The 2024 NHL offseason is in full swing, and several teams are making significant moves to reshape their rosters. With the Florida Panthers clinching the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers in a thrilling Game 7, the momentum continues as we head into free agency. Here’s an in-depth look at the major transactions and signings that are defining this dynamic period in the league.
Florida Panthers’ Triumph and Strategic Moves
The Florida Panthers are riding high after their remarkable victory in the Stanley Cup Final. Their triumph over the Edmonton Oilers culminated in Game 7, a fitting conclusion to an intense series. Building on this success, the Panthers have secured one of their cornerstone players, Sam Reinhart, with an eight-year, $69 million contract extension. This extension, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million, ensures that Reinhart, who scored the game-winning goal and tallied ten key goals during the 2024 Playoffs, remains a central figure in their quest for future titles.
Key Draft Picks and New Entrants
The San Jose Sharks made headlines by selecting Macklin Celebrini as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. This move signals a pivotal step in their rebuilding process. Celebrini is expected to bring new energy and talent to the Sharks’ roster, heralding a new era for the franchise.
Major Free Agency Signings
Free agency began on Monday at noon ET and has already led to significant shifts in team lineups. The Tampa Bay Lightning have been particularly active, signing Jake Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million deal, translating to a $9 million AAV. This signing followed the acquisition of Guentzel's negotiating rights from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick. Additionally, the Lightning traded defenseman Mikhail Sergachev to the Utah Hockey Club during the 2024 NHL Draft, further remodeling their defense lineup.
New York Islanders and Seattle Kraken Strengthen Their Ranks
Anthony Duclair will bring his scoring prowess to the New York Islanders, signing a four-year contract. Duclair, who split the previous season between the San Jose Sharks and Tampa Bay Lightning, netted 24 goals and has accumulated 303 career points. His experience and scoring ability will be valuable assets to the Islanders.
Over in the northwest, the Seattle Kraken have bolstered their lineup by signing Chandler Stephenson to a seven-year contract with a $6.25 million AAV. Stephenson has consistently tallied at least 50 points in each of the past three seasons, making him a reliable offensive weapon. In addition, the Kraken secured defenseman Brandon Montour on a seven-year, $50 million deal. Montour’s average annual value of $7.14 million reflects his contributions during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he recorded three goals and eight assists.
Reunions and Rekindled Partnerships
The Columbus Blue Jackets have created a buzz by signing Sean Monahan to a five-year contract worth $5.5 million annually. Monahan's move to Columbus reunites him with Johnny Gaudreau, who joined the Blue Jackets in the 2022 offseason. This reunion could reignite the chemistry they shared during their previous tenure together.
Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks have signed 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 add depth and scoring to the Canucks' forward group.
Building Strong Defensive Lines
The Carolina Hurricanes are solidifying their defense by extending Jaccob Slavin's contract for eight years, at a $6.5 million AAV. Slavin compiled 37 points last season and remains a cornerstone on the Hurricanes' blue line.
The Nashville Predators have been proactive too, signing Brady Skjei to a seven-year contract worth $7 million annually. The Predators are also poised to make a splash by bringing in Steven Stamkos on a four-year deal at $8 million per season. With 1,137 career points, Stamkos will bring unparalleled experience and skill to Nashville. Alongside Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault is expected to join the Predators on a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season, further enhancing their offensive capabilities.
Toronto Maple Leafs’ Defensive Reinforcements
Finally, the Toronto Maple Leafs are strengthening their defensive unit with the acquisition of Chris Tanev. Tanev, who was signed to a six-year contract with an AAV of $4.5 million, joins the Maple Leafs after the team acquired his negotiating rights from the Dallas Stars. Tanev posted five points in 19 games during the 2024 season, bringing his veteran presence and defensive reliability to Toronto.
As the 2024 NHL offseason progresses, these strategic moves and signings indicate a robust and competitive season ahead. Each team's maneuvers are setting the stage for exciting developments and thrilling matchups when the puck drops for the new season.