{"time":1782957053442,"blocks":[{"id":"erZkgRzLK9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Welcome to the NHL Free Agency Frenzy of 2026."}},{"id":"EqWaP0J2Mh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Stay tuned to The Hockey News as free agency opens at 12 p.m. ET. We're tracking the big signings and trades while featuring our free agency coverage, including rankings, rumor roundups, analysis, news and more."}},{"id":"yb2f1WG8Pi","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Scroll below for the signings tracker, trade tracker, top UFAs and a ton of related stories."}},{"id":"mr2c0ecr","type":"video","data":{"url":"https://us-central1-deweb-519a7.cloudfunctions.net/mediaService-api/videos/b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127/mp4","caption":"Michael Traikos and Ryan Kennedy react to Rasmus Andersson re-signing in Vegas.","autoplay":false,"controls":true,"muted":false,"stretched":true,"width":0,"height":0,"image":{"url":"https://us-central1-deweb-519a7.cloudfunctions.net/mediaService-api/videos/b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127/thumbnail"},"cdn":{"videoId":"b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127","libraryId":"372172","collectionId":"30032062-eefd-4041-a355-12ad05bc987b","cdnBaseUrl":"https://vz-052fc010-b27.b-cdn.net","mp4Url":"https://us-central1-deweb-519a7.cloudfunctions.net/mediaService-api/videos/b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127/mp4","thumbnailUrl":"https://us-central1-deweb-519a7.cloudfunctions.net/mediaService-api/videos/b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127/thumbnail","previewAnimationUrl":"https://vz-052fc010-b27.b-cdn.net/b8654afb-cd53-4540-877e-b6e441771127/preview.webp"}}},{"id":"3nJQDzr2SE","type":"header","data":{"text":"Signings Tracker","level":2,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"S4Nj60rfNM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Read up on the notable signings from the opening of free agency. Refresh this page for updates with analysis on the top signings. By Jonathan Tovell and Owen Cameron"}},{"id":"w9bqBoKT9J","type":"header","data":{"text":"July 1","level":3,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"EdPHs0Btv1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Edmonton Oilers: Mathieu Joseph (UFA), 1 year, $1 million AAV."}},{"id":"hozXf-WRRp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Joseph follows new Oilers associate coach D.J. Smith to Edmonton. The winger played for Smith with the Ottawa Senators, and he joined the Kings partway through last season while Smith was the interim coach. The problem is that Joseph had zero points in 12 games and only suited up twice in the playoffs. The 29-year-old had 35 points in 2023-24, and Edmonton really needs that kind of depth production next season. - J.T."}},{"id":"FRZXoNIdWw","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Dallas Stars: Joel Kiviranta (UFA), 1 year, $1 million AAV."}},{"id":"TmLbvl6-Ih","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Remember when Kiviranta finished a hat trick with an overtime-winner to help the Stars eliminate the Avalanche and advance to the Western Conference final in the 2020 bubble playoffs? Well, he scored three goals in the entire 2025-26 season, with nine points in 51 games. He does help kill penalties, though, and he posted a career-high 16 goals and 23 points with Colorado in 2024-25. - J.T."}},{"id":"QrdbmJeTsS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Winnipeg Jets: Mario Ferraro (UFA), 3 years, $4 million AAV."}},{"id":"J1pS4Lw3uv","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Ferraro was a stalwart defensive defenseman for the Sharks and added some depth scoring, with seven goals and 23 points this past season. He received tough assignments in San Jose, averaging 3:23 of ice time on the penalty kill, and his 150 blocked shots led the team. Winnipeg's defense corps looks pretty deep after this addition. - J.T."}},{"id":"kieQbB8lLE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Edmonton Oilers: Frederik Andersen (UFA), 1 year, $2.8 million AAV."}},{"id":"rK8qlxXUFc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This is a great signing for the Oilers. Andersen just helped get the Carolina Hurricanes most of the way to winning the Stanley Cup, with a 13-2 record, 1.89 goals-against average, .913 save percentage and three shutouts in the playoffs. His .874 SP and 3.05 GAA during the regular season were poor, so Edmonton hasn't resolved its goaltending issue yet. But if Andersen can stop what he's expected to stop and then turn it up in the playoffs, the Oilers' Cup fortunes are still very real. - J.T."}},{"id":"K1euhyLM0R","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vancouver Canucks: Jamie Oleksiak (UFA), 2 years, $5 million AAV."}},{"id":"DHuUcg3QUN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Oleksiak is a defensive defenseman who comes in as the Canucks traded Marcus Pettersson to the New York Rangers. The 6-foot-7, 252-pound veteran had 112 hits and 106 blocked shots this past season, and he played a secondary role on Seattle's penalty kill. It's the early stages of a rebuild in Vancouver, and setting the tone for years to come is the name of the game for Canucks GM Ryan Johnson. Oleksiak will lead by example. - J.T."}},{"id":"s4r-5yaLmG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Florida Panthers: Lars Eller (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV."}},{"id":"4NT_-wlFXS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Eller is a defensive center whose usage on the penalty kill has decreased over the last two years. With 15 points in 68 games in Ottawa, his scoring isn't the same it used to be, either, but this is still a risk-free signing for Florida. - J.T."}},{"id":"zbHxxA-MMS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Edmonton Oilers: Kasperi Kapanen (UFA), 1 year, $2.6 million AAV."}},{"id":"E-bwyF33Wt","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Kapanen had eight goals and 17 points in 41 games this past season. He's speedy on the wing and averaged one minute per game of penalty-kill time. Did Edmonton take too long to trade Nurse? They have some cap space now but are running out of options to upgrade the team. - J.T."}},{"id":"uXgCbC27o-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Utah Mammoth: Anders Lee (UFA), 3 years, $5.4 million AAV."}},{"id":"_x6dhZWMCm","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Wild were the popular predicted landing spot for Lee, but the Minnesota native took his talents to Utah instead. With 19 goals and 42 points this past season, Lee remains an effective secondary scorer and power forward who can help lead Utah to a deeper playoff run. - J.T."}},{"id":"bo3y5bQN2A","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Minnesota Wild: Zach Bogosian (UFA), 1 year, $1.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"ZLR_-fq6c4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Wild have used Bogosian in a depth role the last two seasons, so they have him as insurance from another season. Bogosian is one of four NHLers who don't wear a visor. - J.T."