The 2024 NHL offseason is buzzing with excitement as teams across the league engage in a flurry of activity to bolster their rosters. The Florida Panthers clinched the Stanley Cup Final in a nail-biting Game 7 against the Edmonton Oilers, solidifying their place atop the hockey world. Meanwhile, other franchises are making strategic moves in hopes of achieving similar success in the coming season.
Draft Highlights
In a bid to rejuvenate their lineup, the San Jose Sharks made a bold statement by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Celebrini, who has been on the radar of scouts and analysts alike, is expected to be a cornerstone for the Sharks as they look to rebuild.
Major Signings
The start of free agency on Monday at noon ET saw a series of significant signings that could reshape the landscape of the league. The Florida Panthers wasted no time in locking down key talent, signing Sam Reinhart to a lucrative eight-year, $69 million contract extension. With an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million, Reinhart's extension underscores his value to the franchise, especially after his stellar performance in the 2024 Playoffs where he scored the game-winning goal and tallied 10 goals overall.
The Tampa Bay Lightning made headlines by securing Jake Guentzel with a seven-year, $63 million contract, resulting in a $9 million AAV. This signing came on the heels of the Lightning acquiring Guentzel’s negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. Additionally, the Lightning executed a strategic trade, sending defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the draft.
Strategic Acquisitions
The New York Islanders also joined the fray by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year deal. Duclair, who scored 24 goals last season while splitting time between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning, brings considerable firepower to the Islanders' offensive line. With 303 career points, including 146 goals and 157 assists, Duclair's experience and scoring ability are valuable assets.
Out west, the Seattle Kraken bolstered their roster with two significant signings. Center Chandler Stephenson agreed to a seven-year contract with an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson, known for his consistent performance, has tallied at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. Additionally, the Kraken secured defenseman Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract. Montour, who contributed three goals and eight assists during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, is expected to fortify the Kraken's blue line.
Reunions and Reorganizations
The Columbus Blue Jackets made a splash by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually. This move reunites Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined Columbus in the 2022 offseason. The duo's chemistry will be pivotal in the Blue Jackets' offensive strategy.
Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks secured winger Jake DeBrusk on a seven-year deal with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk’s 40 points in the 2023-24 season highlight his potential to be a key contributor for the Canucks.
Defensive Strength
The Carolina Hurricanes extended Jaccob Slavin’s contract for another eight years with a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin’s 37 points last season are a testament to his dual role in offense and defense, making him a critical component of the Hurricanes' plans moving forward.
In Nashville, the Predators signed Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. Additionally, the Predators are poised to make a significant impact by bringing in veteran forward Steven Stamkos on a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos has amassed an impressive 1,137 points in his career, underscoring his elite status. The Predators are also expected to add Jonathan Marchessault on a five-year deal worth $5.5 million annually, further boosting their offensive depth.
Lastly, the Toronto Maple Leafs strengthened their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. The Leafs acquired Tanev’s negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars, ensuring they could secure his services. Tanev posted five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, showcasing his reliability on the blue line.
As the offseason progresses, these moves undoubtedly shape the strategies and expectations for the upcoming NHL season. With key players finding new homes and teams positioning themselves for success, fans have plenty to look forward to as the puck drops in the fall.