NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves and Signings

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

Front Office Changes and Schedule News

In a surprising development, Steve Yzerman has stepped down as the general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. The NHL season will officially commence on September 29th when the Carolina Hurricanes will raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner before hosting the Florida Panthers. The league also released its schedule for the 2026-27 season, which will feature an expanded 84-game campaign, increasing the intensity of existing rivalries.

Player Milestones and Contract Considerations

Young star Macklin Celebrini, at just 20 years old, will be featured as the youngest cover athlete ever for EA Sports' NHL series. Celebrini, eligible for an extension with the San Jose Sharks, has indicated he is open to taking a hometown discount to aid the team. The Capitals' long-term strategy has been focused on retaining Alex Ovechkin since his drafting in 2004. Veteran executive John Davidson has been hired by the Buffalo Sabres as a senior advisor. The league's free agency period is underway, with GM trade grades available for recent major swaps being issued.