}},{"id":"oqciBdOtU2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs: Zack MacEwen (UFA), 2 years, $875,000 AAV."}},{"id":"WN74HESRde","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"MacEwen is a fighter and a hitter in limited ice time. The right winger had 16 points in 23 AHL games this past season. - J.T."}},{"id":"RwJefdjG6l","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Rangers: Joseph Veleno (UFA), 1 year, $1.2 million AAV."}},{"id":"T0c7y-kizg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"If there is a time for Veleno to prove he can be not only an NHLer but a reliable offensive producer, it's this upcoming season with the retooling Rangers. Veleno had 28 points in 80 games in 2023-24 but five points in 61 games this past season. - J.T."}},{"id":"yeCvfZEhzj","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anaheim Ducks: Laurent Brossoit (UFA), 1 year, $1.1 million AAV."}},{"id":"AHivZ496bW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Ducks now have Lukas Dostal, Ville Husso and Brossoit under contract for next season. Petr Mrazek was in the mix last season but went to free agency. - J.T."}},{"id":"7PAxvVpntZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs: Brandon Duhaime (UFA), 3 years, $1.85 million AAV."}},{"id":"cYk4rPCH9S","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Buffalo Sabres: Conor Sheary (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV."}},{"id":"sEbfGHH4jM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Seattle Kraken: Curtis Douglas (UFA), 2 years, $1.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"E7oyCuF_yp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Edmonton Oilers: Ryan Shea (UFA), 5 years, $4.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"y11sotJtM5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Shea turned one good season into long-term stability. The 2025-26 campaign was the first time he played more than 39 games and recorded more than five points in a season. He had 35 points in 80 games for Pittsburgh this past year. If he continues to excel at moving the puck and play on the penalty kill, then this contract is a good use of cap space after Edmonton traded Darnell Nurse. It's a risky contract for now, though. - J.T."}},{"id":"13KMZvbvYs","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Washington Capitals: Boone Jenner (UFA), 4 years, $5.75 million AAV."}},{"id":"FeYodIotqp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Jenner was one of the top UFAs available on Day 1 of free agency. He's dealt with injury issues during the past six years, but the former Blue Jackets captain brings physicality and more secondary scoring to the Capitals. He'll likely slot in on Washington's third line. Washington doesn't necessarily have a standout star on offense unless Alex Ovechkin returns, but it does have decent depth right now. - J.T."}},{"id":"TzRynW3dkS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Detroit Red Wings: Daniil Tarasov (UFA), 1 year, $2 million AAV."}},{"id":"-brl-ZhVVD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tarasov, 27, had an .895 save percentage and 3.05 goals-against average in 33 games with the Panthers. He replaces Cam Talbot as a stop-gap netminder until Trey Augustine is ready for The Show. Sebastian Cossa looked ready for the NHL, but Detroit traded him to Utah for a first-round pick. - J.T."}},{"id":"YVokcU6qpi","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anaheim Ducks: Jeff Malott (UFA), 3 years, $1.85 million AAV."}},{"id":"FLXMapAVa7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"San Jose Sharks: Eric Comrie (UFA), 2 years, $1.15 million AAV."}},{"id":"1DTFPampLJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Like Connor Hellebuyck, Comrie's stats worsened in Winnipeg this past season. He could either compete for backup duties with Alex Nedeljkovic or be a third-string goalie. Either way, he has a bubbly personality and should be a pleasure for San Jose staff and players to work with. - J.T."}},{"id":"6N0ptb2E_N","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anaheim Ducks: Nick Jensen (UFA), 2 years, $2.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"xeh9NPWmXY","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Jensen struggled with an injury this year but is otherwise a puck-mover who can play on the second or third pair in Anaheim. He shoots right, which should help fill Anaheim's gap on the side following the departures of Jacob Trouba and Radko Gudas. The Ducks likely need to add more on defense, but this contract for Jensen is very reasonable. - J.T."}},{"id":"vH-5enpzCl","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Pittsburgh Penguins: Trevor van Riemsdyk (UFA), 2 years, $4 million AAV."}},{"id":"t9V75nSmqS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"After six seasons with the Washington Capitals, van Riemsdyk will now bring his veteran presence and strong defensive play to the Penguins. Pittsburgh allowed the ninth-most goals in 2025-26. - J.T."}},{"id":"65UZq_0ydZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"St. Louis Blues: Dillon Dube (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV."}},{"id":"QFv6EAfcwu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Dube was one of five members of the 2018 Canadian world junior team who faced a charge of sexual assault and was acquitted in July 2025. He recorded 20 goals and 37 points in 46 games with the AHL's Springfield Thunderbirds this past season. - J.T."}},{"id":"w2ROqQJ3hs","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Nashville Predators: Alexander Kerfoot (UFA), 2 years, $3.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"aA9dJWqToY","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Predators continue to add more players to the competition for a spot in the forward group. Kerfoot once had 51 points in 2021-22, but he had 13 points in 34 games this past season. He could be a decent third-line scorer for Nashville. - J.T."}},{"id":"mVIMvZFu8y","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Pittsburgh Penguins: Andrei Kuzmenko (UFA), 1 year, $5 million AAV."}},{"id":"-TxDQgrVvG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Kuzmenko's cap hit does not reflect the 25 points in 52 games that he managed this past season with the Kings. What it does reflect is the 39 goals and 74 points in 81 games that he got in 2022-23 and GM Kyle Dubas' interest in reclamation projects. - J.T."}},{"id":"qblZ4hDTKh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Minnesota Wild: Calvin Pickard (UFA), 1 year, $1 million AAV."}},{"id":"Vokg93Z7D8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Pickard will back up Jesper Wallstedt while Filip Gustavsson recovers from off-season hip surgery. After that, he'll be a third-string goalie. Pickard is a great insurance netminder for the Wild. - J.T."}},{"id":"M8U7D15f0X","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Islanders: Matias Maccelli (UFA), 1 year, $2.