The Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines by acquiring winger Matias Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth, trading a conditional third-round pick in the 2027 draft. Maccelli, 24, is coming off a lackluster 18-point season but previously had a solid 2023-24 campaign with 57 points, including 17 goals and 40 assists.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers secured Kasperi Kapanen with a one-year, $1.3 million contract. Kapanen, who was claimed off waivers from the St. Louis Blues last November, recorded 14 points in 67 games during the 2024-25 regular season and contributed an overtime goal in the playoffs.

The Vancouver Canucks also made moves, re-signing four depth players who helped their AHL affiliate clinch a championship. Forwards Aatu Raty and Arshdeep Bains inked two-year contracts, while Guillaume Brisebois and Max Sasson secured one-year deals.

As the free agency window approaches, star players like Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, and Brock Boeser are expected to test the market.

The Edmonton Oilers are poised to enter negotiations with star player Connor McDavid regarding a contract extension. General Manager Stan Bowman expressed confidence in McDavid's timing, stating, "We’re very eager to do that whenever they’re ready." While discussions have yet to turn to contract specifics, Bowman emphasized that the focus has primarily been on team improvements and McDavid's input on the organization. McDavid, who has the right to decide when to engage in contract talks, is set to become a free agent after July 1.

Other teams in the league are making headlines as well, particularly the Buffalo Sabres, who may be looking to acquire defenseman Bowen Byram. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens have made it known they are open to trading Brendan Gallagher, who has two years left on his contract. The New York Islanders, on the other hand, pursued a trade involving Dmitri Voronkov before opting for a different package with the Canadiens. The off-season is heating up with numerous teams considering trades and extensions, indicating a dynamic period ahead in the NHL.

Anticipation builds as the NHL season progresses, with key players stepping up and igniting excitement across the league. As teams jockey for playoff positions, the standout performances of stars like Connor McDavid from the Edmonton Oilers and Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs are pivotal. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Matvei Michkov are proving they can compete at the highest level, leaving fantasy managers eager to adjust their rosters.

Injuries are also a concern, influencing player availability and team dynamics. The impact of crucial injuries on rosters is immense, changing projections and strategies for fantasy leagues. As the playoff race intensifies, every game counts, making it essential for fantasy enthusiasts to stay informed on player statuses and team strategies. With the trade deadline approaching, potential moves could reshape rosters, creating either opportunities or hurdles for fantasy owners.

John Tavares has agreed to a four-year contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs for a mere $17.55 million, significantly less than his previous annual salary of $11 million. This deal keeps him with the team through the 2028-29 season while capping his hit at $4.39 million, showcasing his commitment to the franchise he grew up supporting.

In a different transaction, Trent Frederic signed an impressive eight-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers valued at $30.8 million. The team aims to bolster its lineup further with a likely extension for star defenseman Evan Bouchard and is also preparing for negotiations with Connor McDavid.

Connor McDavid's recent Instagram post highlights his priorities away from the rink as he celebrates his wife Lauren and their dog Lenny's birthdays. Amid speculation regarding his future with the Edmonton Oilers, McDavid emphasizes the importance of family in his decision-making process. Despite joyful moments shared in the post, fans' comments reflect their anxieties about his potential departure from Edmonton, with many hoping he will continue to lead the Oilers toward a championship.