NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: June 23, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

NHL Transactions & Personnel Moves

The NHL saw significant player movement and front-office changes over the past three days, highlighted by a blockbuster trade that sent Brady Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers. Tkachuk, formerly the captain of the Ottawa Senators, was acquired by the Panthers in a deal that allowed him to join his brother, Matthew, on the two-time Stanley Cup finalist team. The trade, which also saw the Panthers send forward Mackie Samoskevich to the Seattle Kraken, involved a significant package of draft picks, with Florida sending the No. 25 pick in the upcoming draft back to Ottawa. Tkachuk expressed excitement about the reunion, stating that playing with his brother was a primary motivator for the move and that he "just couldn't believe it".

In other personnel news, the Edmonton Oilers officially named Mike Babcock as their new head coach, bringing back the experienced bench boss who was fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2019. The Oilers also made a significant move to bolster their defense, signing Connor Murphy to a five-year, $20.5 million contract. Additionally, Jason Dickinson was re-signed to a five-year, $20 million deal, securing a defensive-minded center for the team as they prepare for free agency. The New Jersey Devils, meanwhile, traded the rights to pending restricted free agent defenseman Simon Nemec and winger Maxim Tsyplakov to the Calgary Flames in exchange for a pair of first-round draft choices and a second-round pick.

The Islanders have hired former Stanley Cup winner Pascal Dupuis as their director of player development, the team announced Tuesday in a move to bolster their player development staff. The Utah Mammoth also made coaching staff additions, signing coach André Tourigny and assistant Blaine Forsythe to multiyear contracts as they look to build for the future.

League Expansion & Future Outlook

The National Hockey League is reportedly considering expansion into Texas, with sources indicating that Austin and Houston are potential targets for the league's next wave of growth. This development comes as the league continues to explore new markets and opportunities to broaden its reach.

the focus is also turning towards future Hall of Fame classes. While Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour, who recently led his team to a Stanley Cup title, was passed over for the 2026 class, his father, Keith Tkachuk, was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame the day after his sons Brady and Matthew became teammates on the Florida Panthers a significant personal milestone. The league is also anticipating the 2027 Hall of Fame class, with discussions already underway regarding potential candidates as the 2026 class was recently announced.

Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) Investment

The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has secured its first two investors, Detroit-based Ilitch Companies and Toronto-based Kilmer Sports Ventures, as it aims to sustain its rapid growth. This investment marks a significant step for the league, providing financial backing to support its expansion and operational development as it continues to establish itself.

NHL Draft & Player Movement Intel

With the NHL draft set to begin on Friday, speculation is mounting about potential trades and offer sheets. One name frequently mentioned in trade discussions is Robertson, who is reportedly the subject of an offer sheet as teams scramble to solidify their rosters. The Kraken have also been active, agreeing to terms with forward Bobby McMann on a six-year deal to keep him in Seattle. The Panthers, in addition to their trade involving Brady Tkachuk, are also involved in discussions surrounding draft picks and player acquisitions as the draft approaches.