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"t9_NdQ1s6P","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Maccelli had 14 goals and 39 points in 71 games this past season. That's a step toward returning to type of production he had in 2022-23 (49 points in 64 games) and 2023-24 (57 points in 82 games). This is a prove-it deal for a team trying to prove it doesn't need a long retool or rebuild. - J.T."}},{"id":"7WXeaN0CLe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Islanders: Vitek Vanecek (UFA), 1 year, $1 million AAV."}},{"id":"CgdItqWzY2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"If the Islanders have their way, their goalie tandem next season will be Ilya Sorokin and Semyon Varlamov. But Varlamov has had two knee surgeries, and the team is not rushing him back. Vanecek is a solid backup option if Varlamov needs more time. - J.T."}},{"id":"ZmIXYoY8hm","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Washington Capitals: Vincent Desharnais (UFA), 4 years, $4.2 million AAV."}},{"id":"SPE7sj1qkN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Capitals are stocking up on defensive blueliners. Desharnais has tons of experience on the penalty kill, and he allowed the second-fewest scoring chances against per 60 minutes among Sharks D-men this past season. - J.T."}},{"id":"2V9r6u-TMg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Washington Capitals, report: Justin Holl (UFA), 1 year, $900,000 AAV."}},{"id":"qHu_QwFO5k","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Holl's previous cap hit of $3.4 million was far too much, considering the defensive defenseman spent most of this past season in the AHL. This new salary is more team-friendly, especially if he finds a role as an effective, third-pairing, defensive defenseman. - J.T."}},{"id":"sOtOkBMEqm","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Rangers: Oliver Bjorkstrand (UFA), 1 year, $4.5 million AAV"}},{"id":"2diWxjxP6N","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Bjorkstrand was a potential bargain-bin UFA heading into July 1. At $4.5 million, whether he's truly a bargain replacement is debatable, but if he can record 59 points like he did for Seattle in 2023-24, he'll answer that question for us. - J.T."}},{"id":"P7k_I5HkCi","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs, report: Teddy Blueger (UFA) 2 years, $2.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"x-eE6_LbyT","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Blueger is expected to be a third- or fourth-line center who can appear on the penalty kill and start most of his shifts in the defensive zone. Toronto's starting to look more balanced on offense. - J.T."}},{"id":"x9nLQIox0p","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Boston Bruins: Connor Clifton (UFA), 2 years, $2.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"tjb7JBC_SU","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Clifton is a defensive defenseman who led Pittsburgh in hits this past season, with 180 in 50 games. He also frequently blocks shots and should be an interesting puzzle piece in the Bruins' defense after the team conceded the fifth-most shots in 2025-26. - J.T."}},{"id":"v2XhkS1fRh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Boston Bruins: Jordan Harris (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV."}},{"id":"TmmPpkOa8p","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Columbus Blue Jackets: Pheonix Copley (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV."}},{"id":"P3bTaZkX3H","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Copley will likely serve as insurance for Columbus, which has Jet Greaves and Elvis Merzlikins as it its current tandem. If Merzlikins gets traded, Copley can be the backup. He had a .903 save percentage in 37 games for the Kings back in 2022-23 but has been an AHLer since. - J.T."}},{"id":"Y9zgT6ZGWi","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs, report: Sergei Bobrovsky (UFA), 3 years, $7 million AAV."}},{"id":"gfbGBKFFE3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Bobrovsky was arguably the top free-agent goalie available, with two Stanley Cup championships in the last three years and two Vezina Trophy wins on his resume. Toronto traded Joseph Woll to Philadelphia in June, and the thought was that Dennis Hildeby would become a tandem mate to Anthony Stolarz since he's no longer waivers-exempt. Unless they try to run with three NHL goalies, Stolarz or Hildeby will likely be heading out. - J.T. "}},{"id":"vzdBNdFKkx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs, report: Colton Sissons (UFA), 2 years, $4.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"0kflYXVQf3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Maple Leafs have kept their core but are continuing to refresh the rest of their roster. Sissons only had 11 points in 66 games this past season but recorded 35 points in 2023-24. He was one of Vegas' most effective faceoff-takers last season with a 56.5 percent win rate. - J.T."}},{"id":"-zOHhwpJok","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"San Jose Sharks: Jacob Trouba (UFA), 4 years, $8.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"7OdXVbmi90","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Trouba stays in the Western Conference and joins a division rival after spending parts of two seasons with the Ducks. His previous $8-million cap hit seemed like too much for a player who hadn't put up 50 points since 2018-19, but he ended up receiving a raise. Trouba can average at least 20 minutes, block shots and hit opponents for San Jose while their younger blueliners develop. Whether San Jose will be better off signing Trouba to this contract instead of re-signing defensive defenseman Mario Ferraro will be an interesting storyline moving forward. - J.T."}},{"id":"wc99_6_BIK","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vancouver Canucks: Luke Schenn (UFA), 1 year, $2.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"7b4IK7jJpx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Schenn is back in Vancouver, where he played in 2021-22 and part of 2022-23. He averaged 1:35 on the penalty kill with Winnipeg before being sent to Buffalo at the trade deadline, and he is a frequent hitter. He'll be a great character player and leader in Vancouver as they build a better culture. - J.T."}},{"id":"hmOyCLlehr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vancouver Canucks: Paul Cotter (UFA), 1 year, $2.15 million AAV."}},{"id":"wn3xawbAzx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Cotter did not receive a qualifying offer from the Devils and became a UFA. Vancouver picks up a project player who only had nine goals and 15 points in 79 games this past season but has the potential to score more. - J.T."}},{"id":"A60HZnp3xG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Winnipeg Jets: Stuart Skinner (UFA), 2 years, $3.75 million AAV."}},{"id":"dZPNHdhfFe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Skinner's stats have taken a turn for the worse over the last two seasons, but he did have a decent .914 save percentage and 2.75 goals-against average for Edmonton back in 2022-23. If Winnipeg gets that version of Skinner, the salary is a bargain, even as a backup to Connor Hellebuyck for as long as he's still with the squad. - J.T."