NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves & Contract News

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael on a significant six-year agreement worth $40.5 million. In Philadelphia, the Flyers are active, agreeing to terms with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year, $26 million contract agreed to terms with Drysdale on 4-year, $26M deal. The Flyers also re-signed center Trevor Zegras to a four-year deal carrying an average annual value of $9.125 million. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets avoided arbitration with center Cole Perfetti, agreeing to a five-year, $30 million contract. The New Jersey Devils have signed forward Anthony Mantha to a two-year deal valued at $9.5 million, and the Buffalo Sabres have brought in veteran executive John Davidson as senior advisor. The New York Rangers also avoided arbitration, reaching a one-year agreement with restricted free agent defenseman Braden Schneider.

League Schedule & Player Focus

The NHL is set to expand its regular season to 84 games for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign, a move that could intensify existing rivalries. Sharks center Macklin Celebrini has indicated a willingness to consider a hometown discount on his upcoming contract extension to benefit the team. Celebrini, who is also the new cover athlete for the EA Sports NHL series, discussed his contract talks and Sidney Crosby. The veteran presence of Alex Ovechkin has been a cornerstone for the Washington Capitals over the past two decades, with the organization prioritizing his long-term commitment to D.C. spent past.

Championship & Front Office Changes

The Carolina Hurricanes will raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29 when they host the Florida Panthers to open the new NHL season. In a surprising development, Steve Yzerman has abruptly stepped down from his role as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings.