Nick Bjugstad has signed a two-year contract with the St. Louis Blues, valued at $3.5 million. The deal averages $1.75 million annually. The 32-year-old forward managed to score 19 points last season, comprising 8 goals and 11 assists in 66 games for Utah. Bjugstad's career began when he was selected by the Florida Panthers in the first round of the 2010 NHL Draft and has since accumulated 330 points from 760 regular-season games played across multiple teams including the Panthers, Penguins, and Oilers.

With playoff experience, including 27 games and 8 points, Bjugstad brings valuable depth to the Blues as they look to enhance their offensive capabilities. His blend of size and skill could complement the Blues' existing roster, which is aiming for stronger offensive production in the upcoming season.

The Dallas Stars have officially re-signed center Radek Faksa to a three-year contract, valued at $2 million annually. This move marks a return for Faksa, who spent his entire NHL career with the Stars until his trade to the St. Louis Blues last offseason.

Faksa, known for his strong face-off skills and penalty killing ability, is expected to add depth to the Stars' roster, likely centering their fourth line. General manager Jim Nill expressed enthusiasm about bringing back Faksa, noting his valuable experience and mentorship capabilities for younger players on the team.

This week’s fantasy hockey landscape is heating up with numerous implications stemming from key player performances and injury updates. The New York Rangers' Igor Shesterkin continues to be a top-tier goalie, showcasing exceptional skills with a .920 save percentage, which makes him a must-start in any fantasy lineup. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon is proving to be a reliable offensive force, consistently contributing points and aiding in the team's playoff push. His current production rate is pivotal, making him a high-value asset for fantasy managers.

In addition, the St. Louis Blues' Robert Thomas has emerged as a solid playmaker, recording significant assists and contributing to the team’s overall scoring. His recent form indicates that he could be a valuable pick-up for those looking to bolster their forward ranks. Not to be overlooked, the Ottawa Senators' Tim Stutzle has shown glimpses of brilliance, and with a favorable schedule ahead, he could offer great upside for fantasy rosters.

Zack Bolduc has been traded from the St. Louis Blues to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Logan Mailloux. Bolduc, a 22-year-old forward, had a productive season with 36 points, ranking him fourth among NHL rookies in goals. His solid performance included a plus-20 differential, indicating his effectiveness on the ice. Furthermore, Bolduc’s potential as a restricted free agent next season adds to his value. Meanwhile, Mailloux, also 22, has played eight NHL games with Montreal, showing promise with five points. This trade reflects both teams' strategic moves to enhance their rosters.

In a surprising move just before NHL free agency opened, the Montreal Canadiens have acquired Zack Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for defenseman Logan Mailloux. Bolduc expressed his mixed emotions, noting his excitement to join the team he grew up cheering for but cherishing his time in St. Louis. Last season, Bolduc made a strong impression with 19 goals and 17 assists, showcasing his skating and offensive skills.

Canadiens GM Kent Hughes emphasized Bolduc's potential, highlighting his growth as a physical player and his impressive junior stats. The trade comes as part of the Canadiens' broader strategy to enhance their roster, having also signed defenseman Noah Dobson and added depth with new contracts for goalies and forwards. As the Canadiens aim for a playoff return, they acknowledge the challenges ahead while remaining optimistic about their improved roster.