The Minnesota Wild are on the verge of signing defenseman Zeev Buium to an entry-level contract, likely allowing him to hit the ice for practice this Monday. Buium could make his NHL debut as early as Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes aim to expedite Alexander Nikishin's visa process, hoping to integrate him into their lineup against Montreal and Ottawa this week. Should visa issues arise, the Hurricanes could opt to send him to their AHL affiliate in Chicago. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Lightning face a dilemma with top prospect Isaac Howard, who has decided to return to Michigan State instead of signing an entry-level contract. The Lightning may need to consider trading his rights ahead of the deadline to prevent losing him to free agency in 2026.