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NHL Free Agency 2025: Toughest Decisions for Every Team

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

NHL Free Agency 2025: Toughest Off-Season Decisions for Each Team

Table of Contents

With the 2025 NHL Draft concluded, teams are now laser-focused on the upcoming free agency period, set to begin on July 1. general managers across the league face pivotal decisions that could reshape their rosters and impact their competitiveness for the upcoming season. From potentially overpaying for star talent to strategically allocating cap space, the stakes are high as teams navigate the complexities of the free agent market.

Key Free Agency Decisions by Team

here’s a breakdown of the most pressing decisions facing each of the 32 NHL teams as they head into free agency:

Anaheim Ducks: The Marner Question

With a ample $38 million in cap space, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek could make a splash by pursuing a high-profile free agent like Mitch Marner. However, the Ducks may need to overpay to entice a top-tier player to join their rebuilding team. Is Verbeek willing to commit $14 million annually to land a potential 100-point scorer?

Boston Bruins: Big Splash or Targeted Approach?

While Mitch Marner could address multiple needs for the Bruins, his acquisition would likely consume a significant portion of their available cap space. A more prudent approach might involve pursuing several less expensive, targeted signings to bolster their roster.

Buffalo Sabres: The Byram Trade Dilemma

Sabres GM kevyn Adams is open to trading defenseman Bowen Byram, a restricted free agent coming off a career year. If the trade market doesn’t yield a satisfactory return, the Sabres will look to re-sign him, recognizing his importance to their blue line.

Calgary Flames: andersson’s Trade Value

Although not a free agent this year, Rasmus Andersson represents Calgary’s most valuable trade asset. Teams may view Andersson as an attractive alternative to the available free agent defensemen,potentially sparking a trade.

Carolina Hurricanes: Patience vs. Immediate Action

Given the perceived weakness of this year’s free agent class, the Hurricanes, flush with cap space, might be wise to exercise patience. waiting for potential big names to become available next summer or exploring the trade market could be their best course of action.

Chicago Blackhawks: Balancing Present and Future

The Blackhawks possess ample cap space and could easily outbid othre teams for free agents.However, they must remain mindful of future contracts for young stars like connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, seeking a balance between immediate advancement and long-term financial flexibility.

Colorado Avalanche: Depth vs. Star Power

With $9 million in cap space after trading Charlie Coyle, the Avalanche face a choice: pursue a top-tier player or spread the money across several solid depth forwards to strengthen their bottom six.

Columbus Blue Jackets: Reshaping the Defense

The Blue Jackets have two prominent UFA defensemen in Ivan Provorov and Dante Fabbro. Talks have gone better with Fabbro than Provorov, but neither has signed, giving GM Don Waddell a bit of stress heading into July 1. He’d like to reshape his defense – but signing Provorov and Fabbro doesn’t represent a change. And letting them walk is a huge risk if he can’t replace them.

Dallas Stars: Robertson’s Future

The Stars have already made tough decisions on keeping Matt Duchene and jettisoning Mason Marchment. But if they wont to make a run at Mitch Marner or another free agent, they might have to move 25-year-old star Jason Robertson to do it. it’s still a long shot to happen, but Robertson is due a massive raise next summer, so it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

Detroit Red Wings: Drawing the Line on Overpayments

Detroit has lingered outside the playoffs for long enough now that it’s not exactly a destination. That may take the team out of the running for some top names. at that point, Steve Yzerman has to decide where the line is to just walk away.That’s much easier said than done for a team that wants to improve, but the Red Wings have been burned on overpayments to middle-of-the-lineup players in recent years.

Edmonton Oilers: Re-Signing UFA wingers

The oilers have retained Trent Frederic on an eight-year contract, leaving them with five forwards eligible for unrestricted free agency. Jeff Skinner and Derek Ryan won’t return, but Connor Brown, Corey Perry and Kasperi Kapanen were all useful contributors on cheap contracts this past season. GM Stan Bowman wants to change the forward mix. Can he accomplish that if he brings them all back?

