
Makar’s $20 Million Deal Sets the Stage for a Busy NHL Off-Season
As the NHL's July 1 deadline looms, top defenseman Cale Makar's looming $20 million contract and a cascade of high-profile negotiations reshape the league's financial landscape.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Leon Draisaitl across Hockey, Soccer.

As the NHL's July 1 deadline looms, top defenseman Cale Makar's looming $20 million contract and a cascade of high-profile negotiations reshape the league's financial landscape.

The Minnesota Wild are working to bring back defenseman Quinn Hughes on a three‑year deal, a move that aligns with the end of his brother’s contract and aims to maximize the club’s championship window amid a rising salary cap.

The Edmonton Oilers have appointed Mike Babcock as head coach after the NHL cleared him following an investigation. The move, championed by CEO Jeff Jackson and supported by league commissioner Gary Bettman, comes amid criticism from former players and a history of polarizing coaching methods.

Edmonton’s front office has secured Connor Murphy through 2029, a move that follows Jason Dickinson’s extension and signals a deliberate push to sharpen a defense that could finally unlock a championship for Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are reshaping their roster this summer, targeting restricted free agents, exploring bold trades, and the GM reflects on a memorable motorcycle journey that underscores the season's promise.

Nikita Kucherov edged out Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon for the Hart Trophy, while Zach Werenski captured the Norris Trophy and rookie Macklin Celebrini earned notable first‑place votes.
The Kings have overhauled their roster and hired Peter Laviolette, but questions linger about depth, talent gaps, and whether the moves can translate into playoff success.

The Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch is poised to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent, sparking speculation across the NHL as teams like the Oilers, Devils, Bruins, Blackhawks and Kraken evaluate how his skill set could address their specific gaps.

A look at the growing speculation surrounding Darnell Nurse’s potential move, the Oilers’ cap constraints, and the Penguins’ pursuit of a defensive upgrade.

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse has formally asked for a trade, and early reports suggest the Pittsburgh Penguins are among his preferred destinations. The potential move raises questions about salary cap implications, fit with Penguins’ roster, and the assets required to make it happen.

Matt McIlvane, a seasoned coach with international experience, has accepted an assistant coaching role with the Boston Bruins for the 2026‑27 season, bringing a proven track record of defensive development and player communication.

The Edmonton Oilers defenseman has hinted at a shortlist of suitors while the club navigates a coaching change and a captain’s renewed commitment to a championship run.

With the trade deadline approaching, Dylan Larkin’s future is the subject of intense speculation, as clubs from Minnesota to Montreal evaluate a potential deal.

A look at how Cassidy’s potential move could reshape the coaching landscape ahead of the Stanley Cup Finals.

Canada's teams have gone 33 years without a Stanley Cup, while U.S. Sun Belt franchises have captured 11 of the last 27 championships. Revenue has surged from $400 million to $8 billion, and the player base is becoming increasingly American. The Montreal Canadiens remain the best hope for ending the drought, but internal improvement is seen as the key path forward.

The Edmonton Oilers are weighing a potential reversal on hiring Mike Babcock after the NHL Players' Association demanded a fresh probe into his conduct with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Minnesota’s search for a top‑line center intensifies with rumors linking star forward Dylan Larkin to a move north, sparking debate over the cost and potential impact.

The latest episode of The Hockey News Big Show brings together former NHLer Drew Shore, analyst Ryan Kennedy, and commentator Michael Traikos to unpack Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final, examine Frederik Andersen’s performance, and explore potential coaching fits for the Toronto Maple Leafs, while also touching on All‑Star format changes and NCAA eligibility proposals.

The Hockey News Big Show examines the Knights’ resurgence, Andersen’s performance, and potential Leafs coaching moves ahead of Game 2.

Seattle Kraken prospects Julius Miettinen and Alexis Bernier, fresh from championship triumphs, prepare to clash at the 2026 Memorial Cup in Kelowna, BC, as the tournament’s mental demands take center stage.

The tournament opens in Switzerland with 16 nations competing for the championship, featuring powerhouse lineups and emerging talents.

The tournament begins in Switzerland with sixteen nations competing for glory, featuring a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising challengers.

The Edmonton Oilers have dismissed head coach Kris Knoblauch and assistant Mark Stuart, opening the door for veteran Bruce Cassidy to potentially take the helm and reshape a roster that has struggled with impulsive decisions.

A look at the eight Boston Bruins participants, their national assignments, debuts and storylines heading into the 2026 IIHF World Championships in Zurich and Fribourg.