}},{"id":"43ZtdXN49d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Philadelphia Flyers, report: Noel Acciari (UFA), 2 years, $2.8 million AAV."}},{"id":"2tQystDS3v","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Acciari, 34, spent the last three season with Philadelphia's rival, the Penguins. With 25 points in 67 games and a 52 percent faceoff success rate in 2025-26, Acciari can play a bottom-six role at 5-on-5 and a primary role on the penalty kill. - J.T."}},{"id":"UNXSo8vLbl","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Philadelphia Flyers: Tyson Foerster (contract extension): 8 years, $7.1 million AAV."}},{"id":"Vc-P0gke0f","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"An injury limited Foerster to 29 games in 2025-26, but he managed 13 goals and 17 points. With 100 points in 195 career NHL games, Foerster is due for a breakout season. The Flyers are banking on goal-scoring potential with this contract. - J.T."}},{"id":"oVs74Os_zp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Detroit Red Wings: Viktor Arvidsson (UFA), 2 years, $5 million AAV."}},{"id":"_quWwHl-AZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Red Wings needed help scoring goals from their wingers, and Arvidsson will help with that. He had 25 goals and 54 points in 69 games with the Bruins this past season despite averaging just 14:36 of ice time. Detroit needs that level of secondary scoring to have a chance of making the playoffs. - J.T."}},{"id":"8QD5IVriwc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs, report: Jack Roslovic (UFA), 2 years, $4 million AAV."}},{"id":"2EX_qL-URF","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Roslovic was one of the better bargain forwards to target in free agency, and the Leafs won the sweepstakes. Roslovic didn't wait until October to sign, and he will try to improve on his 36 points in 69 games from this past season. He's an upgrade on Nick Robertson, who was traded earlier on Wednesday. - J.T."}},{"id":"sJHq0BdnXz","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Pittsburgh Penguins: Declan Carlie (UFA) 2 years, $1.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"nd8wn6dP1E","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Colorado Avalanche: Noah Juulsen (UFA), 2 years, $1.1 million AAV."}},{"id":"WBUacsKlXD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tampa Bay Lightning, report: Jeffrey Viel (UFA) 5 years, $2.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"oUdedbw54H","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Viel had never carried a cap hit above $780,000 before Wednesday's signing. He now gets $2.5 million annually on a fairly long contract to deliver body checks and fight if deemed necessary. He also recorded three goals and 10 points in 45 games. - J.T."}},{"id":"2yhWyxW4sJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"St. Louis Blues: Ross Johnston (UFA), 3 years, $2 million AAV."}},{"id":"f23v7nKtCS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The 6-foot-5, 232-pound left winger doesn't play much in any given game, but he racked up 192 hits and nine fights this past season in Anaheim. The Blues are undergoing some roster renovations this off-season, and Johnston gets a decent salary to protect his teammates. - J.T."}},{"id":"a6lMWRm4TH","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tampa Bay Lightning, report: Ilya Mikheyev (UFA), 4 years, $3.85 million AAV."}},{"id":"EPGX43FP8o","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Mikheyev was one of the NHL's best penalty-killing forwards in Chicago this past season. Only seven NHL forwards logged at least 200 minutes on the PK, and Mikheyev averaged the second-fewest high-danger chances against out of the bunch. He's speedy as well, so this is a great signing for Tampa Bay. - J.T."}},{"id":"-Yksw4rPEs","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Columbus Blue Jackets: Ryan Lomberg (UFA), 2 years, $1.3 million AAV."}},{"id":"q-xyGYP2W6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Lomberg is a fourth-liner who hits as much as he can and isn't afraid to drop the gloves. Mathieu Olivier already hits and fights for Columbus, so I'm not sure this signing really filled a gap on the ice for Columbus. - J.T."}},{"id":"6ddbrNRM9z","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"San Jose Sharks, report: Mason Marchment (UFA), 5 years, $7 million AAV."}},{"id":"ZQxk4wRZ5Q","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Sharks should compete for the playoffs after this off-season. Marchment will bring aggressive play and secondary scoring to a team that also brought in Ivar Stenberg and should see Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith and Michael Misa improve even more. If Marchment can crack the 50-point mark as he did in Dallas in 2023-24, that average annual value will be worth it. - J.T. "}},{"id":"UIr2FrgC1I","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Chicago Blackhawks, report: Ian Cole (UFA), 1 year, $4.75 million AAV."}},{"id":"QxBk-JakOn","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The rebuilding Blackhawks sign a veteran defenseman for a player-friendly cap hit. Cole, 38, gets a $150,000 bonus at 20, 30, 40 and 50 games played, then $100,000 at 60 games played and $50,000 at 70 games played. Cole was Utah's most-used penalty-killer this past season and recorded a decent 23 points in 82 games. - J.T."}},{"id":"QI9FfOkdPv","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Los Angeles Kings, report: Corey Perry (UFA), 1 year, $1 million AAV."}},{"id":"g7Elx3P_DP","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Perry, 41, had 11 goals and 28 points in 50 games with the Kings before they traded him to Tampa Bay in March. Los Angeles gets depth scoring from Perry to start another season. With Perry, Haula and Zuccarello on board, however, the Kings have looked for short-term gain rather than a long-term fit in free agency so far. Anze Kopitar retired, so the center depth chart remains an issue in Los Angeles. - J.T."}},{"id":"m6MmiJuDGp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Colorado Avalanche, report: Jaden Schwartz (UFA), 3 years, $3.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"CX1sNBkn0x","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Schwartz has put up at least 55 points in five of his 15 NHL seasons, but the last time came in 2019-20. He had 26 points in 50 games this past season. Colorado has plenty of high-end talent, so Schwartz should be an effective secondary scorer. - J.T."}},{"id":"JsMRHVP56r","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Chicago Blackhawks, report: Cole Smith (UFA), 3 years, $3 million AAV."}},{"id":"q_QVXumF3S","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Smith, 30, split last season between the Predators and Golden Knights. He had six points in 22 games during Vegas' run to the Cup final. Smith can help on the penalty kill, which is important for the Blackhawks after Ilya Mikheyev left in free agency. - J.T."