The NHL Offseason Progress Report
As the NHL offseason rolls on, it's time to analyze each team's moves thus far, offering grades that reflect their offseason strategies and decisions. While some teams have made notable strides, others have left fans wondering about their direction. With trades and free agent signings still available until the regular season kicks off, these grades serve as a preliminary report on each team's performance during the offseason.
Anaheim Ducks: A Tough Offseason
General manager Pat Verbeek seems to be having a rough time navigating the offseason. Faced with salary cap complications, the Ducks were forced to make Leo Carlsson the highest-paid player in the NHL due to an offer sheet situation. Additionally, securing Pavel Mintyukov's extension was rushed to avoid more offer sheets, while Cutter Gauthier also awaits his payday. Despite these maneuvers, the Ducks have not addressed their defensive issues, as they continue to struggle with a unit that allowed 2.91 expected goals against per 60 minutes of 5-on-5 play last season. The signing of A.J. Greer, with his four-year contract costing $17 million, doesn’t seem to significantly improve the squad’s defensive woes. Unless improvements come soon, the Ducks face a challenging season ahead.
Boston Bruins: Flaws in Defense
The Bruins' offseason activities have raised eyebrows, particularly focusing on their defense. Although trading for JJ Peterka could mark an offensive upgrade, the roster remains a concern, especially after allowing 2.93 expected goals per 60 minutes in 2025-26, ranking them 29th overall. They've attempted to remedy these issues by signing Connor Clifton and trading for Will Borgen, but whether this will strengthen their defensive lineup remains uncertain. All eyes will be on starting goalie Jeremy Swayman to mask the lingering defensive flaws.
Chicago Blackhawks: Risky Moves
After trading for Bowen Byram and securing a hefty contract for him, the Blackhawks have made a splash this offseason. While the investment in Byram could potentially turn out well, there’s skepticism regarding his ability to become the franchise-changing defenseman they hope for. Coupled with limited transactions aside from the Byram deal, the Blackhawks still face numerous gaps in their roster. The Connor Bedard era requires a stronger foundational team now more than ever, and the offseason actions haven’t adequately reflected that need.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Seeking More Offense
Columbus appears to have made slight improvements, notably smoothing tensions with defenseman Zach Werenski and adding Valeri Nichushkin to their forward lineup. However, offensive depth is still a pressing concern. With significant salary cap space yet to be utilized and uncertainties surrounding restricted free agents Adam Fantilli and Cole Sillinger, the Blue Jackets will need to act promptly to bolster their offensive capabilities.
Dallas Stars: Uncertain Future
The Stars find themselves in a precarious situation largely dependent on the outcome of Jason Robertson’s restricted free agency. With traded assets and salary cap challenges, the offseason has left fans in a state of uncertainty. The potential loss of their top forward only compounds the pressure on general manager Jim Nill to secure the right deals.
Detroit Red Wings: In Transition
The Red Wings are in a state of flux, particularly with the request from captain Dylan Larkin for a trade. The team's restructuring will depend on who takes over as general manager after Steve Yzerman's shift to an advisory role. They've made some solid additions but face serious questions about their overall competitiveness following a disappointing previous season.
Florida Panthers: Strength in Depth
Amidst a tumultuous offseason, the Panthers made a key addition in Brady Tkachuk. This acquisition enhances the physicality and chaos potential of their playstyle. However, questions remain regarding their goaltending position and whether they have sufficiently addressed the depth needed to make a deeper playoff run.
New Jersey Devils: Taking Steps Forward
General manager Sunny Mehta has kicked off a promising tenure with strategic moves that have improved the roster. The signing of Nico Hischier on a long-term deal is particularly notable, while adding Evan Rodrigues and Anthony Mantha increases their offensive depth. The goaltending remains a central question, but the overall progress looks encouraging.
New York Rangers: Well-Executed Moves
Chris Drury has made significant moves, most notably acquiring Pavel Dorofeyev, a forward with a proven scoring track record. The Rangers also reinforced their defense significantly with Sean Durzi and Marcus Pettersson. These transactions position New York favorably for the upcoming season and could finally ignite hope for a deep playoff run.
Washington Capitals: Aggressive Offseason
The Capitals have displayed a commendable aggressive approach to upgrading their forward line, welcoming Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, and Boone Jenner among their ranks. While Tuch’s contract may become a concern down the line, the immediate enhancement in offensive capabilities is clear. With valuable pieces like Alex Ovechkin back in action, the Capitals are aiming for a resurgence this year.
Evaluating the Overall Landscape
There’s still time for teams to improve their rosters before the regular season begins. The evaluative grades are based on current moves, and many franchises may find new opportunities to solidify positions in the next few months. As the dust settles on the offseason, the individual decisions made by each team will be crucial in determining their success when the puck drops.
