The Tampa Bay Lightning are taking a cautious approach to free agency, with GM Julien BriseBois indicating they won't be overly active. They'll leverage their cap space for more internal competition but don’t expect major moves. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche are exploring options in the trade market, particularly regarding UFA Erik Johnson, as they find limited value in the current free agent pool. The Montreal Canadiens, on the other hand, acknowledge they won’t perfect their lineup in a single offseason. GM Kent Hughes is still seeking a second-line center and is evaluating potential trades involving players like Brendan Gallagher and Mike Matheson. The Canadiens have pivoted from pursuing a trade for Jordan Kyrou to discussing deals involving Zach Bolduc and Logan Mailloux instead.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have opted not to qualify forward Pontus Holmberg prior to the July 1 free agency deadline, allowing him to become a free agent. The Tampa Bay Lightning quickly signed Holmberg to a two-year contract valued at $3.1 million. The deal averages $1.55 million per year, marking the end of Holmberg's tenure with the Leafs where he scored 49 points in 159 games since being drafted in the sixth round in 2018.

General Manager Brad Treliving cited arbitration concerns as a key reason for not qualifying Holmberg, stating they couldn’t agree on a suitable number. With the Leafs having filled all 23 roster spots, they currently have $4.98 million in cap space remaining. Holmberg's performance last season included 19 points in 68 games, but he was scratched during the playoffs, casting uncertainty on his future.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have secured forward Gage Goncalves with a two-year contract averaging $1.2 million per year. The 24-year-old British Columbia native made his NHL debut on January 11, 2024, and has since played 62 games, showing promise with 20 points in his first full season. He tied for the rookie lead in goals and led in assists among Lightning rookies. In the playoffs, Goncalves notched four points in five games, showcasing his potential in high-stakes situations.

Nashville Predators General Manager Barry Trotz has secured defenseman Nick Perbix with a two-year, $5.5 million contract. Perbix, who played three seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, achieved career highs last season with six goals and 19 points. His performance was bolstered by an impressive +8 rating and significant contributions in shot blocking and physicality, averaging 14:41 on ice time per game. With a track record of consistent play, Perbix's addition aims to enhance the Predators' defensive unit.

Selected 169th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, Perbix has amassed 63 points in 220 games with the Lightning. His collegiate career at St. Cloud State was highlighted by accolades, including recognition on the NCHC's First All-Star Team. Notably, Perbix has represented Team USA at the Olympics and World Championship, showcasing his caliber on an international stage. The Predators are banking on his leadership and experience to fortify their back end.

The Nashville Predators have bolstered their defense by signing Nick Perbix, a 27-year-old former Tampa Bay Lightning player, to a two-year contract worth $5.5 million. Perbix, who was drafted in the sixth round by Tampa in 2017, has recorded 13 goals and 50 assists in 220 NHL games, proving to be a capable bottom-pairing defenseman. His addition adds depth to a Predators' blue line already featuring notable players like Roman Josi and Brady Skjei. With Perbix's cap hit set at $2.75 million, the Predators are left with approximately $9.3 million in salary cap space for the coming season, allowing for further roster enhancements.