NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NHL Offseason Signings and Roster Moves

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael with a six-year, $40.5 million contract. In Philadelphia, the Flyers have reached an agreement with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year deal worth $26 million as part of their defensive acquisitions. The Flyers also re-signed forward Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract averaging $9.125 million annually. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets avoided arbitration with center Cole Perfetti, agreeing to a five-year, $30 million contract to keep him in the fold. Additionally, the New Jersey Devils have signed forward Anthony Mantha to a two-year deal valued at $9.5 million. The New York Rangers also reached an agreement with restricted free agent defenseman Braden Schneider on a one-year contract.

Team Strategy and Player Commitments

The Buffalo Sabres have brought in veteran NHL executive John Davidson as a senior advisor. In San Jose, Macklin Celebrini, eligible for an extension, indicated he would "100%" consider taking a hometown discount to help the Sharks in contract negotiations. The long-term commitment to Alex Ovechkin has been a cornerstone of the Washington Capitals' strategy for two decades, aiming to keep him in D.C. for his entire career.

League Schedule and Season Outlook

The NHL is set to expand its regular season to 84 games for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign, a move that is expected to intensify existing rivalries as the schedule was released Thursday. The Carolina Hurricanes will raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29, hosting the Florida Panthers to commence the new season.

Front Office Changes and Player Recognition

Steve Yzerman has abruptly stepped down as the general manager of the Detroit Red Wings in a surprising move. In other player news, Macklin Celebrini was also revealed as the next cover athlete for the EA Sports NHL series.