NHL Executives Gather in Buffalo
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Last week, the atmosphere at Panorama on Seven, a hotel restaurant adjacent to KeyBank Center, was electric. Crowds filled every table, drawn not just by the venue’s impressive views of Buffalo’s skyline and captivating sunsets, but also by a convergence of influential personalities from the hockey world. Agents, executives, and general managers from various NHL teams mingled, creating a vibrant backdrop for discussions and negotiations.
“I feel like I f—ing live here.”
Amid this bustling scene, NHL super agent Pat Brisson was spotted sharing lunch with several general managers, while representatives from the Toronto Maple Leafs were seen discussing strategies with agents. Not to miss the opportunity for networking, Tampa Bay’s Julian BriseBois and other GMs engaged in discreet talks away from the media spotlight. As night fell, the restaurant transformed once more for drinks, with new conversations shaping the offseason landscape.
Strategic Offseasons Ahead
This annual pilgrimage of NHL executives to Buffalo coincides with the scouting combine, a key event where top prospects undergo evaluations ahead of the entry draft. However, the current season is particularly unique, as many teams are entering the offseason with significant salary cap space and a lackluster free-agent pool, compelling front offices to strategize differently. Most NHL teams arrived earlier than usual, fully engaged in the intense negotiations.
Here’s a look at the nine teams identified as having the most captivating offseasons ahead, along with insights into their potential moves and challenges:
Anaheim Ducks
General Manager Pat Verbeek is keen on making impactful decisions to revitalize the franchise after seven seasons without playoff contention. The Ducks showed promise last season, improving from 59 to 80 points and featuring young talents like Leo Carlsson. With around $25 million in cap space post-re-signing restricted free agents, speculation swirls that Anaheim may pursue star player Mitch Marner, potentially with an offer that would exceed the current top salary of $14 million held by Leon Draisaitl.
Buffalo Sabres
Frustrations are palpable in Buffalo following an NHL-record 14 years absent from the playoffs. The Sabres face trade rumors surrounding key players, including Alex Tuch, who has one year left on his contract before becoming a UFA. After a stellar 36-goal season, Tuch’s future hangs in the balance, and his potential departure could force GM Kevyn Adams‘ hand. Likewise, RFAs Bowen Byram and J.J. Peterka require careful handling to avoid further setbacks.
Carolina Hurricanes
In Carolina, the Hurricanes are keenly aware of their Cup-or-bust mentality, coming off a strong 99-point season that saw them reach the conference finals. With $28 million in cap space, GM Eric Tulsky will be tasked with the challenge of enhancing their roster, particularly in search of a top-four defenseman and possibly a star player like Marner.
Florida Panthers
Florida’s situation is delicate, especially with forwards like Sam Bennett projected to stay, but they face tough decisions with impending UFAs like Aaron Ekblad and Brad Marchand. GM Bill Zito‘s decisions will greatly impact their roster’s strength moving forward.
Los Angeles Kings
Ken Holland, newly at the helm of the Kings, was seen engaging with Brisson about securing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov, a player with impressive performance metrics. Teams anticipate that Gavrikov could fetch a significant payday in free agency amid rising salary caps. Meanwhile, Holland is expected to pursue bold moves in an effort to propel the Kings towards championship contention.
New York Rangers
The Rangers are facing constraints as they juggle contracts for RFAs K’Andre Miller and Will Cuylle, limiting their overall flexibility. With only $8 million available and several players weighing on their roster, a shift appears imminent, potentially involving veteran Chris Kreider or even discussions surrounding Artemi Panarin‘s future with the club.
Arizona Coyotes
For the Arizona Coyotes, completing their offense is the priority after a near-playoff run with a 90-point campaign last year. With over $20 million in cap space and youth on their side, they are positioned to make aggressive moves for offensive firepower, eyeing talents like Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Finally, the Maple Leafs are working hard to balance their roster as well, targeting both defensive upgrades and potential centers while managing early negotiations with UFA Max Pacioretty. Success hinges on executing smart deals that can enhance their core, especially considering the offseason changes surrounding star player contracts.
Future Considerations
On a broader scale, an impending collective bargaining agreement promises to finalize adjustments between the NHL and NHLPA as teams brace for new salary cap guidelines effective within the next two seasons. The hope is for a smooth transition that not only safeguards the league’s future but also respects its competitive balance.