}},{"id":"ZQE837wl9F","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Ottawa Senators: Samuel Ersson (RFA), 2 years, 2.2 million AAV."}},{"id":"z7aeNrvdZA","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Ersson's new contract suggests the Senators changed their opinion on 23-year-old Leevi Merilainen, who started last season in the backup role but struggled and ended up back in AHL Belleville. Merilainen may ultimately need more time to develop, but Ersson's NHL stats weren't much better in Philadelphia this past season, with an .870 SP and 3.12 GAA. If the 26-year-old has strong upside, the team needs it from him right away to take pressure off Linus Ullmark. - J.T."}},{"id":"ehL8eONhQh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Los Angeles Kings, report: Mats Zuccarello (UFA), 1 year, $6.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"wwBCDN7pQJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Zuccarello has performance bonuses on top of his base salary of $1 million, namely a $5-million bonus for playing 10 games. With 54 points in 59 games this past season, he has a lot of firepower left in his game. The playmaker should help Adrian Kempe, Quinton Byfield or Kevin Fiala score more goals. - J.T."}},{"id":"qVWTZERSkB","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Los Angeles Kings, report: Erik Haula (UFA), 2 years, $3.6 million AAV."}},{"id":"QGE8fPi9f-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Haula is a bottom-six forward who is usually good for at least 35 points, 16 minutes of average ice time and penalty-killing. In 2025-26, Haula logged the third-most penalty-killing time for the Preds, which had the fifth-best PK success rate in the NHL. - J.T."}},{"id":"xQZuMlwnIW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Seattle Kraken: Mackie Samoskevich (RFA), 3 years, 3.85 million AAV."}},{"id":"SB3V_6-Qjf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Seattle traded the 25th overall pick and a 2027 second-rounder to Florida in exchange for Samoskevich, who put up a career-high 32 points in his sophomore season. The right winger should have an increased role in Seattle, which is a scoring-by-committee club without high-end scorers. A breakout season could be in the cards. - J.T."}},{"id":"mSvFQJaKFJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vegas Golden Knights, report: Rasmus Andersson (UFA), 7 years, $8.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"K5RW9twLNS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The top UFA is off the board, and to little surprise, Andersson has re-signed in Vegas. It was expected that Vegas would have to wait until the new salary cap kicked in on July 1 before having room to re-sign Andersson. Despite seeing his production drop following the trade from Calgary, Andersson is still a strong, puck-moving, two-way defenseman who should be effective for all seven years. - J.T."}},{"id":"t3IQwGb1cy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Buffalo Sabres: Olen Zellweger (RFA), 3 years, $3.1 million AAV."}},{"id":"CR5lDDdr8S","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Sabres did well to replace Byram with Zellweger after it became clear he wanted more than $10 million annually. Zellweger is a young offensive defenseman who makes good use of his speed on the rush. His defensive play is a bit weaker than Byram's, so pairing him with a defensive defenseman, such as Matias Samuelsson or Louis Crevier, would be ideal. - J.T."}},{"id":"EtKytjbTR7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Montreal Canadiens: Ivan Demidov (contract extension), 8 years, $9.125 million AAV."}},{"id":"10yRPa_6Nu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Demidov's agent, Dan Milstein, broke the news before noon ET. Demidov makes a huge commitment to Montreal after leading NHL rookies in points, with 62. The Canadiens now have Demidov, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, Mike Matheson and Kaiden Guhle signed through at least 2031. The buy-in to this squad could put the Canadiens into Stanley Cup contention soon. - J.T. Read more"}},{"id":"kXKCR4yRm2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New Jersey Devils: Nico Hischier (contract extension), 5 years, $11.7 million AAV."}},{"id":"giSJb_456A","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"There was some doubt about whether Hischier would re-sign with New Jersey after missing the playoffs for the second time in the last four years. Just like that, the captain re-signed as soon as he was able to, giving New Jersey an elite two-way center through what should be his prime years. He's recorded at least 60 points in each of the last five years but only reached 80 points once, so that must change to make the average annual value look like a bargain. - J.T. Read more"}},{"id":"4_f5kz9zch","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Philadelphia Flyers: Dan Vladar (contract extension), 5 years, $5.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"lHZ1aK9697","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Flyers had to wait until July 1 to make this contract official. Vladar cemented himself as Philadelphia's No. 1 goalie this past season with a 2.42 goals-against average and 29-14-7 record in 51 starts. He was stellar in the playoffs as the Flyers eliminated Pittsburgh before Carolina swept them. Expect a 1A-1B tandem between Vladar and newly acquired Joseph Woll moving forward. - J.T."}},{"id":"MT5KC0MIiA","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Florida Panthers: Radko Gudas (UFA), 6 years, $1.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"AKwhCEUdGH","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Gudas will be 42 years old when his contract ends. He only played 56 games this past season due to injury and a five-game suspension for kneeing Auston Matthews, so playing for all six years is doubtful. That said, Florida was able to lower Brad Marchand's cap hit last year by signing him to a six-year contract that will expire when he's 43, so this strategy helps the Panthers keep the cap hit low. In the meantime, Gudas is a valuable veteran presence who frequently hits people and blocks shots, which will be important for the Panthers as they go all-in for another Stanley Cup win. - J.T. Read more"}},{"id":"wamGuFYtUc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Chicago Blackhawks, report: Bowen Byram (contract extension), 6 years, $12.5 million AAV. "}},{"id":"gW7_ZbjQPu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This explains why the Buffalo Sabres traded Byram, who was a second-pair defenseman on their team. It also explains why Chicago saw enough value in Byram to include the fourth overall pick in the trade – the squad sees him as a crucial No. 1 defenseman who can generate offense from the back end and quarterback a power play. Unless Byram records double the number of points as his career high of 42 set this past season, this cap hit feels too high. - J.T. Read more"}},{"id":"sGt1sJ0ajD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Ottawa Senators: Nick Cousins (UFA), 2 years, $1.5875 million AAV."