Key trades impact NHL landscape for 2026-27 season
Key trades this summer reshape NHL rosters ahead of 2026-27 season. Discover impactful moves by teams and players.
Buffalo Sabres make strategic moves
The Buffalo Sabres, fresh off their first playoff appearance in 14 years, continued their trend of reshaping their roster this off-season. They traded Bowen Byram to the Chicago Blackhawks for the fourth overall pick in the 2026 draft. To fill Byram’s void, Buffalo acquired Olen Zellweger from the Anaheim Ducks shortly after. Zellweger’s contract offers a cost-effective alternative, allowing the Sabres to lock down Zach Benson with a seven-year deal worth $7.5 million per season.
Calgary Flames pursue future talent
In a surprising move amidst their ongoing rebuild, the Calgary Flames acquired Simon Nemec, the second overall pick from the 2022 draft, from the New Jersey Devils. This acquisition came alongside a five-year contract valued at $7.25 million per season. The Flames appear committed to aggressively pursuing talent as they prepare for a new arena’s opening in the 2027-28 season.
Capitals bolster forward depth
Washington Capitals general manager Chris Patrick has been proactive in enhancing his team’s offensive power. His notable acquisitions included forward Jordan Kyrou from the St. Louis Blues and Alex Tuch in a sign-and-trade deal with the Sabres. These moves significantly deepen the Capitals’ forward unit, positioning them as one of the more formidable groups in the league.
Rangers make a gamble with Dorofeyev
The New York Rangers added scoring prowess by signing Pavel Dorofeyev, a player with back-to-back 35-goal seasons, to a seven-year, $77 million contract. However, this move raises questions, as the Rangers were 21 points off a playoff berth last season and previously sold off key assets. The long-term impact of this signing appears to simply prolong the inevitable need for a complete rebuild.
Montreal Canadiens set up for future
The Montreal Canadiens, expected to be active in the trade market, made their most significant off-season move by signing Ivan Demidov. General manager Kent Hughes indicated that this contract was a crucial step in shaping the team’s future, which aims to build competitiveness and stability moving forward.
Reporting for this story draws on Sportsnet.
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