Defenseman Ian Cole's storyline for the 2026-27 season surrounds the reason general manager Kyle Davidson said he signed him in free agency: "I think in Ian Cole's case, (he) provides some really veteran presence and a steadying influence on our young d-core." He can wear many hats, so the young defense won't feel so swamped in their development. Will Cole bring the same presence brought by past veterans? Next season, Cole will have other veterans alongside him, including Patrick Kane and Tyler Bertuzzi. Overall, if Cole continues to bring the same reliable, guiding voice that he has brought throughout his career, that is what his veteran presence should look like.