NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves and Contract Updates

The St. Louis Blues have secured forward Connor McMichael with a substantial six-year, $40.5 million contract signed McMichael. In Philadelphia, the Flyers have been busy, agreeing to terms with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year deal worth $26 million agreed to terms and re-signing forward Trevor Zegras to a four-year contract that carries an average annual value of $9.125 million. The Winnipeg Jets have also avoided arbitration with center Cole Perfetti, inking him to a five-year, $30 million agreement agree to deal. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres have brought in veteran NHL executive John Davidson as senior advisor, following his extensive tenure with other franchises hired Davidson.

Season Outlook and Franchise Milestones

The NHL is set to expand its regular season to 84 games for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign released schedule. The Carolina Hurricanes will raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29th when they host the Florida Panthers to commence the season raise banner. In a unique display of team loyalty, Sharks center Macklin Celebrini has indicated he would "100%" consider accepting a hometown discount to help his team financially. The Washington Capitals have also reaffirmed their long-standing commitment to keeping Alex Ovechkin with the organization throughout his career. The New York Rangers have also reached an agreement with restricted free agent defenseman Braden Schneider on a one-year contract, sidestepping a salary arbitration hearing.