The 2024 NHL offseason is underway, and several teams are vigorously reshaping their rosters in preparation for the upcoming season. The Florida Panthers have captured the spotlight by claiming the Stanley Cup Final in a nail-biting Game 7 against the Edmonton Oilers. This achievement has set the stage for a series of strategic moves across the league.
Significant Draft and Contract Moves
The San Jose Sharks made headlines by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. This move signals the Sharks' commitment to rebuilding and making a strong push in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, the Panthers have cemented their core by signing Sam Reinhart to an eight-year, $69 million contract extension, with an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million. Reinhart, a crucial player in the Panthers' playoff run, tallied 10 goals, including the game-winner in the 2024 Playoffs.
Adding to the flurry of signings, the Tampa Bay Lightning secured Jake Guentzel on a seven-year, $63 million deal, which carries an AAV of $9 million. Guentzel's rights were acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. The Lightning also made a strategic trade, sending defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the draft, showcasing their drive to balance and strengthen their roster.
Trades and Extensions Around the League
The New York Islanders have bolstered their forward line with the acquisition of Anthony Duclair on a four-year contract. Duclair, who split last season between the Sharks and Lightning, scored 24 goals and has accumulated 303 career points. On the West Coast, Chandler Stephenson has agreed to a seven-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, valued at an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson has consistently tallied at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons, making him a significant addition to the Kraken's lineup.
In addition, the Seattle Kraken made a strong defensive move by signing Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract. Montour, who contributed three goals and eight assists during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, brings stability and experience to Seattle's defense.
Strategic Signings
The Columbus Blue Jackets have also made headlines by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually. Monahan is set to reunite with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined Columbus in the 2022 offseason. This reunion promises to bring a dynamic offensive presence to the Blue Jackets.
The Vancouver Canucks have secured 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 and will be a key player in the Canucks' offensive strategies. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes have extended Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years with a $6.5 million AAV after a solid 37-point season.
Adding Veteran Talent
The Nashville Predators are making quite an impression this offseason. Alongside the signing of Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually, they are poised to bring in veteran talent with expectations of signing Steven Stamkos to a four-year deal at $8 million per season. Stamkos, who has amassed an impressive 1,137 points in his career, will add experience and scoring ability to the Predators' roster. Additionally, Jonathan Marchessault is expected to join Nashville on a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have not been idle either. They signed defenseman Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million, further strengthening their blue line. Tanev was acquired from the Dallas Stars and recorded five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, highlighting his defensive capabilities and potential for the Leafs.
As the NHL offseason progresses, teams are making decisive moves to address their needs and build formidable rosters. The strategic signings and trades reflect a dynamic period in the league, with every team striving for success in the upcoming season. With numerous high-profile deals already completed, fans can anticipate an exciting and competitive 2024-25 NHL season.