The 2024 NHL offseason is creating waves across the league, as teams strive to bolster their rosters with strategic signings and trades. Fresh off their thrilling Stanley Cup victory, the Florida Panthers are a prime example of a team not resting on its laurels.
Florida Panthers Make Key Moves
Following their triumph over the Edmonton Oilers in a nail-biting Game 7, the Panthers have secured a long-term commitment from Sam Reinhart. The forward has signed an eight-year, $69 million contract extension, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million. Reinhart was instrumental in their playoff success, notably scoring the game-winning goal in the 2024 Playoffs and tallying an impressive 10 goals throughout their run. This extension ensures that the Panthers retain a crucial part of their championship roster.
Tampa Bay Lightning Shake Things Up
Not far behind in making significant offseason moves are the Tampa Bay Lightning. They have signed Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, which translates to a $9 million AAV. Guentzel’s negotiating rights were acquired from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick, demonstrating the Lightning's commitment to adding high-caliber talent. In addition to this, the Lightning traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the 2024 NHL Draft, marking a substantial shift in their defensive lineup.
New Additions Across the League
Several other teams have also been active. The New York Islanders signed Anthony Duclair to a four-year contract. Duclair, who split time between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning last season, netted 24 goals and has accumulated 303 career points. His offensive prowess will be a valuable asset for the Islanders.
Further west, the Seattle Kraken managed to secure Chandler Stephenson for seven years at an AAV of $6.25 million. Stephenson has been a consistent performer, logging at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons. Additionally, the Kraken fortified their blue line by signing defenseman Brandon Montour to a seven-year, $50 million contract. Montour's postseason performance, featuring three goals and eight assists, underlines his ability to contribute in high-stakes scenarios.
Veteran Leadership and Reunions
The Columbus Blue Jackets have reunited Sean Monahan with Johnny Gaudreau, reinforcing their forward lines. Monahan’s five-year deal at $5.5 million per season arrives two years after Gaudreau's move to Columbus. This reunion is poised to enhance the Blue Jackets' offensive chemistry and dynamics.
In a move that highlights their ambition, the Nashville Predators are preparing to sign veteran star Steven Stamkos to a four-year deal worth $8 million annually. Stamkos, with a career total of 1,137 points, is sure to bring both experience and skill. The Predators are also on the verge of adding Jonathan Marchessault on a five-year deal valued at $5.5 million per season, further strengthening their offensive lineup.
Strategic Signings and Extensions
The Vancouver Canucks have focused on enhancing their roster as well, signing winger Jake DeBrusk to a seven-year contract with an annual value of $5.5 million. DeBrusk's 40 points in the previous season indicate his steady contribution on the ice.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes ensured they retained their defensive cornerstone by extending Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years at a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin's 37 points last season underscore his dual-threat ability, providing both defensive stability and offensive support.
In another significant defensive signing, the Toronto Maple Leafs inked Chris Tanev to a six-year deal averaging $4.5 million per season. The Leafs secured Tanev's negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars, banking on his seasoned defensive skills to fortify their back end. Tanev recorded five points in just 19 games during the 2024 season, highlighting his potential impact when fully healthy.
The Nashville Predators further bolstered their defense by signing Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. These strategic acquisitions align with the Predators' evident aspiration to challenge for top honors in the upcoming season.
As the 2024 offseason unfolds, these transactions underscore the proactive strategies of NHL teams determined to enhance their competitiveness. With several marquee signings and critical trades already completed, the stage is set for an exhilarating 2024-25 NHL season.