Declan Chisholm has inked a two-year contract worth $3.2 million with the Washington Capitals, averaging $1.6 million annually. This move comes after his recent trade from the Minnesota Wild, where he showcased his defensive skills, particularly excelling in shot attempt percentages and takeaways among his peers. Chisholm's offensive contributions also made an impression, finishing with 12 points in 66 games last season. With a promising start to his career and prior experience with the Winnipeg Jets, he aims to bolster the Capitals' blue line.

Washington Capitals' President Brian MacLellan anticipates a quieter offseason compared to the previous year's frenzy. As free agency approaches, the organization is strategically shaping its roster for a future beyond Alex Ovechkin, who is in the last year of his contract. The Capitals recently added five prospects during the NHL draft, with at least one player, Milton Gastrin, expressing his excitement to join a team he admired as a child. However, with $9.38 million in cap space and four pending unrestricted free agents, including Taylor Raddysh and Andrew Mangiapane, tough choices lie ahead. The Capitals may struggle to compete for top-tier free agents like Mitch Marner, pushing them to consider alternative strategies for roster improvements.

The Buffalo Sabres are actively exploring trade options for defenseman Bowen Byram. General Manager Kevyn Adams indicated that conversations with Byram's agent will continue soon. While a trade remains a possibility, there is an openness to a one- or two-year contract as a solid move for Byram to play alongside star defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals are assessing their roster depth after acquiring Declan Chisholm, which may affect Alexander Alexeyev’s future with the team. The Minnesota Wild are still undecided on Chase Priskie's contract situation as they aim to bolster their blue line.

Trade talks are also heating up around Isaac Howard of the Tampa Bay Lightning, as GM Julien BriseBois expressed the need for patience due to ongoing negotiations that have not yet yielded an agreement.

The Minnesota Wild have made a strategic move by trading for Chase Priskie, a defenseman who is set to become an unrestricted free agent. The Wild acquired Priskie and a 2025 draft pick from the Washington Capitals in exchange for Declan Chisholm and a later draft pick. Priskie, who performed well in the AHL this past season with 12 goals and 23 assists for the Hershey Bears, brings valuable experience and depth to Minnesota's blue line.

Originally drafted in the sixth round by the Capitals, Priskie boasts a solid AHL career with 164 points in 314 games. He also has postseason experience, having contributed significantly during a Calder Cup run. The trade reflects the Wild's aim to bolster their defense as they look ahead to the next season.

As negotiations heat up for Evan Bouchard following Noah Dobson's recent $9.5 million signing, reports indicate that the Edmonton Oilers defenseman is poised to secure a deal exceeding $10 million annually. The Oilers might prefer a long-term agreement of eight years to avoid a costlier deal down the line.

Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are actively exploring improvements to their forward lineup. General Manager Kent Hughes hinted at potential trades or free-agent signings, expressing uncertainty but determination in achieving roster enhancements. In Washington, the Capitals are busy strategizing extensions for promising youngsters Connor McMichael and Martin Fehervary, with possible announcements expected soon as their contracts enter the final year.