As the NHL offseason kicks into high gear, teams are making significant moves to reshape rosters, clear salary cap space, and set the foundation for the 2024-25 season. The NHL salary cap is set to rise to $88 million, a crucial factor in many of these transactions. Here’s a look at some of the notable trades and signings shaking up the league.
Tampa Bay Lightning's Bold Moves
One of the most active teams has been the Tampa Bay Lightning. In a surprising move, the Lightning traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club. In return, Tampa Bay received multiple players and draft picks, aiming to restructure their lineup significantly. But the Lightning didn’t stop there; they also managed to acquire the rights to star winger Jake Guentzel.
Reports indicate that Tampa Bay has signed Guentzel to a seven-year contract, a clear signal to the rest of the league about their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. In another strategic maneuver, the Lightning traded forward Tanner Jeannot to the Los Angeles Kings for a fourth-round and a second-round pick, further enhancing their future prospects.
Ottawa Senators and Washington Capitals Exchange Key Players
The Ottawa Senators made headlines by trading defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the Washington Capitals. In exchange, the Senators received defenseman Nick Jensen and a 2026 third-round pick. Chychrun, who had been with the Senators for two seasons after being acquired from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2023 trade deadline, will now look to make his mark in Washington.
New Jersey Devils on a Trade Spree
The New Jersey Devils have been just as active. They traded defenseman John Marino to the Utah Hockey Club, acquiring several draft picks in return. Additionally, the Devils moved Jonathan Kovacevic to the Montreal Canadiens. These moves indicate a clear strategy aimed at building for the future while adjusting their current roster dynamics.
In another intriguing deal, the Devils traded forward Alexander Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for forward Paul Cotter. This trade could be seen as a balanced effort to meet immediate team needs while also setting sights on long-term goals.
Capitals and Golden Knights Swap Talent
The Washington Capitals were not content with only the Chychrun acquisition. They also traded for Logan Thompson from the Vegas Golden Knights, giving up a pair of third-round picks. This move shows the Capitals’ intent to strengthen their goaltending options, which has been a point of focus for the team.
Additional Notable Transactions
The Buffalo Sabres added forward Beck Malenstyn from the Washington Capitals, looking to bolster their offensive capabilities. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues sent forward Kevin Hayes and a second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins, receiving forward Alex Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round pick. These relatively under-the-radar moves could provide substantial payoffs as each team recalibrates for the upcoming season.
Rumored Moves and Potential Trades
Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson, and Ducks center Trevor Zegras have all been mentioned as possible trade candidates. League insiders are keenly watching these situations, as any move involving these high-caliber players could have significant ramifications across the NHL.
The Carolina Hurricanes are also reportedly seeking to trade young winger Martin Necas. Necas, coming off his second consecutive 20-goal season at the age of 25, has drawn considerable interest around the league. His potential departure from Carolina could open up numerous possibilities for both the player and the acquiring team.
As these events unfold, it’s clear that NHL teams are strategically maneuvering to optimize their rosters, both for the short term and the future. With the salary cap on the rise and several key players switching teams, the upcoming season promises to be full of excitement and anticipation.