The Carolina Hurricanes made a significant splash in the NHL free agency by signing winger Nikolaj Ehlers to a six-year deal worth an average of $8.5 million per year. Ehlers, who was ranked as the No. 3 free agent on USA TODAY's list, brings speed and offensive prowess to a Hurricanes team looking to bolster their scoring after the departures of other key players. Although he has not yet reached the 30-goal mark in his career, his consistent production in the mid to high 20s suggests he could finally hit that milestone with increased ice time in Carolina.

Along with Ehlers, several notable signings have occurred as free agency opened, such as Dmitry Orlov to the Sharks and Brent Burns to the Avalanche. Other teams made their moves as well, with the Rangers re-signing Will Cuylle and the Oilers adding depth with Andrew Mangiapane. The offseason also saw changes in the dynamics of various teams, with stars like Mitch Marner and Patrick Kane finding new homes.