The Edmonton Oilers are actively pursuing a new goaltender following their struggles during the Stanley Cup Final. Despite the thin goalie market, the team is considering options such as Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, who have been evaluated for a potential return. GM Stan Bowman has indicated that while improvements are needed, acquiring a new goalie is not guaranteed at this point.

Past targets like John Gibson and current discussions surrounding Jake Allen and Alexandar Georgiev reflect the Oilers' attempts to find a solution. However, with injuries complicating trades and the salary cap considerations, the Oilers may lean towards continuity if better options do not present themselves. The situation remains fluid as they explore their options.

The Edmonton Oilers have successfully re-signed Evan Bouchard to a four-year contract valued at $42 million, securing one of their top defensemen ahead of the free agency period. This deal averages $10.5 million annually and reflects Bouchard's significant contributions during his tenure, including two consecutive Western Conference titles. Last season, he notched 14 goals and 67 points over 82 games, while also tallying 23 points in the playoffs, despite facing challenges in the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers.

At just 25 years old, Bouchard has emerged as a versatile defenseman who plays on both the power play and penalty kill. His average ice time last season reached a career-high of 23 minutes and 27 seconds, showcasing his importance to the Oilers’ defensive unit. As a former first-round pick from 2018, Bouchard's development has positioned him as a crucial asset for Edmonton as they aim for continued success in the NHL.

The Edmonton Oilers have made significant moves in the offseason, re-signing standout defenseman Evan Bouchard to a lucrative four-year, $42 million contract. Known for his powerful shot referred to as the 'Bouch Bomb,' Bouchard's impressive performance, including 18 goals and 64 assists last season, made him a key player as the Oilers reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice. His new contract secures his status as the fourth-highest paid defenseman in the NHL.

Additionally, the Oilers have re-signed winger Kasperi Kapanen for one year at $1.3 million and center Noah Philp for $775,000. With a solid roster building around their star players like Connor McDavid, the Oilers are positioning themselves as strong contenders for the upcoming season.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are parting ways with superstar winger Mitch Marner, sending him to the Vegas Golden Knights in a blockbuster deal ahead of NHL free agency. Marner's new eight-year contract totals $96 million, a strategic move as he would have been limited to a seven-year deal if he had tested the market. After a stellar nine-year run in Toronto, where he registered 741 points in 657 games, Marner leaves behind a mixed playoff legacy, struggling in critical postseason moments.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are securing their future by extending defenseman Evan Bouchard with a four-year, $42 million contract. Bouchard has emerged as a key player for the Oilers, known for his powerful shot, contributing significantly in both regular and playoff performances. Other notable moves include the re-signing of winger Kasperi Kapanen and the acquisition of Matias Maccelli by the Maple Leafs, showcasing the frantic activity leading up to free agency.

Matthew Schaefer, the New York Islanders' first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, made his debut on the ice at the Isles' development camp, eager to secure a spot on the opening night roster. The 17-year-old defenseman expressed excitement about training alongside NHL players, emphasizing the importance of preparation and hard work after achieving his dream of being drafted. Schaefer reflected on his recovery from a collarbone injury sustained during the World Junior Championship, marking this as his first team practice in months.

Receiving support from established NHL players, including Connor McDavid and Matthew Tkachuk, Schaefer appreciates the guidance from former Islanders like Johnny Boychuk and Dennis Seidenberg. He aims to refine his skills, particularly in defensive play, and looks forward to participating in the Islanders' upcoming Blue & Orange Scrimmage to showcase his progress.