, veteran forward David Backes has something to prove in 2017-18. 

NBC SPORTS: Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad is hoping for a bounce-back effort following a disappointing, injury-shortened performance last season.

OTTAWA SUN: Senators captain Erik Karlsson married Melinda Curry in Ottawa on Saturday. 

THE HOCKEY NEWS: A look at possible candidates to replace now-retired Mike Fisher as captain of the Nashville Predators. 

LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL: An arbiter yesterday awarded Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nate Schmidt a two-year, $4.45 million contract.