The NHL offseason is heating up as teams across the league are making decisive moves to reshape their rosters and prepare for the upcoming 2024-25 season. With the salary cap set to rise to $88 million, general managers are seizing the opportunity to clear space, acquire talent, and trade assets in a flurry of activity that signals a new era for several franchises.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Significant Rebuild
The Tampa Bay Lightning have been particularly active this offseason. In a surprising move, they traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for multiple players and draft picks. This trade suggests that the Lightning are not only looking to manage their salary cap but also bolster their roster depth through incoming assets.
The Lightning's aggressive strategy continued with the acquisition of star winger Jake Guentzel. Reports indicate that they have signed Guentzel to a seven-year contract, signaling their long-term commitment to incorporating his offensive prowess into their game plan. Additionally, Tampa Bay has offloaded forward Tanner Jeannot to the Los Angeles Kings in return for a fourth-round and a second-round pick, further emphasizing their focus on future growth through the draft.
Ottawa Senators Shake Things Up
The Ottawa Senators are also making headlines, having traded defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the Washington Capitals. In return, the Senators received defenseman Nick Jensen and a 2026 third-round pick. Chychrun, who had spent the last two seasons with Ottawa after being acquired from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2023 trade deadline, will now lend his skills to the Capitals' defensive lines.
New Jersey Devils: Active on the Market
Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils have been notably busy. They traded defenseman John Marino to the Utah Hockey Club for several draft picks, indicating a focus on building for the future. Additionally, the Devils moved Jonathan Kovacevic to Montreal.
In a significant exchange with the Vegas Golden Knights, the Devils acquired forward Alexander Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid in exchange for forward Paul Cotter. This deal addresses multiple needs for both teams and provides fresh opportunities for the players involved.
Western Conference Moves
The Vegas Golden Knights also sent goaltender Logan Thompson to the Washington Capitals for a pair of third-round picks, further stirring the pot in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres have acquired forward Beck Malenstyn from the Capitals, bolstering their forward depth.
Significant Trades Across the League
In another significant move, the St. Louis Blues traded forward Kevin Hayes to the Pittsburgh Penguins along with a second-round pick. The Blues also acquired forward Alex Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round pick, demonstrating a keen eye for talent and future potential.
Watchlist: Potential Future Moves
League insiders are closely watching several potential moves that could happen in the near future. Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, along with Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson and Ducks center Trevor Zegras, are among the players potentially on the move. Their transfers could significantly impact their respective teams, leading to a shakeup in team dynamics and strategies.
Carolina Hurricanes: Martin Necas on the Block
Rounding out the flurry of activity, the Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly looking to trade young winger Martin Necas. Coming off his second straight 20-goal season at just 25 years of age, Necas is a valuable asset that could attract substantial interest from teams looking to add a proven scorer to their roster.
As the offseason progresses, the moves made by these teams will undoubtedly shape the competitive landscape of the NHL. The strategic acquisitions, player trades, and contract signings are all critical components in the ongoing preparation for what promises to be an electrifying 2024-25 season.