where we delve into your questions on the latest offseason buzz. Keep sending your queries to @drosennhl and @NHLdotcom, tagged with #OvertheBoards.
Q: Any big trades looming this offseason, or was July 1 the peak of excitement until the season starts? – @baYsYckwrYteboY
A: It may seem quiet now, but surprises often pop up unexpectedly. Remember, two years ago, the Flames and Panthers made waves on July 22 with a major trade involving Matthew Tkachuk, Jonathan Huberdeau, and MacKenzie Weegar, well after the initial free-agent frenzy. Several big names are still unresolved, like Mitch Marner’s future with the Maple Leafs, Leon Draisaitl’s status with the Oilers, and the potential for Nikolaj Ehlers to move from the Jets. There’s also chatter around the Rangers possibly dealing Jacob Trouba and the Blue Jackets aiming to move on from Patrik Laine. These situations could brew into major trades before the season kicks off.
Q: How might a Patrik Laine trade unfold? Could it resemble the Evgeny Kuznetsov deal, with the Capitals in the mix? – @samb999
A: A deal for Laine could mirror Kuznetsov’s move to Carolina, where the Capitals shed salary and received a future draft pick. Laine, younger at 26 and boasting a higher AAV ($8.7 million), offers more upside than Kuznetsov did at 32. However, complications arise as Laine is currently under the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, affecting his availability. Columbus may need to retain salary to facilitate a move, possibly netting a second-round pick or better in return. Teams like the Capitals lack immediate cap space unless adjustments are made, potentially involving players or utilizing LTIR. Clarity on T.J. Oshie’s status could impact their decisions.
Q: How would you rate Kyle Dubas’ tenure with the Penguins so far? – @hausismojoe
A: Dubas faces a delicate balancing act in Pittsburgh, aiming to sustain competitiveness while planning for a future post-Sidney Crosby. The recent acquisition of Kevin Hayes from St. Louis, coupled with a future draft pick, highlights their dual focus on short-term performance and long-term planning. Assessing Dubas now would be premature, given the ongoing transition phase.
Q: Can the Rangers remain Stanley Cup contenders despite minimal roster changes? – @GosnellMike7
A: Absolutely. The Rangers retained key components from their Presidents’ Trophy-winning squad, reaching the conference finals last season. While they made modest adjustments, replacing Barclay Goodrow with Sam Carrick and adjusting their defensive pairings, their core remains intact. New additions like Reilly Smith could bolster their lineup, alongside prospects like Brennan Othmann. Despite quieter moves, their recent success positions them as serious contenders heading into the new season.
Q: Are you surprised the Predators opted for Scott Wedgewood over Yaroslav Askarov as Juuse Saros’ backup? – @LittlestOfMen
A:Nashville’s decision to sign Wedgewood to a two-year deal allows flexibility with Askarov, still on his entry-level contract. This move buys time to assess Askarov’s development, potentially starting him in the AHL to refine his skills. Saros and Wedgewood are set for this season, with Askarov potentially joining the lineup in 2025-26, barring any trades or adjustments.
Q: Has Buffalo made significant strides this offseason to upgrade their roster? – @MrEd315
A: The Sabres focused on bolstering their forward depth with signings like Jason Zucker, Sam Lafferty, and Nicolas Aube-Kubel, alongside acquiring Ryan McLeod and Beck Malenstyn. These additions aim to complement core players like Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power, and Dylan Cozens, pivotal in ending their playoff drought. While depth is crucial, the performance of their key players will determine their postseason aspirations.
