As the NHL offseason shifts into high gear, franchises across the league are making significant roster adjustments, exploring trade opportunities, and positioning themselves strategically under the new salary cap. With the cap set to rise to $88 million for the 2024-25 season, several teams have already started laying the groundwork for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.
Tampa Bay Lightning's Strategic Moves
The Tampa Bay Lightning have been particularly active, making bold moves to reshape their roster. Foremost among these is the trade of defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club. In exchange, the Lightning bolstered their future with multiple players and draft picks, signaling their intention to build a sustainable foundation.
In a move that has fans buzzing, Tampa Bay acquired the rights to star winger Jake Guentzel. Reports indicate that the Lightning have inked Guentzel to a seven-year contract, ensuring that the high-scoring winger will be a central figure in their quest for future success. Additionally, the Lightning traded forward Tanner Jeannot to the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a fourth-round and a second-round pick, further supplementing their draft capital.
Major Trades Across the League
The Ottawa Senators also made headlines by trading defenseman Jakob Chychrun to the Washington Capitals. In return, the Senators received defenseman Nick Jensen and a 2026 third-round pick. Chychrun, who had spent the last two seasons with Ottawa after being acquired from the Arizona Coyotes at the 2023 trade deadline, will now bring his robust defensive skills to the Capitals.
Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils have been busy reshaping their defense. John Marino was traded to the Utah Hockey Club for several draft picks, while Jonathan Kovacevic was moved to Montreal. In a high-profile exchange, the Devils acquired forward Paul Cotter from the Vegas Golden Knights in return for forward Alexander Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid.
In another notable trade, the Capitals acquired Logan Thompson from the Golden Knights by parting ways with two third-round picks. This move underscores Washington's commitment to reinforcing their goaltending depth.
Other Key Transactions
The Buffalo Sabres strengthened their roster by acquiring forward Beck Malenstyn from the Washington Capitals. The St. Louis Blues, not to be outdone, traded forward Kevin Hayes to the Pittsburgh Penguins, along with a second-round pick. In an additional move, the Blues secured forward Alex Texier from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round pick, adding more versatility to their lineup.
Speculation and Potential Moves
As the offseason unfolds, several other potential moves are being closely monitored by league insiders. Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers and Anaheim Ducks duo John Gibson (goaltender) and Trevor Zegras (center) are among the high-profile names rumored to be on the move. The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly looking to trade young winger Martin Necas, who has impressed with two consecutive 20-goal seasons at the age of 25.
With the NHL salary cap increasing, teams have more flexibility to make strategic moves, whether they are rebuilding, reloading, or seeking that final piece to propel them to a championship. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these trades and acquisitions play out as teams gear up for the 2024-25 season.