The 2024 NHL offseason is already proving to be one of the most dynamic periods in recent memory, with teams across the league making significant moves to bolster their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season. The Florida Panthers highlight this flurry of activity, emerging triumphant in the Stanley Cup Final by defeating the Edmonton Oilers in a heart-stopping Game 7.
Key Draft Picks and Free Agency Moves
The excitement kicked off with the San Jose Sharks selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. As teams continued to fine-tune their line-ups, free agency commenced officially at noon ET, sparking a series of significant signings.
The Florida Panthers secured a crucial piece of their future, signing Sam Reinhart to an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. Reinhart, who played a vital role in the Panthers' playoff success by scoring the game-winning goal and tallying 10 goals throughout the postseason, now carries an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million under his new contract.
Tampa Bay Lightning Make Strategic Moves
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning made headlines by signing Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, with a $9 million AAV. Guentzel’s signing follows Tampa Bay's acquisition of his negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. Additionally, Tampa Bay made a bold decision during the draft, trading defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club, indicating a strategic shift for the storied franchise.
Islanders and Kraken Strengthen Rosters
The New York Islanders also made their mark by signing Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair showcased his scoring prowess last season, netting 24 goals while splitting his time between the San Jose Sharks and the Tampa Bay Lightning. With 303 career points, including 146 goals and 157 assists, Duclair adds a significant boost to the Islanders' offensive lineup.
The Seattle Kraken also made major investments, securing Chandler Stephenson with a seven-year contract that holds a $6.25 million AAV. Stephenson's consistency is demonstrated by his tallying at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. Furthermore, the Kraken signed defenseman Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract, valued at an AAV of $7.14 million. Montour's performance during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he contributed three goals and eight assists, underscores the Kraken's strategic acquisition.
Blue Jackets Reunite Dynamic Duo
The Columbus Blue Jackets aimed to rekindle past chemistry by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually. Monahan is set to reunite with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets back in the 2022 offseason, offering fans a glimpse of their past dynamic in action again.
Other Significant Signings
The Vancouver Canucks also made a notable addition, signing winger Jake DeBrusk to a seven-year deal with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk, who posted 40 points in the 2023-24 season, is expected to act as a pivotal offensive contributor for the Canucks.
Looking to bolster their defense, the Carolina Hurricanes extended Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years with a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin, who compiled 37 points last season, remains a cornerstone of Carolina's defense moving forward.
The Nashville Predators have been particularly active, signing Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. More buzz surrounds Nashville as they are reportedly poised to bring in veteran forward Steven Stamkos. Stamkos is expected to ink a four-year deal at $8 million per season, adding his 1,137 career points to the Predators' roster. In addition to Stamkos, Nashville is also anticipated to add Jonathan Marchessault, expected to sign a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season.
The Toronto Maple Leafs did not lag behind, as they strengthened their defense by signing Chris Tanev to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million. Toronto acquired Tanev's negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars, and they are betting on his defensive capabilities, despite him posting five points in 19 games during the 2024 season.
As teams continue to navigate the post-draft and free agency frenzy, the 2024 NHL offseason is shaping up to be a critical period for franchises to enhance their rosters and set a competitive tone for the upcoming season. With big names like Stamkos and Marchessault expected to finalize their moves shortly, fans have every reason to be excited about the new dynamics and rivalries that will unfold on the ice.