Late-summer NHL chatter points to a quiet but potentially action-packed window between mid-August and September. The Pittsburgh Penguins sit at the center of talk about unfinished business, with others like the Edmonton Oilers, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, and New York Islanders all watched closely as GM decisions and season-start evaluations loom. The Buffalo Sabres surface as a target in trade talk, while teams eye their own 2026 picks in potential moves.

On the marquee, Marc-Edouard Vlasic’s Sharks buyout prompts teams to consider whom to mentor and where to upgrade the blue line, especially with Orlov and Klingberg cited as cap-space catalysts and upgrades. Montreal’s rebuild stance is noted alongside Toronto’s offensive gaps bridged by Nick Robertson and Mitch Marner. The storyline underscores a season that could begin with a batch of calculated moves rather than a full-blown fire sale, with fantasy managers parsing goaltending tandems, defensive depth, and line-shuffling implications as training camps approach.

In fantasy terms, the focus shifts to how goaltending tandems hold up, who gains top PP time, and which underperformers might be displaced by late-summer acquisitions. The window could recalibrate value across several rosters, turning watchlists into wish lists as teams test early-season depth and role clarity before the calendar turns to October.

The San Jose Sharks are actively seeking to bolster their scoring capabilities while managing their defensive roster. Recently, they signed John Klingberg and Dmitry Orlov, and claimed Nick Leddy off waivers to strengthen their backline. However, reports indicate that they are still on the hunt for a top-six forward. The team had shown interest in Nic Hague before his trade to the Nashville Predators and is now eyeing Bowen Byram as a potential target.

Looking to make strategic trades, the Sharks are considering moving defensemen Timothy Liljegren, Henry Thrun, or Mario Ferraro, with the latter possessing increased trade value closer to the deadline. Ferraro's name has been circulating in trade rumors for the past couple of seasons, and it seems the Sharks may wait for the right opportunity to leverage his value for offensive reinforcements. Meanwhile, other teams, including the Buffalo Sabres, are also in need of skilled forwards as the market for available players tightens.

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.

Dmitry Orlov has secured a two-year, $13 million deal with the San Jose Sharks, solidifying their blue line with a strong two-way defenseman. Orlov, 33, comes off a season with the Carolina Hurricanes where he recorded 28 points in 76 regular-season games. Sharks GM Mike Grier praised Orlov for his physicality, versatility, and championship experience from his time with the Washington Capitals.

Additionally, the Sharks claimed Nick Leddy off waivers from the St. Louis Blues, adding another veteran presence to their defense. Leddy brings experience and a strong playoff resume, having previously won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks. Grier emphasized the importance of balancing veteran presence with young players, including top prospect Sam Dickinson, in a rebuilding Sharks squad.

Nikolaj Ehlers has signed a six-year, $51 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, marking a significant move in the NHL free agency landscape. The speedy winger, who previously played for Winnipeg, was the top free agent in the market and will carry an $8.5 million cap hit until 2031. Ehlers joins a team that has made the playoffs for seven consecutive seasons, boasting a strong offensive core that could greatly benefit from his skills.

In other news, veteran Dmitry Orlov has signed with the San Jose Sharks for two years at $13 million, bolstering their defense. Orlov, who won a Stanley Cup with Washington, brings experience to a Sharks team that is reshaping after recent struggles. Meanwhile, Brent Burns has taken his talents to Colorado with a one-year contract, continuing his storied career as he approaches 22 seasons in the league.