The 2024 NHL offseason is buzzing with activity as teams maneuver to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season. The Florida Panthers are among the headliners, having clinched the Stanley Cup Final in a nail-biting Game 7 against the Edmonton Oilers. The franchise's triumph was underscored by Sam Reinhart, who not only scored the game-winning goal in the playoffs but also secured a lucrative eight-year, $69 million contract extension, with an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million.
Draft Day Movements and Free Agency Signings
The San Jose Sharks made headlines by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, a move expected to shape the team's future. The excitement didn't stop there, as the free agency frenzy kicked off at noon ET on Monday, leading to a slew of high-profile signings and surprising trades.
The Tampa Bay Lightning were particularly active, inking forward Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million contract, which carries a $9 million AAV. Guentzel's rights were acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick, underlining Tampa Bay's commitment to enhancing their offensive firepower. Simultaneously, the Lightning sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club as part of the draft day deals.
Teams Strengthening Their Cores
Meanwhile, the New York Islanders secured the services of Anthony Duclair with a four-year contract. Duclair, who netted 24 goals last season while splitting his time between the San Jose Sharks and the Tampa Bay Lightning, brings considerable experience and scoring prowess. His career tally stands at 303 points, including 146 goals and 157 assists.
Out west, the Seattle Kraken made significant additions by signing Chandler Stephenson and defenseman Brandon Montour. Stephenson, who has consistently notched at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons, agreed to a seven-year deal with a $6.25 million AAV. Montour, fresh off contributing three goals and eight assists during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, landed a seven-year, $50 million contract, reflecting an annual value of $7.14 million.
Reunions and Future Signings
In Columbus, the Blue Jackets orchestrated a reunion by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract valued at $5.5 million annually. Monahan will reunite with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets in the 2022 offseason, aiming to rejuvenate their on-ice chemistry.
Similarly, the Vancouver Canucks made a strategic move by adding winger Jake DeBrusk on a seven-year deal with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk is coming off a productive 2023-24 season where he posted 40 points.
The Carolina Hurricanes secured their defensive line by extending Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years, featuring a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin's reliable performance, amassing 37 points last season, underscores his value to the team's core.
Predators' Ambitious Moves
One of the most ambitious players in this offseason has been the Nashville Predators. The team signed defenseman Brady Skjei to a seven-year deal worth $7 million annually, adding significant depth to their blue line. Additionally, the Predators are expected to make a splash with the anticipated signings of Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. Stamkos, a seasoned veteran with 1,137 career points, is poised to sign a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Marchessault, set to bring his scoring touch to Nashville, is projected to ink a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually.
Maple Leafs' Defensive Strengthening
The Toronto Maple Leafs also made notable moves by securing defenseman Chris Tanev to a six-year contract featuring an AAV of $4.5 million. Tanev was acquired from the Dallas Stars, bringing his seasoned defensive skills to bolster the Maple Leafs' backline, despite appearing in only 19 games last season and posting five points.
As the 2024 NHL offseason progresses, these transactions highlight the strategic planning and aspirations of each team, setting the stage for an exhilarating upcoming season. The mix of veteran signings, trades, and promising draft picks ensures that the NHL landscape will be more competitive and thrilling than ever.