NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NHL Player Signings and Trades

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael with a six-year, $40.5 million contract extension. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils have inked forward Anthony Mantha to a two-year deal worth $9.5 million. In another significant move, the Winnipeg Jets and center Cole Perfetti reached an agreement on a five-year, $30 million contract, avoiding arbitration. Defenseman Braden Schneider, also agreed to a one-year contract with the New York Rangers just before a scheduled arbitration hearing. The Philadelphia Flyers are reportedly re-signing Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract, carrying an average annual value of $9.125 million.

Front Office Changes and League News

Steve Yzerman has abruptly stepped down as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. The NHL has also released its 2026-27 regular-season schedule, which will feature an expanded 84-game campaign, an increase from the previous 82 games expands campaign. The Carolina Hurricanes are set to raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29 when they host the Florida Panthers to open the season.

Player Milestones and Contract Considerations

Macklin Celebrini, at 20 years old, is set to become the youngest player ever to grace the cover of EA Sports' NHL series youngest on cover. Celebrini, who is eligible for an extension with the San Jose Sharks, has indicated he would be open to taking a hometown discount to help the team financially. The article also touches on the Sharks' efforts to retain their young star and his potential contract talks. Veteran NHL executive John Davidson has been hired by the Buffalo Sabres as a senior advisor hired by Sabres. The Washington Capitals' long-term strategy to keep Alex Ovechkin with the team since his 2004 draft is also highlighted. Additionally, the offseason trade season is in full swing, with grades being assigned to various significant player swaps around the league and NHL free.