William Eklund has officially inked a three-year, $16.8 million contract with the San Jose Sharks, set to commence in the 2026-27 season. The deal averages $5.6 million annually, a significant commitment for the young forward.

At just 22 years old, Eklund is coming off a career-best season where he achieved 58 points, including 17 goals and 41 assists, alongside two game-winning goals. Drafted seventh overall by the Sharks in the 2021 NHL Draft, he has accumulated 110 points in 174 career games with the team, showcasing his potential as a key player for the franchise.

The Montreal Canadiens are evaluating their forward roster options as they aim to enhance their team for the upcoming season. GM Kent Hughes expressed uncertainty about their ability to execute trades or secure free agents, emphasizing a commitment to improvement. Meanwhile, the New York Islanders attempted to acquire the Sharks' No. 2 pick in exchange for Noah Dobson, but the Sharks declined, signaling their focus on future prospects rather than immediate trades.

Trade talks also involve Bowen Byram with the Buffalo Sabres, who seek immediate roster help. The New York Rangers are eyeing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov and forward Jonathan Drouin, depending on salary maneuvers. Gavrikov is a highly sought UFA, with the Rangers needing to manage their cap space effectively. The NHL landscape is heating up as teams strategize for the future.

The 2025 NHL Draft showcased the rising talent from Michigan State University, with five Spartans selected in the first three rounds. Ryker Lee, named USHL Player of the Year, was picked 26th overall by the Nashville Predators. Hot on his heels, Mason West was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks at 29th after they traded up. Lee and West bring impressive credentials, with Lee tallying 31 goals last season and West known for his impressive size at 6'6". Other notable picks included Eric Nilson at 45 by the Anaheim Ducks, and Shane Vansaghi at 48 by the Philadelphia Flyers. MSU’s Brady Peddle was drafted 91st overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins, while Max Heise went to the San Jose Sharks in the fifth round at 150. The draft solidifies MSU's reputation as a breeding ground for NHL talent, now housing 13 drafted players for the upcoming season.

The 2025 NHL Draft was a spectacle of emotion and surprise, highlighted by the first overall pick, Matthew Schaefer, who honored his late mother with a touching tribute that resonated throughout the event. The New York Islanders made Schaefer's moment unforgettable with a customized jersey that featured a Hockey Fights Cancer ribbon and his mother's initials, showcasing the human side of the sport. Meanwhile, the Anaheim Ducks made headlines with their innovative pick reveal for Roger McQueen, which involved a helicopter ride to Disneyland, further enhancing the excitement of the day.

The draft marked a significant return of goaltenders to the first round, as two were selected for the first time in four years, sparking discussions about the trend's longevity. The Columbus Blue Jackets and San Jose Sharks made noteworthy selections, bolstering their future rosters with promising talent. Each team's strategy was under scrutiny, but the general sentiment was one of optimism, particularly for franchises like the Sharks, who are slowly rebuilding with a bright future ahead. The culmination of this draft was not just about selections, but the moments that touched hearts and emphasized the league's commitment to its players' journeys.

Simon Wang made history as the highest-drafted player from China, selected 33rd overall by the San Jose Sharks in the NHL Draft. This moment, he remarked, is not just for him but for his family and the growing hockey scene in China. Wang's journey from Beijing to Toronto at age 12 fueled his hockey ambitions, despite limited initial buzz about his potential.

Wang aims to emulate two-way defenseman greats like Victor Hedman and Colton Parayko. His development surged last season, particularly during his time with the OHL's Oshawa Generals. Exciting trades marked the draft, including the Anaheim Ducks trading goaltender John Gibson to Detroit, while more young prospects like Alexis Mathieu and Aidan Park were also highlighted.