The Buffalo Sabres are actively pursuing the addition of a veteran defenseman as they aim to strengthen their roster. Both forward JJ Peterka and defenseman Bowen Byram have been identified as potential trade assets to facilitate the acquisition of a much-needed blueliner. The Sabres' current defensive lineup lacks depth and experience, making this move essential for bolstering their chances of success in the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils are prioritizing contract negotiations with key restricted free agents, including Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald has confirmed that dialogue with agents has begun as they seek to secure the future of these young talents while balancing their salary cap constraints. The Devils are also evaluating their free-agent situation, which includes several potential departures, and examining the trade market for further improvements.

As the NHL offseason approaches, attention shifts to the top restricted free agents who are set to negotiate new contracts. Leading the list is Evan Bouchard of the Edmonton Oilers, whose solid playoff performance may bolster his asking price, potentially reaching $10 million annually despite a dip in regular-season points. Luke Hughes and Noah Dobson are also in the spotlight, with Hughes possibly securing a bridge deal around $5 million and Dobson eyeing an eight-year contract worth around $8 million per season.

Younger players like Matthew Knies of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Gabriel Vilardi from the Winnipeg Jets are expected to seek long-term contracts as well, hinting at a wave of contract negotiations that could reshape team dynamics. Meanwhile, K'Andre Miller of the New York Rangers faces cap constraints that may complicate his contract discussions, as the team looks to balance their budget while retaining key players.

Quinn Hughes’ future with the Vancouver Canucks is now a hot topic among NHL analysts and fans alike, particularly with the recent departure of head coach Rick Tocchet and the uncertainty surrounding the team's direction. Hughes, who is under contract for two more seasons, has expressed a desire to play alongside his brothers, Jack and Luke Hughes, both of whom are key players for the New Jersey Devils. Analyst Pierre McGuire suggests there may be more truth to the rumors of Quinn potentially moving to New Jersey, given Canucks president Jim Rutherford's recent remarks about the situation.

With a standout season behind him, where he tallied 76 points in 68 games and was a finalist for the Norris Trophy, Hughes has solidified his status as one of the league's elite defensemen. As the Canucks aim to keep him in Vancouver, they have to contend with the possibility of losing their captain to a team where he could reunite with family. The situation is further complicated by the lack of clarity on the Canucks' coaching staff and overall strategy moving forward, which could influence Hughes' decision.

The Carolina Hurricanes are facing significant injury concerns heading into their next game. Goaltender Frederik Andersen was absent from the morning skate, with coach Rod Brind'Amour stating he is day-to-day. Spencer Martin took his place on the ice. Additionally, forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi is nursing a cut above his eye from a previous match. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars report that Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson are both in stable condition regarding their injuries.

In other news, Marcus Johansson returned from a lower-body injury for the Minnesota Wild, while Filip Gustavsson missed the third period of his last game due to an illness. The New Jersey Devils have confirmed Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon will miss the series. The St. Louis Blues' Tyler Tucker is also day-to-day after an injury, and Tampa Bay Lightning's Brandon Hagel will not play in their upcoming game. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets are hopeful for Nikolaj Ehlers' return soon, although he is still considered week-to-week.

The New Jersey Devils face significant challenges as defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon have been ruled out for Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes due to injuries suffered in Game 1. Coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed both players did not participate in the morning skate, and their absence adds to the team's struggles, already missing top center Jack Hughes and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler.

In their place, Simon Nemec and Dennis Cholowski will make their playoff debuts. The Devils need to enhance their performance after a disappointing 4-1 loss in the series opener, where they were outshot and struggled to find their rhythm. With Cody Glass cleared to play, the team will rely on its depth and resilience to bounce back against a formidable Hurricanes squad.