NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Transactions and Schedule Updates

The NHL's offseason continues to heat up with significant player signings and a schedule adjustment. The Philadelphia Flyers made waves by agreeing to terms with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year contract worth $26 million. Just days later, the Flyers also re-signed forward Trevor Zegras to a four-year deal with an average annual value of $9.125 million. In Winnipeg, the Jets secured center Cole Perfetti with a five-year, $30 million contract, avoiding salary arbitration. The St. Louis Blues bolstered their lineup by signing forward Connor McMichael to a six-year, $40.5 million deal. Meanwhile, the league announced an expansion to its regular-season schedule, with the 2026-27 campaign featuring 84 games, an increase from the traditional 82.

Championship Celebrations and Front Office Changes

The upcoming NHL season will commence with a celebratory banner raising for the Carolina Hurricanes, who will hoist their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29th before facing the Florida Panthers. In a surprising move, Steve Yzerman as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. This transition comes as the league also sees significant contract extensions, including a massive five-year, $75 million deal for Connor Bedard with the Chicago Blackhawks massive five-year, $75 million contract. The Washington Capitals are also reflecting on their long-term commitment to star player Alex Ovechkin, a relationship that began with his drafting in 2004. Trade grades for recent major swaps are also available for review as GMs continue to shape their rosters.