NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves and Signings

The St. Louis Blues agreed to terms with forward Connor McMichael on a six-year, $40.5 million contract. In New Jersey, forward Anthony Mantha inked a deal for two years and $9.5 million. The Winnipeg Jets and Cole Perfetti reached an agreement on a five-year, $30 million contract, avoiding arbitration. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers have reportedly re-signed Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract averaging $9.125 million annually. Defenseman Braden Schneider and the New York Rangers came to terms on a one-year agreement before their salary arbitration hearing. The Buffalo Sabres have hired veteran NHL executive John Davidson as senior adviser, with Davidson having previously served as president for the Blues, Blue Jackets, and Rangers.

Front Office Changes and Schedule Updates

Steve Yzerman has as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. The Carolina Hurricanes will raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29, hosting the Florida Panthers to open the season. The NHL has released its 2026-27 regular-season schedule, expanding the campaign from 82 to 84 games.

Player Milestones and Contract Considerations

Macklin Celebrini, at 20 years old, will become the youngest cover athlete in the history of EA Sports' NHL series. Celebrini, eligible for an extension with the Sharks, has indicated he would "100%" consider taking a hometown discount to aid the team's financial flexibility. The Capitals' long-term strategy has focused on keeping Alex Ovechkin in D.C. since his drafting in 2004.