Florida Panthers: Ekblad’s Future in florida

Aaron Ekblad is a lifelong Panther, after being taken first overall in 2014, during the bad old days for the franchise. He’s been a big part of back-to-back Cups, but with his body battered and cap space tight, can Florida compromise and find a deal to extend him? Or does he cash in on the open market, where a lot of teams are ready to pounce with huge offers?

Los Angeles Kings: Gavrikov’s Price Tag

The Kings want to re-sign their shutdown ace. Vladislav Gavrikov found a home with Los Angeles, but wants to get paid. It feels like a tough decision,but maybe it isn’t so much if they determine that an AAV approaching $8 million in worth spending on a 29-year-old for eight years. GM Ken Holland has already alluded to the need to pivot and address the blue line if he and Gavrikov can’t meet on an extension.

Minnesota Wild: Pursuing Boeser

The Wild want to add some scoring punch to the top six, and hometown guy Brock Boeser is sitting there waiting to be plucked. The Wild have shown interest in him on the trade market many times, but with onyl $17.7 million in cap space and the desire not to tie up too much term when they want to pursue stars in the future, they may only have interest in Boeser if the term is three or four years.

Montreal Canadiens: Dvorak’s Value

dvorak was the Canadiens’ top faceoff guy and played on their second penalty-killing unit. He just had by far his best season in four years in a Canadiens uniform. His departure as an unrestricted free agent would leave a big hole, but the lack of centers available on the market probably means Dvorak could make more elsewhere than

Did You Know? The NHL salary cap for the 2024-25 season is $88 million, providing teams with varying degrees of financial flexibility. CapFriendly offers detailed insights into each team’s cap situation.

Team-by-Team Free Agency Decisions

Team Toughest Free Agency Decision
Anaheim Ducks Spending what it takes to land Mitch Marner
Boston Bruins Big splash or targeted signings?
buffalo Sabres Whether or not to trade Bowen Byram
calgary Flames Rasmus Andersson’s availability
Carolina hurricanes Whether to be patient
Chicago Blackhawks How much term and cap space they are willing to invest in a player
Colorado Avalanche Choosing between depth and high-end talent
Columbus Blue Jackets Reshaping the defense
Dallas Stars What to do with jason robertson
Detroit Red Wings Where to draw the line
Edmonton Oilers how many pending UFA wingers to re-sign
Florida Panthers Do they bring back aaron Ekblad?
Los Angeles Kings Paying Vladislav Gavrikov what he wants
Minnesota Wild To pursue Brock Boeser or not
Montreal Canadiens Do they bring back Christian Dvorak?

Pro Tip: Teams frequently enough use the free agency period to address specific needs, such as adding scoring depth, improving defensive stability, or finding a reliable backup goaltender.

What are your predictions for the biggest free agency moves this year? Which team do you think will make the most impactful signing?

The Evolution of NHL Free Agency

The NHL’s free agency system has undergone significant changes since its inception.Initially, player movement was heavily restricted, with teams holding considerable power over their players’ careers. Over time, through collective bargaining agreements, players have gained more freedom to choose their destinations and negotiate their contracts.

The introduction of unrestricted free agency (UFA) has had a profound impact on the league, allowing veteran players to test the open market and command higher salaries. Restricted free agency (RFA) still provides teams with some control over younger players, but arbitration rights and offer sheets can create leverage for players seeking new deals.

Frequently Asked Questions About NHL Free Agency

What is unrestricted free agency in the NHL?
Unrestricted free agency (UFA) allows a player to sign with any team in the NHL onc their contract expires,provided they meet certain age and service requirements.
How does restricted free agency work?
Restricted free agency (RFA) applies to players whose contracts have expired but who are not yet eligible for unrestricted free agency. their original team retains certain rights, such as the ability to match offer sheets from other teams.
What is an offer sheet in the NHL?
An offer sheet is a contract proposal made by one NHL team to a restricted free agent of another team. The player’s original team has the right to match the offer sheet and retain the player. If they decline,they receive draft pick compensation.
What is the NHL salary cap?
The NHL salary cap is a limit on the total amount of money each team can spend on player salaries. It is designed to promote competitive balance in the league.
How do teams manage their cap space during free agency?
Teams use various strategies to manage their cap space, including signing players to contracts with varying lengths and salary structures, trading players to create cap room, and utilizing long-term injured reserve (LTIR) when applicable.
What role do agents play in NHL free agency?
Agents represent players in contract negotiations with teams, advocating for their clients’ interests and seeking the best possible deals.
What are some common mistakes teams make during free agency?
Common mistakes include overpaying for players, signing players to long-term contracts that become burdensome, and failing to address critical roster needs.

