The 2024 NHL offseason is well underway, and several teams are making headlines with significant roster changes that could shape the upcoming season in exciting ways.
Florida Panthers Triumph and Build for the Future
The Florida Panthers clinched the Stanley Cup, emerging victorious over the Edmonton Oilers in a thrilling Game 7. With the victory still fresh, the Panthers wasted no time in securing key players for the future. Sam Reinhart has been extended for eight years with a $69 million contract, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million. Reinhart was a crucial figure in their playoff run, scoring the game-winning goal in the 2024 Playoffs and tallying 10 goals overall.
Notable Draft Selections and Trades
The San Jose Sharks made a significant move during the 2024 NHL Draft, selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning orchestrated a flurry of activities. They signed Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million contract with a $9 million AAV after acquiring his negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. In a notable trade, the Lightning sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the draft.
Key Free Agency Signings
The New York Islanders bolstered their roster by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Last season, Duclair split his time between the San Jose Sharks and the Tampa Bay Lightning, scoring 24 goals. He has collected 303 career points, with 146 goals and 157 assists.
The Seattle Kraken made a splash by securing Chandler Stephenson on a seven-year contract with an AAV of $6.25 million. Known for his consistent performance, Stephenson has accumulated at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. The Kraken also strengthened their defense by signing Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract, which includes an AAV of $7.14 million. Montour was instrumental during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing three goals and eight assists.
Similarly, the Columbus Blue Jackets made headlines by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year deal worth $5.5 million annually. This move reunites Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined Columbus in the 2022 offseason.
Nashville Predators: Building a Powerhouse
The Nashville Predators have been quite active in the market. They have signed defenseman Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. Adding to the excitement, the Predators are poised to bring in superstar Steven Stamkos on a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos has an impressive career tally of 1,137 points. Additionally, they are expected to sign Jonathan Marchessault to a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season.
Toronto Maple Leafs Bolster Defense
The Toronto Maple Leafs have focused on strengthening their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. The Leafs obtained Tanev's negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars. Tanev contributed five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, bringing experience and depth to Toronto's blue line.
As free agency and offseason activities continue, teams are clearly focused on strategic moves to position themselves for success in the upcoming NHL season. Each of these transactions not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a foundation for future performance, ensuring an action-packed and competitive year ahead in the NHL.