The San Jose Sharks are making significant moves to bolster their defensive lineup, recently claiming Nick Leddy off waivers and signing Dmitry Orlov. With at least eight defensemen under contract, the Sharks now feature Mario Ferraro, who can play both sides. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers secured Christian Dvorak on a one-year deal, despite the player having multiple offers for longer contracts. The Flyers intend to keep Dvorak unless their playoff chances dwindle at the trade deadline.

In other news, the Nashville Predators are focused on enhancing their blue line. GM Barry Trotz has added size with Nic Hague and Nick Perbix but admits the team remains light on center options, leaving pressure on wingers to produce more offense. He emphasizes the need for gradual rebuilding to compete effectively.

The Nashville Predators' recent draft selections have sparked excitement, particularly for Cameron Reid, who was picked 21st overall in 2025. Reid is thrilled to join the organization alongside his childhood friend Brady Martin, the 5th overall pick. Both players previously competed in the Ontario Hockey League and now share the journey of entering the professional arena together. Reid expressed his motivation to perform well amidst the competitive environment of the Predators' development camp.

As he settles into the new surroundings, Reid reflects on this significant milestone, emphasizing the rarity of such an experience. Both he and Martin are eager to make their mark on the team, demonstrating their skills as they vie for roster spots. Reid's dedication to improving each day indicates his readiness to embrace the challenges ahead in his NHL career.

Ryan Lindgren, newly signed by the Seattle Kraken to a four-year, $18 million deal, is ready to enhance the team's blue line, moving beyond a challenging previous season. Known for his defensive skills, Lindgren emphasizes his role in preventing goals rather than scoring them, carrying a career total of just 14 goals in over 400 games. He aims to build chemistry with fellow defensemen during training camp, especially after being used to playing alongside notable talent like Adam Fox in New York.

The Kraken struggled defensively last season, allowing an average of 3.20 goals per game, and Lindgren's experience and shot-blocking ability could be crucial in improving their statistics. He acknowledges the challenges of injuries, particularly a broken jaw last season, but reports feeling physically fit and ready to compete.

Matt Murray, former goaltender for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Seattle Kraken after a challenging tenure in Toronto marked by injuries and limited play. During the previous season, he showcased his potential in the AHL, boasting a 1.72 GAA and a .934 save percentage over 21 games with the Toronto Marlies. Despite appearing in just two NHL games, where he struggled with a 3.54 GAA, Murray's pedigree as a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins fuels hopes for a resurgence in Seattle.

Kraken GM Jason Botterill expressed excitement over Murray's signing, noting his veteran experience and competitive spirit. With Philipp Grubauer's inconsistent performance last season, Murray’s addition offers valuable depth in the Kraken's goaltending lineup, especially as Grubauer prepares for the upcoming Olympics. Murray's health following bilateral hip surgery will be crucial as he seeks to reclaim his position in the NHL.

The Nashville Predators made significant moves during the first day of NHL free agency, focusing primarily on strengthening their defense after last season's struggles. General Manager Barry Trotz emphasized the importance of defensive fortification, stating, "If you can't defend, you can't win." The team acquired defensemen Nicolas Hague and Nick Perbix to bolster a defense that lacked size and reliability last year.

Hague, a towering 6-foot-6 defenseman, was obtained from the Vegas Golden Knights and is set to earn $22 million over four years. Perbix, standing at 6-foot-2, adds further depth, signing a two-year, $5.5 million deal. The Predators’ defense will now rely on a mix of veterans and younger players, aiming for better performance with less reliance on minor league talent.