As the NHL offseason kicks into high gear, teams are making significant moves to reshape their rosters, clear salary cap space, and set the foundation for the 2024-25 season. With the NHL salary cap set to rise to $88 million, organizations are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on the increased financial flexibility.
Tampa Bay Lightning Restructuring
The Tampa Bay Lightning have been particularly active, orchestrating several major trades. In a surprising move, the Lightning traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club, receiving multiple players and draft picks in return. Additionally, Tampa Bay acquired the rights to star winger Jake Guentzel. The organization wasted no time, reportedly signing Guentzel to a seven-year contract, ensuring his presence on the roster for the foreseeable future.
In another significant trade, the Lightning sent forward Tanner Jeannot to the Los Angeles Kings. The trade yielded a fourth-round and a second-round pick, adding valuable assets for Tampa Bay’s continued development.
Senators Deal Jakob Chychrun
The Ottawa Senators also made headlines by trading defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the Washington Capitals. In return, the Senators acquired defenseman Nick Jensen and a 2026 third-round pick. Chychrun, who had spent the last two seasons with the Senators after being acquired from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2023 trade deadline, will now look to make an impact in Washington's defensive line-up.
New Jersey Devils on the Move
The New Jersey Devils demonstrated their commitment to future success by trading defenseman John Marino to the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for several draft picks. Additionally, the Devils facilitated a deal with Montreal, moving Jonathan Kovacevic to the Canadiens.
Another notable move for the Devils saw them trade forward Alexander Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid to the Vegas Golden Knights for forward Paul Cotter. This exchange brings a new dynamic to New Jersey’s forward lines as the team seeks to bolster its offensive capabilities.
Capitals, Blues, and Sabres Adjust Rosters
The Washington Capitals were also active, acquiring goaltender Logan Thompson from the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for a pair of third-round picks. This move aims to solidify the Capitals’ goaltending options moving forward.
In a multi-faceted trade, the St. Louis Blues sent forward Kevin Hayes and a second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, the Blues acquired forward Alex Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round pick, adding depth to their squad.
The Buffalo Sabres made a targeted addition by acquiring forward Beck Malenstyn from the Washington Capitals, looking to bolster their offensive lineup for the upcoming season.
Potential Moves to Watch
As the offseason progresses, league insiders are closely monitoring potential moves involving several key players. Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson, and Ducks center Trevor Zegras headline the list of names in trade rumors. Each of these players could significantly impact any team looking to add talent before the new season commences.
The Carolina Hurricanes are also reportedly looking to trade young winger Martin Necas. Necas, coming off his second straight 20-goal season at the age of 25, represents a valuable asset for any team seeking to enhance their offensive depth.
Overall, the NHL offseason is shaping up to be a period of significant transformation. Teams are diligently working to strengthen their rosters and positioning themselves for a competitive 2024-25 season, with strategic trades and signings dominating the landscape. As these moves continue to unfold, hockey fans can expect an exciting build-up to the new season.