
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 Morgan Rielly across Hockey.

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.

In a recent discussion, analyst Jason Demers explored a potential trade for Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski, evaluated the cost, and examined other defensive upgrades and untouchable players for the San Jose Sharks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs dealt defenseman Brandon Carlo to the St. Louis Blues for two third‑round picks, a transaction that reflects GM John Chayka’s overhaul of the team’s blue line and addresses the Blues’ need for a seasoned right‑shot.

With high‑profile offers on the table and veteran players eyeing new destinations, the NHL offseason trade market is poised for major shifts before the upcoming draft.

A panel of hockey insiders explores the rising stars, potential trades, and contract talks that will shape the 2026 NHL draft and beyond.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are exploring trades for several high‑profile forwards and defensemen, weighing cost, fit and long‑term strategy.

A concise look at the most consequential trades, from the Maple Leafs’ goalie shuffle to the Panthers’ acquisition of Brady Tkachuk, and what they mean for fantasy lineups.

From Connor McDavid's early warnings to Brady Tkachuk's blockbuster trade, the NHL is witnessing a cultural shift as top talent seeks superteams and control over their careers.

The NHL offseason has already delivered a flurry of headlines, from blockbuster trade rumors to unexpected free‑agency decisions that could reshape next season’s rosters.

Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka addressed questions about winger Matthew Knies and defenseman Morgan Rielly, highlighting contract details and potential trade scenarios.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have secured Darren Raddysh on an eight‑year deal, while the NHL’s buyout window opens amid a flurry of player moves and the return of veteran coach Mike Babcock to Edmonton.

Veteran defenseman Radko Gudas, 36, is generating league‑wide interest after a 13‑point, 56‑game season with the Ducks. With 657 hits and 420 blocks to his name, he could command a two‑ to three‑year deal averaging $3.5 million to $4 million, prompting the Panthers and Maple Leafs to consider a fit.

The upcoming NHL draft, a volatile trade market, a thin free‑agency pool and a flurry of coaching changes set the stage for a pivotal offseason, highlighted by the Carolina Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup triumph and the first handoff of the trophy by Frederik Andersen

The Carolina Hurricanes lead the league, but the upcoming offseason will be defined by cap‑driven maneuvers, high‑profile trades, and a draft class poised to reshape the landscape.

The Carolina Hurricanes lead the league while salary‑cap growth fuels speculation over player movement, draft prospects and upcoming free‑agency signings.

The Carolina Hurricanes sit atop the NHL standings while teams across the league navigate contract buyouts, potential trades and a looming draft that could redefine their futures.
With a looming need for right‑side defense and penalty‑killing prowess, the San Jose Sharks are exploring a deal for Brandon Carlo, a towering stay‑at‑home blueliner whose contract expires next summer.

The Boston Bruins have hired Matt McIlvane to fill their assistant coaching vacancy, while the Carolina Hurricanes inch closer to their first championship in 20 years, highlighted by Jordan Staal's unprecedented goal‑in‑each‑game streak.

Dylan Larkin's three‑team list, Minnesota's cap advantage, Vegas's limitations, Florida's dilemma over Anton Lundell, potential offer‑sheet candidates, Brendan Gallagher's interest in Vancouver, and the Blackhawks' hunt for a veteran left‑shot defenseman dominate the latest chatter.

The Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs are at the center of trade speculation, as looming contracts and a thin free‑agent goalie market shape potential moves for Mason McTavish, Olen Zellweger, Matthew Knies, Morgan Rielly and several netminders.

In a tightly contested quarterfinal at the 2026 IIHF Men's Ice Hockey World Championship, Canada’s net‑minders and defensemen held the United States at bay in Fribourg, securing a pivotal victory.

Canada defeats the United States 4‑0 in the IIHF World Championship quarterfinal, but the U.S. remains the top hockey nation after its Olympic gold.

Canada defeated Slovenia 3‑1 in Fribourg, while Germany beat Hungary 6‑2, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Canada‑Slovakia clash.

Canada defeated Denmark 5‑1 in the 2026 IIHF World Championship preliminary round, highlighted by Sidney Crosby's four assists and a strong offensive display.