}},{"id":"Oo1Y0vrNcD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Cousins provided grit in a bottom-six role with the Senators this past season, throwing 169 hits and recording nine goals and 23 points in 81 games. Sens GM Steve Staios said Cousins has been an important player inside the dressing room as well. - J.T."}},{"id":"0RuKYuXsUU","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vegas Golden Knights: Jeremy Lauzon (UFA), 6 years, $4.5 million AAV."}},{"id":"vB-L5Oxjf4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Lauzon led the NHL in hits by a defenseman this past season, with 251. The shutdown blueliner had 13 points in 68 games and was an important part of Vegas' penalty kill, which was tied for the sixth-best kill rate in the league. That's a lot of term for a third-pair defenseman. Read more"}},{"id":"gqXoG73mPc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anaheim Ducks, report: A.J. Greer (UFA) 4 years, $4.25 million AAV."}},{"id":"Y2CNzvLRNy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anaheim acquired Greer's signing rights from the Florida Panthers during the weekend. He was Florida's hits leader this past season, with 203, and his 17 goals and 32 points were career highs. Greer benefits from a rising salary cap with his new cap hit despite averaging 12:26 of ice time. My bigger question for Anaheim is why the reported 10-team no-trade clause was really needed on top of a $4.25-million cap hit. - J.T. \n\nRead more"}},{"id":"wt9rWqNqza","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Catch up on notable re-signings from the NHL draft to June 30:"}},{"id":"iiS3tR_6_a","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Islanders: Tony DeAngelo (UFA), 2 years, $4.5 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"CC5JJ8OFNy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Ottawa Senators: Jordan Spence (RFA), 4 years, $5 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"hL-b_i86WJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Colorado Avalanche: Brett Kulak (UFA), 5 years, $4.5 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"hhxjzqusx_","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Colorado Avalanche: Brent Burns (UFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"ppIMtT7RGe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Los Angeles Kings: Brandt Clarke (RFA), 5 years, $7.4 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"0IvAHZSnaw","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New York Rangers: Pavel Dorofeyev (RFA), 7 years, $11 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"hSBgPVLSd1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"San Jose Sharks: Zack Ostapchuk (RFA), 4 years, $2.35 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"8XsBmlHWNB","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Nashville Predators: Jack Drury (RFA), 5 years, $4.5 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"9xsva2m67J","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"San Jose Sharks: Michael Kesselring, (RFA), 3 years, $4.5 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"lPgweV6Mcg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Buffalo Sabres: Beck Malenstyn (UFA), 6 years, $2,916,667 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"VhSUGhBEoA","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Vegas Golden Knights: Carl Lindbom (RFA), 3 years, $900,000 AAV."}},{"id":"ZjOc_D_lBx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Toronto Maple Leafs: Troy Stecher (UFA), 2 years, $1,350,000 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"Bs8Bm5SuNQ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Utah Mammoth: Kailer Yamamoto (UFA), 2 years, $1,750,000 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"NBTa-UMG8k","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Utah Mammoth: Joshua Roy (RFA), 1 year, $850,000 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"GwEdvrRh8k","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Utah Mammoth: Nick DeSimone (UFA), 2 years, $1,000,000. Read more"}},{"id":"u4eQCKi_VJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Utah Mammoth: Sebastian Cossa (RFA), 2 years, $2 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"4pyig_khRd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Philadelphia Flyers: Carl Grundstrom (UFA), 1 year, $1,000,000 AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"KHd_hwedpP","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"New Jersey Devils: Arseny Gritsyuk (RFA), 3 years, $3.25 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"6yBU3utivs","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Minnesota Wild: Bobby Brink (unqualified RFA), 1 year, $2.75 million AAV. Read more"}},{"id":"yql_oNqrJF","type":"linkTool","data":{"link":"https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/top-50-nhl-ufas-of-2026","meta":{"title":"Top 50 NHL UFAs: Andersson, Carlson, Bobrovsky Lead 2026 Free Agency Class","site_name":"The Hockey News","url":"https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/top-50-nhl-ufas-of-2026","description":"The 2026 UFA class isn't the strongest, but make no mistake – there are needle-moving players who will reach NHL free agency.","image":{"url":"https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/bec42fd6-0e6c-4ae8-9d01-e5c246a1c939.jpeg","type":"jpeg","width":"1150","height":"493"}}}},{"id":"q2wgnSOAc_","type":"header","data":{"text":"Trade Tracker","level":2,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"OTVPnpmVwI","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Check back here for some notable trades from early in the off-season, with analysis by Jonathan Tovell."}},{"id":"ufkRPFdGBD","type":"header","data":{"text":"July 1","level":3,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"iRPdK83gU4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Detroit: Keegan Kolesar (RW)
To Vegas: 2029 third-round draft pick, 2027 seventh-round draft pick"}},{"id":"XgUpR1IWdd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Kolesar is a bottom-six forward whose 270 hits were the seventh-most in the NHL this past season. He had 17 points in 2025-26 and 30 in 2024-25. It's a depth move for Detroit, which still hasn't addressed its need for a top-two center. - J.T."}},{"id":"8lR1ddzeSX","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To NY Rangers: Marcus Pettersson (D)
To Vancouver: Conditional 2030 first-round draft pick"}},{"id":"uENr4X4f8s","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Rangers are banking on 2030 being a year of contention, not retooling. Pettersson will improve the Rangers' play in their own zone, with great IQ on defense and decent puck movement. Vancouver's rebuilding, so selling Pettersson to get another first-round pick is no surprise. - J.T."}},{"id":"H6H8bJnDn1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Boston: Will Borgen (D)
To NY Rangers: 2027 second-round draft pick, conditional 2028 third-round draft pick"}},{"id":"DRFpcAZwxq","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"With Pettersson and Sean Durzi in the fold, the Rangers give Borgen a fresh start in Boston. The Bruins add another defensive defenseman after signing Connor Clifton earlier on Wednesday. - J.T."}},{"id":"3p0jhaGuph","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Utah: Vincent Trocheck (C)
