NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 8:33 AM ET

Contract News Dominates Offseason Headlines

The NHL offseason is buzzing with significant contract activity, with several teams locking up key players to long-term deals. Defenseman Simon Nemec inked a five-year pact with the Calgary Flames worth $36.25 million. The Anaheim Ducks committed to Pavel Mintyukov for five seasons on a $36 million extension, and the Nashville Predators signed Mavrik Bourque, to a six-year, $33 million contract. In other news, forward Barrett Hayton will remain with the Mammoth after the team matched an offer sheet from the Devils, signing him to a one-year deal worth $4.775 million.

Veteran Presence and Arbitration Cases

Veteran forward Claude Giroux, is returning to the Ottawa Senators for a 20th NHL season, signing a one-year contract with a $2 million salary. Alex Ovechkin, meanwhile, has not committed to retirement, with his wife suggesting he could play one or two more seasons won't commit to this being his last. On the arbitration front, Dallas Stars leading scorer Jason Robertson filed for salary arbitration, setting the stage for a potential contract resolution process.

Prospects and Roster Moves

The Chicago Blackhawks' rebuild has hit another snag with the news that Connor Bedard will miss approximately four months due to a shoulder injury to miss 4 months. In a notable move, former Senators legend Daniel Alfredsson is joining the rival Toronto Maple Leafs as an associate coach leaves to join the rival Maple Leafs. Forward Chase Stillman, has secured a one-year, two-way contract with the Detroit Red Wings, which will pay $850,000 at the NHL level. The Islanders are engaging their fanbase by launching a contest for fans to design the team's new third jersey for the 2027-28 season.