NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves and Signings

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael with a six-year, $40.5 million contract. In another significant signing, the New Jersey Devils have inked forward Anthony Mantha to a two-year deal worth $9.5 million. The Philadelphia Flyers are reportedly re-signing Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract with an average annual value of $9.125 million. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets and Cole Perfetti have agreed to a five-year, $30 million contract, avoiding arbitration agree to deal. Defenseman Braden Schneider and the New York Rangers have also reached an agreement on a one-year contract, bypassing a salary arbitration hearing. The Buffalo Sabres have added veteran NHL executive John Davidson as a senior adviser hired by Sabres.

Front Office Changes and Schedule News

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

Player Milestones and Contract Discussions

Macklin Celebrini, at age, is set to become the youngest cover athlete for EA Sports' NHL series youngest on cover. Celebrini, who is eligible for an extension with the Sharks, has indicated he would "100%" consider taking a hometown discount to help the team. The Capitals organization has focused on keeping Alex Ovechkin in Washington since drafting him in 2004. The league's offseason trade and free agency periods are active, with grades being assigned to recent major swaps and signings.