NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 11:33 AM ET

NHL Player Movement and Contract News

The NHL offseason continues to be a busy one, with several significant player transactions and contract signings reported. Defenseman Simon Nemec inked a five-year deal with the Calgary Flames worth $36.25 million. In Anaheim, restricted free agent defenseman Pavel Mintyukov agreed to a five-year extension totaling $36 million. Meanwhile, veteran forward Claude Giroux is returning to the Ottawa Senators for his 20th NHL season, signing a one-year contract with a $2 million salary.

Arbitration and Offer Sheet Battles

The salary arbitration process is underway for some players. Dallas Stars leading scorer Jason Robertson has filed for arbitration. The Arizona Coyotes matched an offer sheet for forward Barrett Hayton, signing him to a one-year deal worth $4.775 million. Speculation continues regarding high-value contracts, with some observers questioning the $12.5 million per year deal signed by Bowen Byram, suggesting that future deals for players like Cale Makar could be even larger.

Team News and Future Outlooks

In news from the Original Six, Daniel Alfredsson is leaving his role with the Ottawa Senators to join the rival Toronto Maple Leafs as an associate coach. Alex Ovechkin has not committed to retiring after this season, with his wife suggesting he may play for another year or two. The Chicago Blackhawks' rebuild suffered a setback with the news that star rookie Connor Bedard will miss approximately four months due to a shoulder injury Bedard to miss 4 months. The New York Islanders are engaging their fanbase by launching a contest for fans to design the team's third jersey for the 2027-28 season.