The NHL offseason is heating up as several teams engage in contract negotiations and explore free agency options. The Ottawa Senators are in discussions with forward Adam Gaudette, who is poised to enter free agency if a deal isn't reached soon. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers are reportedly considering a move for Christian Dvorak to bolster their depth in the forward lineup.

Dallas Stars remain committed to retaining Mikael Granlund amid increasing competition for his services, while defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov has caught the attention of multiple teams as he heads towards free agency. The Buffalo Sabres are also set to sign goaltender Alex Lyon, who aims to secure a backup position after a respectable season with the Red Wings. Finally, the Vancouver Canucks are pursuing a contract extension for Thatcher Demko while also searching for a centerman, highlighting the busy nature of this offseason.

The Vancouver Canucks are nearing an extension agreement with goaltender Thatcher Demko, with sources indicating that both parties have settled on the contract's term, and only financial details remain to be finalized. This development comes just as Demko becomes eligible to sign a new deal.

In other news, the Ottawa Senators are in discussions with two of their pending unrestricted free agents, Adam Gaudette and Nick Cousins, as they aim to solidify their roster ahead of the deadline. Meanwhile, Brad Marchand's future is uncertain, with speculation about potential interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs and a possible return to the Boston Bruins, though he is currently focused on negotiating terms with the Florida Panthers.

The Dallas Stars have made key moves in the offseason, notably trading Mason Marchment to the Seattle Kraken for mid-round draft picks. With this, GM Jim Nill has freed up some cap space while focusing on signing essential players like Jamie Benn. The Stars are facing some tough decisions with only 18 players signed and approximately $2.76 million in cap space, contemplating potential buyouts and team-friendly deals.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers are exploring center options, dealing with dead money and a crowded winger roster. They might prioritize depth signings over a splashy acquisition, with Adam Gaudette and Cam York being potential targets.

The Ottawa Senators are in discussions with forward Claude Giroux, although reports indicate that talks have reached a stalemate. The team aims to finalize a one-year contract, likely around $3 million, with potential bonuses increasing the total to between $4.5 to $5 million. Giroux prioritizes remaining in Ottawa to be close to family, but there’s speculation he might also consider the Montreal Canadiens as an alternative. Meanwhile, pending free agents Adam Gaudette and Anton Forsberg might not return, as Gaudette could secure a longer-term deal elsewhere and Forsberg is expected to test the market.

On another note, the Philadelphia Flyers are exploring trade opportunities but are cautious about overextending their assets. GM Daniel Briere has expressed a strategic approach, emphasizing the need for trades to align with the team’s long-term plans. This cautious strategy reflects the ongoing efforts for improvement without compromising the team's future.

The Ottawa Senators are focusing on building a solid team foundation, aiming to return to the playoffs next season. General Manager Steve Staios faces the challenge of retaining key players, including Claude Giroux, who is currently in negotiations to re-sign. Other pending free agents include Nick Cousins, Adam Gaudette, and Anton Forsberg, although financial constraints may limit the Senators' ability to keep all of them.

While the organization aims to keep its core together, it recognizes that balancing contracts and maintaining competitive depth will be crucial in the upcoming free agency period and the NHL Draft. The Senators are optimistic about their prospects, reflecting on their progress and the support from their fanbase.