The 2024 NHL offseason has arrived with a flurry of activity as teams across the league endeavor to reshape their rosters and bolster their chances for the upcoming season. Significant trades, impactful free-agent signings, and notable contract extensions have already defined this busy period.
Stanley Cup Triumph and Draft Headlines
The Florida Panthers have emerged as victors of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, narrowly defeating the Edmonton Oilers in a dramatic Game 7. Instrumental in their victory was forward Sam Reinhart, whose game-winning goal in the playoffs capped a remarkable run where he tallied 10 goals. Cementing their commitment to Reinhart, the Panthers signed him to an eight-year, $69 million contract extension, averaging an annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million.
Meanwhile, in the realm of fresh talent, the San Jose Sharks made headlines at the 2024 NHL Draft by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick. This strategic move signifies the Sharks' intent to build a robust future around the highly-touted young player.
Major Free Agency Moves
Free agency kicked off on Monday at noon ET, unleashing a wave of signings. The Tampa Bay Lightning were particularly active, acquiring Jake Guentzel's negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. Subsequently, the Lightning signed Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, which carries an AAV of $9 million. In a notable draft-day trade, the Lightning also sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club.
The New York Islanders made a splash by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair, who split last season between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning, scored 24 goals and has accumulated 303 career points, demonstrating his consistent offensive production.
Chandler Stephenson inked a seven-year deal with the Seattle Kraken, featuring an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson brings reliable performance, having tallied at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. The Kraken also strengthened their defense by signing Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract, with an AAV of $7.14 million. Montour's contribution during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, with three goals and eight assists, underscores his value.
Key Signings Across the League
The Columbus Blue Jackets reunited forward Sean Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau by signing Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually. Gaudreau joined Columbus in the 2022 offseason, and this reunion is expected to rekindle their past on-ice chemistry.
Over in Vancouver, the Canucks secured winger Jake DeBrusk on a seven-year deal with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk posted 40 points in the 2023-24 season, highlighting his steady offensive contributions.
The Carolina Hurricanes locked in defenseman Jaccob Slavin with an eight-year contract extension, valued at $6.5 million per year. Slavin's solid performance, including 37 points last season, makes him a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' blue line.
The Nashville Predators were proactive, signing defenseman Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. Furthermore, reports indicate that the Predators are poised to bring in Steven Stamkos on a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos, with an impressive career tally of 1,137 points, adds veteran leadership and scoring prowess. Additionally, Jonathan Marchessault is expected to join the Predators on a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season.
Strategic Additions
The Toronto Maple Leafs bolstered their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. Acquired from the Dallas Stars, Tanev's solid defensive play is expected to add depth and stability to the Leafs' back end. Tanev posted five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, reflecting his steady defensive contributions.
As the offseason progresses, these strategic moves indicate a league-wide commitment to building competitive and balanced teams. The anticipation for the 2024-2025 NHL season continues to grow as clubs finalize their rosters and prepare to chase hockey's ultimate prize.