NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

NHL Offseason Moves and Schedule Updates

The NHL offseason is heating up with several significant player signings and a schedule expansion. The Philadelphia Flyers have been busy, agreeing to terms with defenseman Jamie Drysdale on a four-year contract worth $26 million Flyers agree. They also re-signed forward Trevor Zegras to a four-year deal averaging $9.125 million annually. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets secured center Cole Perfetti with a five-year, $30 million contract. In St. Louis, the Blues signed forward Connor McMichael to a substantial six-year, $40.5 million deal. the league announced its 2026-27 regular-season schedule, expanding the campaign from 82 to 84 games. The Carolina Hurricanes are set to raise their second Stanley Cup championship banner on September 29, hosting the Florida Panthers to commence the season.

Front Office Changes and Player Milestones

Significant front-office news emerged as Steve Yzerman abruptly stepped down as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. On the player front, Connor Bedard's future with the Chicago Blackhawks is secured with a massive five-year, $75 million contract extension, ushering in a new phase for the young star Bedard and Blackhawks. The Washington Capitals' long-term commitment to Alex Ovechkin, who was drafted in 2004, remains a central focus for the organization's strategy.

Broadcast Development

The league is also looking to the future of its broadcast talent. ESPN NHL attended a broadcast training camp in New York, observing the development of potential future analysts from the ranks of former NHL players. This initiative aims to identify and cultivate the next generation of hockey commentators.