The NHL offseason is witnessing significant roster changes as teams maneuver around the salary cap, utilizing buyouts and trades to reshape their lineups. These moves not only affect the financial landscape but also create opportunities for fantasy hockey managers to identify undervalued players and potential breakout prospects. The impact extends beyond mere transactions; resources like Sleeper Fantasy provide analytics, projections, and injury updates that can give managers an edge in competitive leagues.

Among the notable changes, Marc-Edouard Vlasic's buyout marks the end of an era for the San Jose Sharks, paving the way for young talents such as Shakir Mukhamadullin and Henry Thrun to step into more significant roles. Similarly, Matt Dumba's trade to the Pittsburgh Penguins has opened avenues for Dallas Stars' defensive prospects, including Lian Bichsel, to shine. Joe Veleno's recent transactions serve as a reminder of the importance of tracking real-time updates to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

The Montreal Canadiens have secured forward Joe Veleno with a one-year contract. The 25-year-old, hailing from Montreal, tallied eight goals and nine assists over 74 games last season, split between Detroit and Chicago. After arriving with the Blackhawks at the trade deadline, he contributed three goals and four assists in 18 games.

Selected 30th overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, Veleno has accumulated 38 goals and 43 assists in 306 NHL games. Notably, he set personal bests in goals (12), assists (16), and points (28) during the 2023-24 season. Recognized for his early talent, he became the first player from Quebec to receive exceptional player status, enabling him to play major junior hockey at just 15 years old.

The Philadelphia Flyers are actively exploring options to bolster their roster following the missed signing of KHL forward Maxim Shabanov to the New York Islanders. Options on the table include utilizing Ryan Ellis on LTIR for extra cap space and pursuing trades or free agents. Among the potential targets are Joe Veleno, a buy-low center, and Jeff Skinner, who could add scoring to the left side. Gabe Vilardi and Bowen Byram are intriguing RFA targets, though acquiring them would require significant cap maneuvering.

Additionally, the Flyers are looking at the implications of offer sheet threats like those posed by the Carolina Hurricanes on players like Evan Bouchard. With several high-profile players available, the Flyers face tough decisions to improve their standing.

Claude Giroux will remain with the Ottawa Senators for another season after signing a one-year contract worth $2 million, with additional incentives. The veteran forward, who has played 18 seasons in the NHL, contributed 50 points in the past season, significantly aiding the Senators' return to the playoffs for the first time in eight years.

Meanwhile, Dante Fabbro has secured a four-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets for $16.5 million after impressing since his acquisition from Nashville. In contrast, Conor Sheary was placed on waivers by the Tampa Bay Lightning for contract termination; he managed only five games last season due to injuries and salary cap constraints.

Claude Giroux remains with the Ottawa Senators after signing a one-year deal worth $2 million, with $2.75 million in bonuses available. The veteran forward, who has 18 seasons of experience, scored 50 points last season, leading the Senators to their first playoff appearance in eight years. Meanwhile, Dante Fabbro has secured a four-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets for $16.5 million after showing promise with a career-high 26 points last season. However, Conor Sheary's time with the Tampa Bay Lightning has ended as he was placed on unconditional waivers for a contract termination. Lastly, Joe Veleno was bought out by the Seattle Kraken, and Ville Husso extended his contract with the Anaheim Ducks.