As the NHL offseason kicks into high gear, franchises across the league are making significant moves to reshape their rosters, clear salary cap space, and set the foundation for the 2024-25 season. This flurry of activity comes as the NHL salary cap is set to rise to $88 million, providing teams with a much-needed financial cushion to maneuver strategically.
Lightning Strikes with Bold Moves
The Tampa Bay Lightning, perennial contenders in recent seasons, have not been shy about shaking things up. In a blockbuster trade, they sent defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club, receiving multiple players and draft picks in return. This move is clearly part of a broader strategy, as they also secured the rights to star winger Jake Guentzel.
The Lightning reportedly wasted no time in locking down Guentzel's commitment, signing him to a seven-year contract. This acquisition of Guentzel is expected to bolster the Lightning's offensive depth significantly.
Moreover, Tampa Bay continued their roster adjustments by trading forward Tanner Jeannot to the Los Angeles Kings. In exchange, the Lightning received a fourth-round and a second-round pick, adding valuable future assets while reworking their current roster.
Senators and Capitals in Notable Trade
Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators and the Washington Capitals completed a notable trade of their own. Ottawa shipped defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the Capitals, receiving defenseman Nick Jensen and a 2026 third-round pick in return. Chychrun had spent the last two seasons with the Senators, having been acquired from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2023 trade deadline.
Devils Active in the Trade Market
The New Jersey Devils have also been active participants in the offseason trading frenzy. They sent defenseman John Marino to the Utah Hockey Club, acquiring several draft picks in the deal. Additionally, the Devils moved Jonathan Kovacevic to Montreal, continuing their strategic reshuffling.
In another trade, the Devils acquired forward Alexander Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid from the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for forward Paul Cotter. This deal reflects New Jersey’s focus on strengthening their goaltending and adding young, promising talent to their roster.
Capitals and Sabres Strengthen Rosters
The Washington Capitals did not stop with Chychrun. They also acquired goaltender Logan Thompson from the Vegas Golden Knights, giving up a pair of third-round picks in return. This move should enhance the Capitals' options between the pipes.
On another front, the Buffalo Sabres reinforced their forward group by acquiring Beck Malenstyn from the Capitals, aiming to add depth and versatility to their attacking lines.
Blues and Penguins Exchange Talent
The St. Louis Blues made headlines by trading forward Kevin Hayes and a second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In exchange, they received forward Alex Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round pick. These transactions underscore the Blues' intention to revamp their forward unit and continue their competitive trajectory.
Potential Moves to Watch
As the offseason progresses, league insiders are keeping a close eye on several potential moves involving notable players. Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson, and Ducks' center Trevor Zegras are some of the big names reportedly being watched. These players could pivot the dynamics for any team that successfully acquires them.
Another intriguing storyline involves the Carolina Hurricanes, who are reportedly looking to trade young winger Martin Necas. The 25-year-old is coming off his second consecutive 20-goal season, making him an attractive asset for teams seeking to infuse youthful energy and proven scoring ability into their lineups.
With the offseason in full swing and the salary cap providing additional flexibility, NHL teams are aggressively pursuing trades and signings to position themselves competitively for the 2024-25 season. As these moves unfold, the landscape of the league continues to evolve, promising an exciting lead-up to the new season.