Ready for the free agency frenzy? Share this article with your fellow hockey fans and join the conversation!


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Sport

Islanders name Rocky Thompson head coach of AHL Bridgeport

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Islanders Tap Rocky Thompson to Revamp AHL Pipeline

The New York Islanders are shaking up their American Hockey League affiliate, aiming to revitalize their player development system. The Bridgeport Islanders, after a disastrous season, have hired Rocky Thompson as their new head coach, signaling a strategic shift in the organization’s approach.

Thompson’s Coaching Pedigree

Rocky Thompson, 47, arrives with a wealth of experience. He spent five seasons in the NHL, working as an assistant coach with the Flyers and as an associate coach with the Sharks. Before that, he led the Chicago Wolves and the Windsor Spitfires in the AHL and OHL, respectively, even winning a championship with the latter.

The Bridgeport Islanders are desperate for a turnaround. Last season, they finished with a dismal 15-50-4-3 record, including a mere four home wins. This marked the third time in four seasons that Bridgeport missed the playoffs, leading to a complete overhaul of the coaching staff.

The Islanders have hired Rocky Thompson as the head coach of AHL Bridgeport. NHLI via Getty Images

New Leadership and Strategy

Chris Lamoriello will remain as general manager in Bridgeport, retaining his position after his contract was extended. However, the team’s culture, which contributed to the team’s poor performance and the stagnation of prospects, must evolve under Thompson’s guidance.

“I believe in developing in a winning environment [in the AHL],”

—Mathieu Darche, New GM

Mathieu Darche, the new GM, emphasizes the importance of winning. He recognizes the AHL’s challenges due to injuries and player movements. The goal is for players to be ready when called up to the NHL. The Islanders are focused on building organizational depth.

This focus is particularly crucial now. With the Islanders holding a top draft pick this week, they are heavily invested in prospects like Cole Eiserman, Calum Ritchie, Isaiah George, and Danny Nelson. The AHL is a crucial training ground; around 90% of NHL players have played in the AHL at some point in their careers (NHL.com 2024).

Looking Ahead

While it is uncertain whether these prospects will begin next season in Bridgeport, the minor league will likely play a role in their development. Building strong organizational depth is essential, especially considering the injuries that plagued the Islanders last season. The success of the AHL club is essential to the team’s long-term aspirations.

Islanders name Rocky Thompson head coach of AHL Bridgeport
Islanders GM Mathieu Darche. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
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Which NHL teams need to upgrade at center? Ranking all 32 by current quality

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

NHL Teams Evaluate Center Depth Before Free Agency

Assessing Each Team’s Strengths and Needs Down the Middle

As the offseason arrives, NHL teams are evaluating their rosters. Central to any team’s success is its depth at center, a position that shapes both offense and defense. This analysis provides a pre-free agency look at each team’s center position, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

Oilers and Golden Knights Lead the Pack

The **Edmonton Oilers**, with **Connor McDavid** and **Leon Draisaitl**, unsurprisingly top the rankings. Their need is simply a bottom-six center, making them the clear front-runner. Close behind are the **Vegas Golden Knights**, boasting a strong core of centers: **Jack Eichel**, **Tomas Hertl**, **William Karlsson**, and **Nicolas Roy**.

The **New Jersey Devils** come in third, their 1-2 punch of **Jack Hughes** and **Nico Hischier** driving their success, though their depth at 3C could be improved. The **Colorado Avalanche** benefit from **Nathan MacKinnon’s** presence, while the **Dallas Stars** are set after **Matt Duchene’s** contract extension.

Mid-Tier Teams and Their Challenges

The **Tampa Bay Lightning** require a steady 4C. The **New York Islanders** are in decent shape, especially with **Bo Horvat** and **Mathew Barzal** centering their top lines. The **Florida Panthers** have options, including the possibility of **Sam Bennett** returning. For the **Los Angeles Kings**, the focus is on the ongoing development of **Quinton Byfield** to complement **Anze Kopitar**.

