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NHL Hockey 3 Days

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14 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: July 4, 2026, 8:32 PM ET

NHL Offseason Moves & Signings

The NHL offseason continued its frenetic pace with significant player movement and contract agreements across the league. Defenseman Darnell Nurse was traded to the Sharks by the Edmonton Oilers in a move that reshapes their blue line. Meanwhile, veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky inked a three-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs sources confirm. The Maple Leafs also secured their future by signing 2026 No. 1 overall draft pick Gavin McKenna to a three-year entry-level contract on Friday.

In a move to bolster their defense, the Minnesota Wild acquired forward Blake Coleman and defenseman Olli Maatta from the Calgary Flames in a trade. The Capitals, signaling their intent to retain their captain, confirmed that they have both cap space and a roster spot available for Alex Ovechkin, despite earlier additions GM Patrick stated. Ovechkin’s return was further hinted at by a social media video, but the team had been actively preparing for his potential comeback well before that as reported.

The Los Angeles Kings continued their busy offseason by adding forward Erik Haula on a two-year contract and re-signing forward Liam Laughton after earlier signings. In a notable development, the New Jersey Devils submitted an offer sheet to Utah Mammoth forward Barrett Hayton, offering the restricted free agent a deal worth $4.78M.

Player Commitments and Contract News

Several established NHL players publicly committed to their current teams, quelling trade speculation. Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski declared his intention to stay with the Columbus Blue Jackets, stating he is "aligned" with the team's general manager and wants to remain with the club he stated Wednesday. The Tampa Bay Lightning also made a significant defensive addition, signing coveted free agent John Carlson to a two-year deal after Werenski's report.

Veteran forward Jamie Benn will return for his 18th season with the Dallas Stars, committing to the only franchise he has played for in his NHL career as captain. Cup champion Frederik Andersen, has agreed to a one-year deal with the Oilers, providing veteran goaltending depth after a strong playoff run.

In a surprising development, the Philadelphia Flyers signed Ducks center Leo Carlsson to a record-setting five-year, $90 million offer sheet, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL, though his future team remains uncertain CBS Sports reports.

Front Office Changes

The New York Rangers saw a significant shift in their front office leadership. Executive Chairman of MSG Sports, James Dolan, has handed over the day-to-day operations of the Rangers to his 32-year-old son, Quentin Dolan the team announced Friday. This change in management structure marks a new chapter for the storied franchise.