NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Signings & Transactions

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael on a six-year, $40.5 million contract. In Philadelphia, the Flyers have been active, agreeing to terms with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year deal worth $26 million and re-signing forward Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract with an average annual value of $9.125 million as announced Wednesday. The Winnipeg Jets avoided salary arbitration by reaching a five-year, $30 million agreement. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils have signed forward Anthony Mantha to a two-year contract valued at $9.5 million as confirmed Wednesday. The New York Rangers have also moved to avoid arbitration, agreeing to a one-year contract with restricted free agent defenseman Braden Schneider.

Team Front Office & Schedule News

The Buffalo Sabres have hired veteran NHL executive John Davidson as senior advisor, following his 18 seasons as president for the Blues, Blue Jackets, and Rangers according to reports. In a surprising move, Steve Yzerman has abruptly stepped down as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings as of Wednesday. The NHL has released its 2026-27 regular-season schedule, which will feature an expansion to 84 games for all teams this upcoming campaign. The Carolina Hurricanes are set to raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29, hosting the Florida Panthers to officially open the season as announced.

Player Contract Discussions & Future Outlook

Sharks center Macklin Celebrini, who is eligible for an extension this offseason, has indicated he would "100%" consider taking a hometown discount to aid the team's financial flexibility. Celebrini was also revealed as the next cover athlete for the EA Sports NHL series this year. The Washington Capitals have maintained a long-term commitment to keeping Alex Ovechkin in D.C. for his entire career, dating back to his draft in 2004.