The NHL offseason is kicking into high gear, with teams scrambling to lock down talent before free agency opens on July 1.
In a heartwarming homecoming story, Jonathan Toews is heading back to his roots. The former Chicago Blackhawks captain will sign with his hometown Winnipeg Jets after two years away from the NHL.
Toews isn’t just any hometown hero – he’s a three-time Stanley Cup champion who’s racked up an impressive 883 points in his career, including 372 goals.
The Dallas Stars aren’t waiting around after their third straight Western Conference Final disappointment. They’ve already locked up Matt Duchene to a four-year deal worth $18 million, keeping the veteran forward in Dallas through 2028.
It’s been money well spent for the Stars. Duchene put up career numbers this season with 30 goals and 52 assists, leading the team in scoring.
The Colorado Avalanche made a big move too, signing Brock Nelson to a three-year extension worth $7.5 million per year. The 33-year-old center proved his worth after coming over from the Islanders at the trade deadline, putting up 13 points in just 19 games.
But the biggest fireworks might still be ahead.
When free agency opens at noon ET on July 1, all eyes will be on Toronto’s Mitch Marner, who’s expected to be this summer’s top prize. Other big names hitting the market include Florida’s Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad, plus Vancouver’s Brock Boeser.
For Nelson in Colorado, the deal makes sense for both sides. He’ll likely center the second line between Gabriel Landeskog and Valeri Nichushkin, giving the Avs the depth they need to make another Cup run.
The 34-year-old veteran showed he’s still got plenty left in the tank, putting up 56 points split between New York and Colorado last season.
Teams aren’t just waiting for July 1 though – expect plenty of trades and early signings as clubs try to get ahead of what’s shaping up to be one of the most active NHL offseasons in recent memory.