To NY Rangers: Sean Durzi (D), Cole Beaudoin (C), 2027 third-round draft pick"}},{"id":"76TMqvum5W","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"I like this trade for both teams. The Mammoth get a top-two center in the lineup right away instead of waiting to see what they can develop Beaudoin into, and they still have a decent defense corps with Mikhail Sergachev, MacKenzie Weegar and John Marino. The Rangers get a nice type of return for a retool, with a top-four, offensive D-man in Durzi, a prospect center and another draft asset. - J.T."}},{"id":"kKI4In6HJM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To San Jose: Darnell Nurse (D)
To Edmonton: Shakir Mukhamadullin (D), Zack Sharp (D)"}},{"id":"zztxZO_GzE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Oilers wanted to clear cap space, and Nurse was open to a change of scenery. Edmonton gains $9.25 million of cap space and RFA Mukhamadullin, a 6-foot-4 defenseman who could compete for a depth spot on the blueline. - J.T."}},{"id":"sI6cE8-gvJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Toronto: Nick Paul (LW)
To Tampa Bay: Dennis Hildeby (G), 2027 fourth-round draft pick, 2028 third-round draft pick"}},{"id":"kRnDEdiyry","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Hildeby had the best save percentage and goals-against average among Leafs goalies this past season, and he's only 24. But Toronto wanted Sergei Bobrovsky instead, so Hildeby is off and away to Tampa Bay. Nick Paul has been an effective middle-six forward for the Lightning, with 46 points in 2023-24 and 41 points in 2024-25. He only had 15 points in 51 games this past season, but he plays with an edge and could benefit from the change of scenery. - J.T."}},{"id":"nst6vAuaJZ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Edmonton: Devon Levi (G)
To Buffalo: 2028 third-round draft pick"}},{"id":"-JzQ2xn0E5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Levi was once among hockey's most intriguing goalie prospects after being named the best goalie in the 2021 world juniors and 2022-23 NCAA season. He played 23 NHL games in 2023-24 and ended up with a 3.10 goals-against average and .899 save percentage. He's been back playing primarily in the AHL ever since and fell down Buffalo's depth chart. Edmonton could try him out as Tristan Jarry's backup goalie next season, but if this is the extent of the Oilers' goalie moves this summer, it's not good enough on paper. - J.T."}},{"id":"E9e1NkTwpr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To NY Rangers: Joonas Korpisalo (G)
To Boston: Kalle Vaisanen (LW/RW), 2028 fourth-round draft pick"}},{"id":"THbQPAZsyM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Rangers found their new backup for Igor Shesterkin after Jonathan Quick retired. Korpisalo, 32, hasn't recorded a save percentage of at least .900 since 2022-23, but it hasn't dipped below .890, either. Rangers prospect goalie Dylan Garand is still only 24, but in three NHL games this past season, he averaged a .948 SP and 1.62 goals against. Does he still need time in AHL Hartford? - J.T."}},{"id":"EUKMr3QHC6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Pittsburgh: Nick Robertson (LW)
To Toronto: 2028 fourth-round draft pick
"}},{"id":"mGJevwTb0t","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Robertson is an RFA with arbitration rights. For his last two contracts, he waited until later in the summer to re-sign a one-year deal, and he surfaced in trade rumors and speculation. Despite putting up a career-high 32 points this past season, there was no room for Robertson in Toronto's top six. Former Leafs GM and current Penguins GM Kyle Dubas will try to turn get a breakout season out of Robertson after previously acquired project players, Anthony Mantha and Egor Chinakhov, unlocked a new level of production in Pittsburgh in 2025-26. - J.T."}},{"id":"w_hycV5RgX","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Nashville: Mavrik Bourque (RW/C), Ilya Lyubushkin (D)
To Dallas: 2027 second-round draft pick, 2028 third-round draft pick (originally from Vegas)
"}},{"id":"5kgHZyPN8u","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Bourque is an RFA who is eligible to sign an offer sheet. Based on the trade return, I doubt Bourque will be a free agent for much longer. There's a future for him in Nashville's top six if Jonathan Marchessault gets bumped down the lineup. There will be internal competition among Nashville's forwards, with Ross Colton, Jack Drury and Nils Hoglander being acquired earlier in the off-season. Lyubushkin is a defensive defenseman who could slot in on the right side of the third pairing. As for Dallas, if re-signing Jason Robertson is the priority, then there was no cap space for Bourque. - J.T."}},{"id":"eIA5yjz9Fj","type":"header","data":{"text":"Before July 1","level":3,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"I1kQVlVnMM","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Vegas: Parker Wotherspoon (D)
To Pittsburgh: Kaedan Korczak (D)"}},{"id":"AqyMuYeLwx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Florida: Jacob Markstrom (G), Angus Crookshank (LW)
To New Jersey: Evan Rodrigues (RW), Jesper Boqvist (C), Ben Steeves (LW)"}},{"id":"hxKgBnpdE-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Florida: Akira Schmid (G)
To Vegas: 2028 third-round draft pick"}},{"id":"m6azPig3E9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Florida: Radko Gudas (D)
To Anaheim: A.J. Greer (LW)"}},{"id":"IQL-XtN4Kj","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Vancouver: Brendan Gallagher (RW)
To Montreal: Future considerations
Montreal retains half of Gallagher's cap hit"}},{"id":"Mw4O6jAgqw","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Nashville: Nils Hoglander (RW)
To Vancouver: 2029 third-round pick (originally from Colorado)"}},{"id":"u3KfoZbBWy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Carolina: John Carlson (D)
To Anaheim: Kyle Masters (D), 2026 sixth-round pick"}},{"id":"h0Y5bxvUgo","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To St. Louis: Brandon Carlo (D)
To Toronto: 2026 third-round pick (originally from San Jose), 2026 third-round pick (originally from New Jersey)"}},{"id":"SSAwdM0Izl","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Utah: Sebastian Cossa (G)
To Detroit: 2026 first-round pick (originally from Boston)"}},{"id":"OmxJGbmjff","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To St. Louis: Mason McTavish (C)
To Anaheim: 2026 first-round pick (originally from Detroit), 2026 first-round pick (originally from Colorado)"}},{"id":"cWOtCl_cCC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To NY Rangers: Pavel Dorofeyev (LW)
To Vegas: 2026 first-round pick (originally from Dallas), 2026 third-round pick (originally from Buffalo), top-10 protected 2028 first-round pick"}},{"id":"4Z2OnamleC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Boston: JJ Peterka (RW)