The **Buffalo Sabres** look set, assuming **Tage Thompson** plays center. The **Ottawa Senators** have a promising top three led by **Tim Stützle**, but need a solid fourth-liner. The **Carolina Hurricanes**, hampered by **Jesperi Kotkaniemi**, need an upgrade to their top-six center.

The **Toronto Maple Leafs** require upgrades, especially without **John Tavares**, and lack depth. The **Detroit Red Wings** hope **Marco Kasper** continues developing to aid **Dylan Larkin**.

Teams Facing Significant Gaps

The **Washington Capitals** need a consistent performance from **Pierre-Luc Dubois**. The **Pittsburgh Penguins**, with an aging **Evgeni Malkin**, face problems. The **Minnesota Wild** might trade a 2C. The **Winnipeg Jets** have long-standing needs.

The **St. Louis Blues** require a middle-six center. The **New York Rangers’** center depth is bleak if **Mika Zibanejad** departs. The **Columbus Blue Jackets** hope for progress from young players. The **Calgary Flames** need a top-line center.

Rebuilding Teams and Their Priorities

The **Utah Mammoth** need to add high-end talent. The **Montreal Canadiens** are set at the top with **Nick Suzuki**, but have other issues. The **San Jose Sharks** need growth from their young stars. The **Chicago Blackhawks** need to see progress in their development.

The **Vancouver Canucks** are reeling from the departure of key players, and their depth has diminished. The **Seattle Kraken** are struggling with their current center lineup. The **Anaheim Ducks** need **Leo Carlsson** and **Mason McTavish** to develop, and the **Boston Bruins** need a replacement for **Patrice Bergeron** and more centers.

The **Philadelphia Flyers** desperately need a top offensive star at center. The **Nashville Predators** need to find answers. According to NHL.com, the average salary for an NHL center is $5.2 million, a key factor in team strategy and free agency considerations (NHL).

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Isles Linked to KHL Star: Free Agent Pursuit Continues

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

New York Islanders Eye Maxim Shabanov for Top-Nine Role

Table of Contents

The New York Islanders are reportedly vying for Maxim Shabanov, a highly skilled KHL free agent, with hopes he can secure a prominent role within their top-nine forward group. Shabanov’s offensive prowess in the Kontinental Hockey League has attracted attention from several NHL teams.

Shabanov’s impressive KHL Stats

Maxim Shabanov, 24, showcased his offensive capabilities in the KHL, notching 23 goals and 67 points across 65 games this past season. he also contributed substantially in the playoffs, scoring 10 goals and 20 points in 21 games. His team, Traktor Chelyabinsk, reached the Gagarin Cup final but ultimately fell short against Lokomotiv yaroslavl. In the prior season,Shabanov recorded 25 goals and 50 points in 65 games [[1]].

Did You Know? Shabanov’s 67 points this season surpassed Maxim Tsyplakov’s 47 points the year prior, before Tsyplakov joined the Islanders.

Scouting Report: Skill vs.Size

Scouts acknowledge Shabanov’s exceptional offensive talent and skill,consistently demonstrated through his KHL production. Though, his size, listed at 5’8″ and 157 lbs, raises concerns about his ability to adapt to the more physical NHL. despite this, the success of smaller players like Cole Caufield and Alex DeBrincat offers a counter-narrative.

Comparison to Ruslan Iskhakov

Ruslan Iskhakov, another player of similar stature (5’7″ and 152 lbs), experienced difficulties upon returning to Russia, scoring only 12 goals and 29 points in 60 games. Shabanov, despite his size, has consistently thrived, making him an intriguing prospect for the Islanders.

Why the Islanders Could Be a Good Fit

The Islanders are among six teams reportedly interested in shabanov, including the Vegas Golden knights, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, and utah Mammoth. While the Flyers were initially considered frontrunners, the race appears open. the Islanders have been monitoring Shabanov since October and possess a Russian-speaking contingent that could ease his transition to North America.

pro Tip: Jim Paliafito, known for successfully recruiting European talent, is highly likely leading the islanders’ pursuit of Shabanov.

Opportunity for a Key Role

Shabanov could see a significant opportunity for a key role within the Islanders’ top nine forwards, a chance to contribute to a team with potential for contention sooner than some other interested parties like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.The Islanders have a history of signing European free agents, with varying degrees of success.

Timeline for a Decision

A final decision from Shabanov is expected by the first week of July, as teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season. The Islanders’ pursuit of Shabanov highlights their ongoing efforts to bolster their offensive capabilities.

Maxim Shabanov: KHL Statistics
Season Team Games goals Assists Points
2023-2024 traktor Chelyabinsk 65 23 44 67
2023-2024 (Playoffs) Traktor Chelyabinsk 21 10 10 20
2022-2023 Traktor Chelyabinsk 65 25 25 50

The Allure of KHL Talent

NHL teams frequently scout the KHL for undervalued talent, seeking players with unique skill sets and potential for growth. The KHL, known for its emphasis on defensive play and structured systems, can be a breeding ground for technically gifted players who may be overlooked due to size or other perceived limitations. The islanders’ interest in Maxim Shabanov reflects this ongoing trend of exploring international markets for potential roster upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maxim Shabanov

What makes Maxim Shabanov an attractive NHL prospect?

Shabanov’s offensive skills and consistent production in the KHL make him an intriguing prospect. his ability to score goals and create plays in a league known for its strong defense suggests he could contribute offensively at the NHL level.

What are the potential risks of signing Maxim Shabanov?

The primary risk is his size and whether he can adapt to the more physical style of play in the NHL. There’s also the uncertainty of how his skills will translate from the KHL to the NHL.

How does Shabanov compare to other KHL players who have come to the NHL?

The success of KHL players in the NHL varies. Some have thrived, while others have struggled to adapt.Shabanov’s skill set and work ethic will be key factors in determining his success.

Will Shabanov’s offensive talent translate to the NHL? What kind of impact could he have on the Islanders’ roster?

Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

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NHL Free Agency 2025: Top Targets for Every Team

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

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Did You Know? …

Pro Tip: …

With NHL free agency just around the corner on July 1, teams are strategizing to bolster their rosters. Which pending UFA do you think woudl make the biggest impact? What team needs a shakeup the most?

NHL Free Agency Frenzy: Top UFA Targets for Each Team

Table of Contents

As NHL free agency approaches, teams are eyeing potential acquisitions to strengthen their lineups. With prominent names like Mitch marner, Aaron Ekblad, and Nikolaj Ehlers headlining the list of pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs), the upcoming weeks promise meaningful roster moves. This article,inspired by insights from The Athletic, highlights one UFA each team should target this summer to address their specific needs and elevate their competitiveness in the league. The focus is on strategic acquisitions that align with team goals and improve overall performance.

Anaheim ducks

Brock Boeser

If Marner isn’t in play, Boeser could be a good Plan B who isn’t nearly as costly. He’ll get paid and could surpass Troy Terry’s team-high $7 million AAV. But the Ducks’ salary scale wouldn’t be thrown off, and they would get a shooter whose down year of 25 goals last season would have led Anaheim. Beckett Sennecke, the no. 3 pick in 2024, won’t need to be rushed.- Eric Stephens

Boston Bruins

Mitch Marner

Who would want to play against a team that rolls David Pastrnak on one shift and Marner the next? The Bruins would be top-heavy with two difference-making right wings. But in a good way. – Fluto Shinzawa

Buffalo Sabres

Aaron Ekblad

The Sabres’ biggest need is a right-shot defenseman capable of playing in the top four. Ekblad is the best player available who fits that description.He comes with an established track record playing for a winning team to go with a physical edge. He’s also only 29,so he should still have some good seasons left in him. – Matthew Fairburn

calgary Flames

Nikolaj Ehlers

A goal-scoring winger with speed and skating in his arsenal. He makes a ton of sense for Calgary if he’s willing to remain in Canada.Boeser could be another option.The goal is for Calgary to get someone younger and not chase after mid-30s players who keep them away from that goal. – Julian McKenzie


