As the NHL approaches critical offseason dates, potential tampering issues loom large, particularly between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Vegas Golden Knights regarding star forward Mitch Marner. Reports suggest the Leafs might file a tampering complaint should Marner sign with Vegas, stirring concerns among general managers about the league's readiness to impose severe penalties. Elliotte Friedman notes that GMs believe the NHL is eager to make an example out of any offending teams.

Additionally, two teams, the Seattle Kraken and Tampa Bay Lightning, have recently placed Joe Veleno and Conor Sheary on unconditional waivers, respectively, as part of their decisions to buy them out. This move comes as Sheary seeks a chance to secure an NHL spot amidst Tampa Bay's salary cap constraints, highlighting the financial strategies teams must navigate in today's competitive landscape.