To Utah: 2026 first-round pick, top-10 protected 2028 first-round pick (originally from Florida)"}},{"id":"iXYePkIxaa","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Ottawa: Andre Burakovsky (LW)
To Chicago: 2027 sixth-round pick"}},{"id":"PMW0Z78xUN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Buffalo: Olen Zellweger (D)
To Anaheim: Anton Wahlberg (C), 2026 second-round pick"}},{"id":"HXgG4hrS-Q","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Ottawa: Samuel Ersson (G)
To Toronto: 2027 fifth-round pick"}},{"id":"pDUDRtluGI","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Columbus: Valeri Nichushkin (RW)
To Colorado: 2026 second-round pick (originally from St. Louis), 2027 third-round pick, 2028 fifth-round pick"}},{"id":"BW2zg8K6RP","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Florida: Garnet Hathaway (RW), 2026 sixth-round pick
To Philadelphia: 2026 fifth-round pick, 2027 fourth-round pick
Philadelphia retains half of Hathaway's cap hit"}},{"id":"H6NYMAfoKt","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Washington: Alex Tuch (RW)
To Buffalo: David Kampf (C), 2027 third-round pick (originally from San Jose)"}},{"id":"5mmoo7KIAO","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Nashville: Jack Drury (C), Chase Bradley (LW), 2029 third-round pick
To Colorado: Fedor Svechkov (C), Zachary L'Heureux (LW)"}},{"id":"5-2bAx78RW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Chicago: Bowen Byram (D), Jordan Greenway (LW)
To Buffalo: Louis Crevier (D), 2026 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick"}},{"id":"dkZDsXMG0m","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Washington: Jordan Kyrou (RW)
To St. Louis: Connor McMichael (LW), Milton Gastrin (C), 2026 first-round pick"}},{"id":"uNLzcXONB2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Ottawa: William Eklund (LW), Kasper Halttunen (RW), Brandon Svoboda (C)
To San Jose: 2026 first-round pick (originally from Florida)"}},{"id":"LxwsEGxc2X","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Calgary: Simon Nemec (D), Maxim Tsyplakov (RW)
To New Jersey: Etienne Morin (D), conditional 2027 first-round pick (originally from Vegas), conditional 2028 first-round pick (originally from Colorado), 2026 second-round pick (originally from NY Rangers)"}},{"id":"u7uyz6JsZl","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Florida: Brady Tkachuk (LW)
To Ottawa: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick (originally from Tampa Bay), top-10 protected 2029 first-round pick, 2027 second-round pick"}},{"id":"-p0cL7bbJ5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To Seattle: Mackie Samoskevich (RW)
To Florida: 2026 first-round pick (originally from Tampa Bay), conditional 2027 second-round pick (originally from Winnipeg)"}},{"id":"mAZnjt49rz","type":"image","data":{"caption":"Click here to read more NHL free agency content.","withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"size":"full","alignment":"center","linkUrl":"https://thehockeynews.com/news/tag/free-agency","file":{"url":"https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/bc3edf3a-3e63-47ff-82a1-b37e220178ab.jpeg","width":1800,"height":1200}}},{"id":"sUszExuaIH","type":"header","data":{"text":"UFA Rankings","level":2,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"OlwXFKqoDN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Top 50 UFAs"}},{"id":"D6hAcXEWnC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Top Five Centers"}},{"id":"mzlkmgqE3I","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Top Five Wingers"}},{"id":"JrsN5NO_T2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Top Five Defensemen"}},{"id":"TF8Nm3JrnO","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Top Five Goalies"}},{"id":"PZzXHoZG89","type":"header","data":{"text":"More Free Agency Coverage","level":2,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"bqstLHtRY6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Red Wings And Blackhawks Could Struggle In NHL Free Agency"}},{"id":"EtR7LA8Sul","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Let The Sergei Bobrovsky Sweepstakes Begin: Best Fits In NHL Free Agency"}},{"id":"zvPVzTgj7o","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Five Future NHL RFAs Who Can Sign Contract Extensions On July 1"}},{"id":"aOGYwWozU4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- St. Louis Blues To Buy Out Jonathan Drouin's Contract"}},{"id":"S3gcYQx4Wj","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Five Intriguing NHL Players Who Didn't Receive Qualifying Offers"}},{"id":"8bPskcMWsD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Five Potential Bargain NHL Free Agents"}},{"id":"QF8Oj-fcCU","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Jason Robertson's Future Is A Mystery Heading Into The NHL Draft And Free Agency"}},{"id":"naDgv6ZyF3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Four Offer Sheet Candidates"}},{"id":"3CXwXE5SOp","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- NHL Buyers Must Beware Overpaying UFAs In Shallow Market"}},{"id":"Hp1_pbqk-U","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Toronto Maple Leafs Take Top-Scoring UFA Off The Board For Eight Years"}},{"id":"_8spZybwnq","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- Former All-Star Game Goalie Could Have Tough Time Making NHL Comeback"}},{"id":"Yi_pFwVdgo","type":"header","data":{"text":"NHL Rumor Roundup","level":2,"linkUrl":"","anchor":""}},{"id":"ZC8BAttdev","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- July 1: Latest On The Top UFAs"}},{"id":"PW1apnQi0e","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 30: Latest On Dylan Larkin, Darnell Nurse And Jesperi Kotkaniemi"}},{"id":"v5NZln0uAW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 29: What Will The Blue Jackets Do With Zach Werenski And Kirill Marchenko?"}},{"id":"5_2PIjBhJ3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 26: Latest On Connor Hellebuyck, Jason Robertson And More"}},{"id":"rm5bYz55Pc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 25: Updates On Connor Hellebuyck, Dylan Larkin, Jake DeBrusk And More"}},{"id":"ErxtbCwgfE","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 24: Updates On Jason Robertson, Dylan Larkin, Morgan Rielly And More"}},{"id":"0UHYcdXn9b","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"- June 23: Latest On Connor Hellebuyck And Sergei Bobrovsky"}},{"id":"XAw-Aj-LWR","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"Vb3av_vIhk","type":"image","data":{"caption":"For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. ","withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"size":"full","alignment":"center","linkUrl":"https://thehockeynews.store/products/print-subscription","file":{"url":"https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/bfd414ce-b06e-461c-8408-60121d02dde4.jpeg"}}},{"id":"JYTWHHEkUh","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"See more of The Hockey News on Google and save us as a preferred source. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum."}}],"version":"2.31.6"}

What the Blue Jackets Are Getting in Kent Johnson

Blue Jackets Sign Top Prospect Kent Johnson