The 2024 NHL offseason is proving to be one of the most dynamic in recent memory, as teams across the league are making bold moves to reshape their rosters and position themselves for success in the upcoming season.
The Florida Panthers: Champions and Big Spenders
Following their thrilling victory in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers, the Florida Panthers have wasted no time in securing their future. The franchise has rewarded forward Sam Reinhart with an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. Reinhart, who played a pivotal role in the playoffs, scoring the game-winning goal and amassing 10 goals overall, now boasts an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million on his new deal.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Strategic Acquisition and Trades
The Tampa Bay Lightning have equally been active, signing forward Jake Guentzel to a substantial seven-year, $63 million contract, which carries a $9 million AAV. This signing comes after the Lightning acquired Guentzel's negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. Furthermore, in a significant trade, Tampa Bay sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the 2024 NHL Draft.
San Jose Sharks and Top Draft Pick
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks made headlines by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. The franchise is hopeful that Celebrini will develop into a cornerstone player for years to come.
Seattle Kraken's Strategic Reinforcements
The Seattle Kraken have also been busy in the market. They secured forward Chandler Stephenson to a seven-year contract with an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson's consistent performance, having recorded at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons, makes him a valuable addition. Additionally, the Kraken fortified their defense by signing Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract, which averages out to $7.14 million annually. Montour was instrumental during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing three goals and eight assists.
New York Islanders and Anthony Duclair
The New York Islanders signed forward Anthony Duclair to a four-year deal. Duclair, who split his time between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning last season, recorded 24 goals and now brings his career totals to 303 points, with 146 goals and 157 assists.
Strong Moves by the Columbus Blue Jackets
In Ohio, the Columbus Blue Jackets have reunited Sean Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the team in the 2022 offseason. Monahan's new five-year contract bears an annual value of $5.5 million, signaling the Blue Jackets' commitment to bolstering their offensive depth.
Vancouver Canucks and New Talent
The Vancouver Canucks have locked in winger Jake DeBrusk on a seven-year deal with an AAV of $5.5 million. DeBrusk posted 40 points in the 2023-24 season and is expected to augment the Canucks' forward lineup significantly.
Carolina Hurricanes Secure Jaccob Slavin
The Carolina Hurricanes ensured the extension of their standout defenseman, Jaccob Slavin, with an eight-year contract carrying an annual value of $6.5 million. Slavin, who totaled 37 points last season, continues to be a crucial part of the Hurricanes' blue line.
Nashville Predators' Ambitious Plans
The Nashville Predators are making waves with multiple high-profile signings. Defenseman Brady Skjei has agreed to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. Furthermore, the Predators are poised to bring in veteran star Steven Stamkos on a four-year deal valued at $8 million per season. Stamkos, who has amassed an impressive 1,137 career points, will significantly boost Nashville's offensive capabilities. Additionally, the team is expected to sign Jonathan Marchessault to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually.
Toronto Maple Leafs Bolster Defense
Closing out the list of notable moves, the Toronto Maple Leafs have solidified their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. Tanev was acquired from the Dallas Stars and managed to post five points in 19 games during the 2024 season.
As free agency officially began on Monday at noon ET, it is clear that NHL teams are making bold and strategic moves to improve their rosters for the upcoming season. Fans can eagerly anticipate how these off-season decisions will play out on the ice.