Mitch marner is a defensively responsible forward who is hardworking and can be used in all situations. (Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images)

Carolina Hurricanes

Mitch Marner

Marner would fit the Hurricanes’ style and give the team an elite point producer. he’s a defensively responsible forward who is hardworking and can be used in all situations. While there is a case for Carolina upgrading at center over another wing, the team could accomplish its longtime pursuit of landing a superstar by landing Marner this offseason. – Cory Lavalette

Chicago Blackhawks

Mitch Marner

Marner is probably a long shot, and the blackhawks may not even sign a significant unrestricted free agent.It’s possible they’ll be more aggressive in trying to acquire someone through trade. But of the current UFAs, Marner is the one who makes the most sense from age and talent standpoints.- Scott powers

Colorado Avalanche

Dante Fabbro

After signing Brock Nelson to an extension, Colorado has its core under contract, but also very little cap space to work with. the Avs should be looking to upgrade the fringes with a good value signing, and Fabbro could be perfect. He’s 26, a strong skater and played well with Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski this year. He’d be a great addition if Colorado could find a way to fit his contract. – Jesse Granger

Columbus Blue Jackets

Aaron Ekblad

the Blue Jackets want to bolster their blue line, and the right side needs the most help. Ekblad would be a perfect fit, whether he pairs with Werenski on the top pair or with youngster Denton Mateychuk on the second pair.The right side has been a sore spot as Seth Jones was traded to Chicago, but Ekblad could help give the Jackets two major minute-munchers, one on each side. – Aaron Portzline

Dallas Stars

Aaron ekblad

Miro Heiskanen is capable of playing on his off side; he’s been doing it for years. But the Stars could use a good right-handed shot, and Ekblad fits the bill. He could slot in alongside Thomas Harley or Esa Lindell and give Dallas a terrific top four. But making the money work will be difficult,especially if Jim Nill plans to re-sign Matt Duchene and captain Jamie Benn. – Mark Lazerus

NHL Free Agency 2025: Top Targets for Every Team


Vladislav Gavrikov is one of the league’s best defensive defensemen. (Luke Hales / Getty Images)

Detroit Red Wings

Vladislav Gavrikov

While a top-line winger would be the more exciting add, Detroit needs a top-four defenseman, and Gavrikov would be the dream fit. He’s one of the league’s best defensive defensemen, is used to taking tough minutes and has familiarity with Todd McLellan and Trent Yawney from Los Angeles. Putting Gavrikov next to Moritz Seider would make for a fearsome defensive pairing. – Max Bultman

Edmonton Oilers

Connor Brown

It’s a boring answer, but sometimes there’s nothing wrong with boring. Brown has become one of the heartbeats of the team as a penalty killer and role player who can move up in the lineup. He loves being an Oiler, his former agent runs the team and he surely won’t break the bank. That’s vital, considering the oilers don’t have an abundance of cap space. – Daniel Nugent-Bowman

Florida Panthers

Sam Bennett

Why mess with success? That goes for both sides, too. If Bennett wants to max out – and some team will be more than happy to offer the prospect – it’ll be time to say goodbye. Is it that outrageous to think that Florida paying him, say, $7 million a season should be out of the question? The fit is perfect, and there (as usual) aren’t a ton of plug-and-play down-the-middle options on the market. – Sean Gentille

Los Angeles Kings

Vladislav Gavrikov

With Rob Blake as the kings’ GM, it felt like a foregone conclusion that Gavrikov would be re-signed, but that’s no longer the case with ken Holland. If Holland isn’t keen on throwing many years and big money at Gavrikov, the 29-year-old defensive bedrock, trading for the younger Bowen Byram (or perhaps Nicolas Hague) might be necessary if they also make a big move, such as taking a run at Marner. – Eric Stephens

Minnesota Wild

John Tavares

The Wild’s main need is up the middle,and now they’re on Plan B after target Nelson re-signed with the Avalanche. Tavares’ priority has been to stay in Toronto, but if he gets to market, he’d give Minnesota the experienced, two-way center who could take some pressure off Joel Eriksson Ek. The Wild need to get Tavares,duchene or Jonathan Toews to address the position,especially after missing out on Nelson. – Joe Smith


Dante Fabbro is young, shoots from the right side, should be relatively inexpensive and did some good things with the Blue Jackets. (Jason Mowry / Getty Images)

Montreal Canadiens

Dante Fabbro

Fabbro might not make it to July 1, as the reasons why Montreal might want him are the same reasons Columbus would want to keep him: he’s young, shoots from the right side, should be relatively inexpensive and did some good things with the Blue Jackets. The Canadiens have a need on the right side of their blue line with the retirement of David Savard. – Arpon Basu

Nashville Predators

Sam Bennett

It’s doubtful Bennett will be available, but if he is, the Predators should be all over him. He’s a proven playoff performer who plays with an edge and can score. He’s also a good fit with the team’s identity. – Pierre LeBrun

New Jersey Devils

Tyler Bertuzzi

The Devils need to add some grit and toughness to their lineup, and Bertuzzi would bring that in spades. He’s also a skilled player who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

New York Islanders

Jonathan Drouin

The Islanders need to add some skill and creativity to their lineup, and Drouin would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

New York Rangers

Jake Guentzel

The Rangers need to add some scoring depth to their lineup, and Guentzel would bring that in spades. He’s also a proven playoff performer who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

Ottawa Senators

Matt Duchene

The Senators need to add some experience and leadership to their lineup, and Duchene would bring that in spades. He’s also a skilled player who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

Philadelphia Flyers

Chris Tanev

The Flyers need to add some defensive stability to their lineup, and tanev would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – pierre LeBrun

Pittsburgh Penguins

Jason Zucker

The Penguins need to add some scoring depth to their lineup, and Zucker would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

San Jose Sharks

Joe Pavelski

The Sharks need to add some experience and leadership to their lineup,

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Slafkovsky Needs to Learn: St. Louis Coach on Young Forward

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Canadiens Coach Defends Young Star Slafkovský Amidst ‌Early⁣ Season ⁢Struggles

Montreal Canadiens head‌ coach Martin⁢ St.Louis recently addressed the media following a team practice, offering his ​perspective on the performance of young Slovak forward Juraj Slafkovský. ​ While some ‌have criticized​ Slafkovský’s early season showing,St.Louis highlighted the 20-year-old’s positive attributes and unwavering work⁤ ethic.

Juraj Slafkovský in a Montreal Canadiens jersey
Juraj Slafkovský (photo: X/Canadiens​ Montreal)

Despite facing⁣ scrutiny, Slafkovský’s youth is ‌a factor St. Louis emphasizes. “He knows he’s young. He has things to learn. He⁢ doesn’t think he has ⁣all the answers and he’s not⁢ going to blame ​everything around him‌ if⁢ it doesn’t work,‍ so that’s a good quality to have,” St.Louis commented. This mature approach, according to the coach, ‌is a key strength ⁢for the‍ young player navigating the intense pressures of the NHL.

St.​ Louis also ⁣praised ​Slafkovský’s ability to ​maintain perspective amidst the high-stakes habitat‌ of⁤ professional hockey. ⁤ “We play a serious game in a serious league, but I‌ don’t think Slafkovský‍ takes himself so seriously. Sometimes he laughs at himself, which is the part I⁤ like about him,” st. Louis⁤ stated, emphasizing the importance‌ of ⁢a healthy‍ self-awareness and a sense of humor in the face of adversity. ⁢ This ‌resilience, a quality often seen in successful athletes, suggests‍ a luminous future for the young Slovak player.

Slafkovský’s ⁢journey​ reflects the challenges many young players face entering the ⁤NHL. ‍ His performance, while perhaps ⁣not meeting initial expectations, showcases‌ the learning curve inherent in⁢ transitioning to professional hockey.‌ ‌ St. Louis’s comments ​underscore ‌the importance of⁢ patience and⁣ support in developing young ‌talent ⁢within⁢ the league, a sentiment echoed by many coaches across the‍ NHL.

The Canadiens organization, known ⁣for its history of developing young players, appears committed to Slafkovský’s growth. ⁣ His positive attitude and willingness​ to learn, as highlighted by St. Louis, suggest a promising trajectory for the young forward, despite the early season challenges.

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