The 2024 NHL offseason is unfolding with significant moves that promise to reshape the competitive landscape for the upcoming season. With teams eagerly bolstering their rosters, there's palpable excitement and anticipation among fans and analysts alike.
Panthers Reign Supreme
In a dramatic conclusion to a thrilling series, the Florida Panthers emerged victorious against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. This triumph marks a historic milestone for the Panthers, solidifying their place in NHL lore.
Building on this momentum, the Panthers swiftly moved to secure key talent. Sam Reinhart, a pivotal player in their playoff success, was rewarded with an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. Reinhart, who tallied 10 goals during the playoffs, including the decisive game-winner, will now don the Panthers' jersey for years to come with an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million.
Draft Day Highlights
The San Jose Sharks made headlines by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. The young talent is expected to make an immediate impact, as the Sharks look to reclaim their status as perennial contenders.
Free Agency Frenzy
As the clock struck noon ET on Monday, the frenzy of NHL free agency began in earnest. Teams wasted no time in making impactful signings.
The Tampa Bay Lightning secured the services of Jake Guentzel with a seven-year, $63 million deal, translating to a $9 million AAV. The Lightning acquired Guentzel's negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing their offensive firepower.
In a significant trade move during the 2024 NHL Draft, the Lightning sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club, continuing to make strategic adjustments to their lineup.
Islanders' New Addition
The New York Islanders also made waves by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair, who showcased his scoring prowess with 24 goals last season, split his time between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning. With 303 career points, including 146 goals and 157 assists, Duclair adds a potent offensive dimension to the Islanders' attack.
Kraken Strengthen Their Core
The Seattle Kraken made substantial investments to fortify their roster. Chandler Stephenson agreed to a seven-year contract with a $6.25 million AAV. Known for his consistent production, Stephenson has posted at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons.
Additionally, the Kraken signed defenseman Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract, with an AAV of $7.14 million. Montour was instrumental during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing three goals and eight assists.
Columbus Blue Jackets Reunite Duo
The Columbus Blue Jackets signed Sean Monahan to a five-year deal worth $5.5 million annually. This signing reunites Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets in the 2022 offseason, rekindling a partnership that promises to bring dynamic offensive synergy.
Canucks' Strategic Sign
The Vancouver Canucks strategically signed winger Jake DeBrusk to a seven-year contract, paying him $5.5 million annually. DeBrusk, who posted 40 points in the 2023-24 season, is expected to be a critical component of the Canucks' forward line.
Hurricanes and Predators Bolster Defense
The Carolina Hurricanes extended Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years, with an AAV of $6.5 million. Coming off a season where he compiled 37 points, Slavin remains a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' defensive corps.
Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators bolstered their blue line by signing Brady Skjei to a seven-year deal worth $7 million annually. Further enhancing their offensive options, the Predators are poised to notably bring in Steven Stamkos on a four-year contract valued at $8 million per season. Stamkos, with an impressive career tally of 1,137 points, is set to be a game-changer for Nashville. The Predators are also eyeing Jonathan Marchessault, who is expected to sign a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season.
Maple Leafs Solidify Defense
The Toronto Maple Leafs took significant steps to solidify their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. Tanev, whose negotiating rights were acquired from the Dallas Stars, posted five points in 19 games during the 2024 season.
As the NHL offseason continues to unfold, teams remain active in their quest to build rosters capable of hoisting the Stanley Cup next season. With bold moves and strategic signings, the stage is set for an exhilarating 2024-25 NHL campaign.