Several NHL players are preparing for salary arbitration hearings, with key dates approaching. Among them, Arvid Soderblom (Chicago Blackhawks) will present his case on July 28, and Maxim Tsyplakov (New York Islanders) follows on July 29. Dylan Samberg (Winnipeg Jets) and Conor Timmins (Buffalo Sabres) will have their hearings on July 30 and August 2, respectively. Notably, Nick Robertson (Toronto Maple Leafs) and Jayden Struble (Montreal Canadiens) are scheduled for August 3. The Montreal Canadiens are expected to finalize terms with Struble ahead of the hearing date.

In contract news, the Seattle Kraken successfully re-signed Kaapo Kakko to a three-year deal worth $4.525 million, steering clear of arbitration. Kraken GM Jason Botterill expressed enthusiasm about Kakko's contributions to the team, citing his size, skill, and playmaking ability. Meanwhile, Adrian Kempe's negotiations could set a precedent for Kyle Connor's market value as both players seek new deals. Additionally, Porter Martone, a notable draft prospect, has decided to move from the OHL to the NCAA, committing to Michigan State.

Kaapo Kakko has officially joined the Seattle Kraken, signing a three-year contract worth an average of $4.525 million per season. Acquired from the New York Rangers in December 2022, Kakko showcased his skills last season, achieving a career-high 44 points with the Rangers and Kraken combined. The 24-year-old Finnish forward registered 10 goals and 20 assists in 49 games with Seattle, demonstrating his effectiveness and adaptability in the lineup.

Kraken GM Jason Botterill emphasized Kakko's potential, praising his size, skill, and playmaking abilities. Kakko was pivotal in Seattle's offense, tying for second in points and showcasing his value on the power play. His ability to step up in crucial moments, including a three-assist game against the Kings, solidified his role as a key player for the Kraken moving forward.

Kaapo Kakko has officially signed a three-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, valued at an average of $4.525 million annually. Acquired from the New York Rangers, Kakko's performance last season was highlighted by a career-high 44 points, including 14 goals and 30 assists. Kraken GM Jason Botterill emphasized Kakko's significant role moving forward, praising his skill and size. During the last season, he contributed 10 goals and 20 assists in 49 games with the Kraken.

His notable gameplay includes tying his career-high with three assists in a single game against the Los Angeles Kings. Kakko's efforts positioned him among Seattle's top scorers, showcasing potential for further contributions to the team's success.

Kaapo Kakko has signed a three-year deal with the Seattle Kraken, worth an annual average of $4.525 million. The 24-year-old forward was acquired from the New York Rangers in December, and he showcased his potential last season with a career-high 44 points, including 14 goals and 30 assists across 79 games. For Seattle, he recorded 10 goals and 20 assists in 49 games, demonstrating his playmaking skills and adaptability. General Manager Jason Botterill emphasized Kakko’s size, skill, and ability to mesh with the team, making him a crucial part of the Kraken’s future.

Gabriel Vilardi, a forward for the Winnipeg Jets, joined 10 other NHL players in filing for salary arbitration, aiming to negotiate a contract that better reflects his recent performance. Last season, Vilardi achieved personal bests with 27 goals and 61 points in 71 games. Among those also filing are notable names like Kaapo Kakko from the Seattle Kraken and Lukas Dostal of the Anaheim Ducks. The arbitration deadline is set for 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, with hearings scheduled between July 20 and August 4.

The outcomes of these hearings can vary; last year, only one player, defenseman Spencer Stastney of the Nashville Predators, received a contract through arbitration. This year’s arbitration filings come amidst a competitive landscape, where young talent is increasingly being evaluated against their recent contributions.