The 2024 NHL offseason is in full swing, and several teams are making significant moves to reshape their rosters. It has been an eventful period marked by noteworthy contract extensions, key trades, and impactful free agent signings that promise to alter the league's competitive landscape.
Florida Panthers Emerge Victorious
The Florida Panthers are riding high after clinching the Stanley Cup in a thrilling Game 7 victory against the Edmonton Oilers. The celebration continues as they make significant roster moves to secure their future. One of the most notable actions is the signing of Sam Reinhart to an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. Reinhart, who played a crucial role in the playoffs by scoring the game-winning goal and tallying ten vital goals, will remain a cornerstone of the Panthers’ lineup with an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million.
Tampa Bay Lightning's Ambitious Moves
The Tampa Bay Lightning have also been active, adding offensive firepower by signing Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, featuring a $9 million AAV. Guentzel's rights were acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes for a 2025 third-round pick. The Lightning's aggressive approach did not stop there; they traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the 2024 NHL Draft, further shaking up their roster.
Significant Signings Across the League
The New York Islanders bolstered their roster by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair had a productive season, scoring 24 goals while splitting time between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning. His career totals now stand at 303 points, including 146 goals and 157 assists, making him a valuable addition to the Islanders.
The Seattle Kraken also made headlines by signing center Chandler Stephenson to a seven-year contract with an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson has consistently performed, tallying at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. Additionally, the Kraken strengthened their defense by securing Brandon Montour on a seven-year, $50 million contract, with an AAV of $7.14 million. Montour was instrumental during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, contributing three goals and eight assists.
The Columbus Blue Jackets made a strategic move by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually, reuniting him with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the team in the 2022 offseason.
In Vancouver, the Canucks added winger Jake DeBrusk on a seven-year deal with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk posted 40 points in the 2023-24 season, making him a solid addition to the Canucks’ offensive lineup.
The Carolina Hurricanes ensured their defensive stalwart, Jaccob Slavin, remains with the team by extending his contract for eight years with an AAV of $6.5 million. Slavin compiled 37 points last season, reinforcing his value to the Hurricanes' blue line.
The Nashville Predators were not to be outdone, signing defenseman Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. The Predators are also making waves with expectations of signing Steven Stamkos to a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos, with an illustrious career tallying 1,137 points, is anticipated to significantly boost the Predators' offense. Additionally, Nashville is expected to bring in Jonathan Marchessault on a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season, further increasing their scoring depth.
Toronto Maple Leafs' Defensive Reinforcement
The Toronto Maple Leafs secured defenseman Chris Tanev on a six-year contract, featuring an AAV of $4.5 million. Toronto acquired Tanev’s negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars, adding a seasoned presence to their defensive corps. Tanev posted five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, highlighting his potential to contribute on the defensive end.
Overall, the flurry of offseason activities promises to set the stage for an intriguing 2024-25 NHL season. Teams are strategically positioning themselves to either maintain their dominance or climb the standings, and the new signings and trades undoubtedly play a crucial role in these efforts.